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Upstate Elevator is doubling down on its commitment to Vermont, the hemp and cannabis industry, and its community roots with the opening of a new, purpose-built 10,000 sq. ft. manufacturing campus in Burlington’s vibrant South End Arts District. This expansion comes at a pivotal moment for the hemp industry, as federal regulations for hemp remain in flux. Upstate Elevator is moving forward with conviction, demonstrating resilience, vision, and a steadfast belief in the future of clean crafted CBD and THC products.
A Hub for Innovation and Community
Nestled among locally-owned breweries, restaurants and maker spaces, Upstate Elevator’s new campus is more than just a manufacturing facility. It’s a dynamic blend of production, retail, and community engagement, housing both Upstate Elevator Dispensary, and its state-of-the-art manufacturing operations. This integration reflects Upstate’s commitment to community-driven growth by supporting local artists, fostering neighborhood connections, and contributing to Burlington’s unique cultural fabric.
Expanding with Conviction Amid Regulatory Uncertainty
While the hemp industry faces potential changes, including a federal bill that could impose stricter THC limits on hemp-derived products, Upstate Elevator is investing in the future. The new facility is a testament to the company’s long-term commitment to Vermont, the hemp and cannabis category, and building a resilient, fully compliant business. By expanding now, Upstate is positioning itself to adapt to regulatory shifts while continuing to deliver high-quality, innovative products.
Purpose-Built for Growth and Compliance
Upstate Elevator’s new campus is designed to support scalable growth across both THC and hemp product lines. The facility is:
FDA-Registered: Ensuring adherence to rigorous quality and safety standards.
Licensed by the Vermont Cannabis Control Board: For adult-use THC and hemp manufacturing.
USDA Organically Certified: By Vermont Organic Farmers, underscoring Upstate’s commitment to clean, organic ingredients.
Strategic Vertical Integration
With end-to-end control from formulation to production to distribution, Upstate Elevator’s vertical integration enables:
Higher product quality and consistency
Improved margins and faster innovation cycles
Reduced reliance on third-party manufacturers
Increased supply chain resilience
This expansion further cements Upstate’s leadership in the cannabis and hemp consumer packaged goods (CPG) space, ensuring the company can respond quickly to market demands and regulatory changes.
Economic Impact & Job Creation
The new facility isn’t just an investment in infrastructure; it is an investment in Vermont’s economy and workforce. Upstate Elevator’s expansion brings new skilled manufacturing jobs to the state, reinforcing the company’s commitment to supporting local talent and contributing to the region’s economic vitality.
Designed for Efficiency with VMEC Partnership
Upstate Elevator partnered with the Vermont Manufacturing Extension Center (VMEC) to develop a facility layout that maximizes productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness. VMEC’s expert consulting and operational support have helped ensure that the new campus is built to the highest standards of modern manufacturing.
Built on LEAN Manufacturing Principles
The facility is optimized using LEAN manufacturing—a methodology focused on minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency. This approach emphasizes:
Streamlined workflows
Reduced downtime
Continuous improvement
The result? Faster production cycles, higher product consistency, and lower operational costs, all of which translate to better products and value for Upstate Elevator’s customers.
Looking Ahead
As the hemp and cannabis landscape continues to evolve, Upstate Elevator remains committed to leading with integrity, innovation, and community focus. The new Burlington campus is more than just a building; it is a symbol of Upstate’s belief in a bright, sustainable future for Vermont’s hemp and cannabis industry.
