News Summary
Gold Spectrum is expanding its operations in Bristol, Tennessee, aiming to meet growing customer demand amid new THC regulations. The company is investing $750,000 to renovate a facility, adding 100 jobs with competitive wages and benefits. Despite potential challenges from new legislation set to limit THC concentrations, Gold Spectrum’s founder expresses optimism about the wholesale hemp market. The company is also advocating for regulations that support business sustainability while ensuring the health concerns of consumers are addressed.
Bristol, Tennessee
Gold Spectrum is expanding its operations in Bristol, Tennessee, with the aim of meeting increasing customer demand amid stricter THC regulations affecting the industry. The company, which processes and packages THC products, currently employs about 250 individuals and is looking to hire an additional 100 employees as part of its growth strategy.
To support its expansion, Gold Spectrum has invested $750,000 in renovations of the former Holston Valley Middle School building, which it purchased in April. The upgrades are expected to improve working conditions for employees and enhance operational efficiency. This new facility will officially open with a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for July 22.
Gold Spectrum’s job offerings vary significantly, with entry-level production associates starting at $14.50 per hour, while team captains and managers can earn over $20 per hour. In addition to competitive wages, the company provides health insurance and paid time off, making the positions attractive to prospective employees.
In the evolving regulatory landscape of Tennessee, Gold Spectrum is preparing for new legislation that will take effect on January 1, 2026. This law will limit THC concentrations to less than 0.3%, which industry representatives warn could significantly impact the retail cannabis market and potentially drive retailers out of business due to decreased profitability stemming from limited product offerings. Despite these challenges, Gold Spectrum’s founder, Zack Green, remains optimistic about the market for wholesale hemp-derived products, believing it will remain stable.
Gold Spectrum has been actively engaging with legislators to illustrate the economic impact of their operations and emphasize the importance of a viable retail sector. The company’s public relations officer, Neal Osborne, expressed confidence that regulators will understand the need for balanced laws that consider both health concerns and the realities of the market.
Many of Gold Spectrum’s customers utilize hemp-derived products for various purposes, including health conditions, relaxation, and wellness. The company offers an array of products, including edibles and smokable forms of THC, appealing to a diverse consumer base. In light of upcoming regulations, Gold Spectrum has been collaborating with the Tennessee Healthy Alternative Association, a lobbying group focused on influencing legislative outcomes regarding hemp product rules.
Among its priorities, Gold Spectrum desires to see THC regulations revert to oversight by the Department of Agriculture rather than the Alcohol and Beverage Commission. The company is focused on maintaining favorable conditions for its business model while ensuring compliance with any legal changes that may pose challenges to their operational framework.
Despite the uncertain regulatory landscape, Gold Spectrum has reported a net increase of over ten employees, indicating a commitment to growth and stability within their workforce. The facility operates six days a week to meet the continuous demand for their products, with ongoing shipments ensuring that retailers across more than 40 states have consistent access to their offerings.
As Gold Spectrum navigates these regulatory changes and anticipates growth opportunities, the company’s focus remains on expanding its reach while advocating for fair regulations that support both the business and its customer base.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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New Legislation Impacts Tennessee’s Hemp Industry
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Additional Resources
- WJHL News: Relocated Cannabis Company
- Wikipedia: Cannabis in Tennessee
- Knox News: Tennessee Restrictions
- Google Search: Tennessee Cannabis Laws
- Trulieve Dispensary
- Google Scholar: Cannabis Industry Tennessee
- WKRN News: Hemp Marijuana Confusion
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cannabis Regulations
- Herald Courier: Business News
- Google News: Hemp Industry Updates
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
