Worcester Business Journal

8 Worcester Business Journal | August 19, 2024 | wbjournal.com 4 0 U N D E R F O R T Y In a city where some of the most well-capitalized cannabis com- panies on the planet have struggled to keep their doors open, Worcester's Alex Mazin has created a homegrown cannabis com- pany that has connected with the local community. Opened in October 2020, Bud's Goods & Provisions cut through the noise by presenting Worcester cannabis consumers with a uniquely designed storefront and an in-house line of branded products, successfully competing with publicly traded corporations in terms of both store aesthetics and price points. While conventional industry wisdom was consumers preferred large nuggets of cannabis flower, Mazin realized a business opportunity in marketing to shoppers who were more focused on cost than size, launching a line of affordable flower products featuring smaller pieces of cannabis, branded as Lil' Buds. Led by Mazin's perseverance and patience, Bud's Goods has created more than 100 jobs in Massachusetts, growing with additional dispensaries in Abington and Watertown and a product packaging facility in Lakeville, with Mazin keeping his eyes on future expansion. He hasn't forgotten his humble beginnings as the son of Soviet-born immi- grant parents, finding time to make donations assisting newcomers to Worcester and volunteering at local food pantries. – E.C. What superpower would you most like to have? The superpowers of Dr. Charles Xavier from X-Men. What is the hidden gem of Central Massachusetts? Classics like New England Roast Beef. I always loved going to that place. Still do. What piece of advice guides you? My priority is to keep the people around me happy and healthy, so everything else is just a bonus. Your next goal? Become the country's largest pre-rolled joint producer Class of 2024 Alex Mazin, 36 President & CEO Bud's Goods & Provisions, in Worcester Residence: Norfolk County, Massachusetts Birthplace: Belarus College: Babson College Leaders and institutions turn to Wright again and again not just because he takes great photographs, but because of how he does it. With respect, kindness, and curiosity, he builds trust with the people he photographs – whether it's a CEO, a classroom of students, or an athlete. Owner of Wright Photo Studios in Worcester, his portfolio includes area colleges such as Worcester State University and College of the Holy Cross, the local hospital settings of UMass Memorial Health in Worcester and Tufts University's Cummings Veterinary Center in North Grafton, and Worcester businesses like Table Talk Pies and The Hanover The- atre. Wright recounts the decision to go into business for himself and believes his trait to success is resilience, carrying him through challenging times. Now, he has a commercial space with two offices and a studio inside the Printer's Building in Worcester. He offers his experiences and advice to young photographers be- ginning their journey and gives back to his alma mater, Worcester State University, by funding an academic achievement award for a student aspiring to pursue a career in journalism. – S.B. Would you rather travel back in time to meet your ancestors or to the future to meet your descendants? My ancestors, so I could learn how decisions they made affect me now. Where is your go-to restaurant for a business lunch? Not Ya Mama's Vegan Cafe or Chashu Ramen & Izakaya What message would you deliver to incoming college fresh- men? Plans change, so stay open to new opportunities. Don't be afraid to ask for help, and stay in touch with the connections you make. Class of 2024 Matt Wright, 37 Owner Wright Photo Studios, in Worcester Residence: Worcester Birthplace: Worcester Colleges: Worcester State University, Boston University PHOTO | JAIME FLORES Buds Goods & Provisions, in Worcester

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