Kentucky vape ban forces local business to adapt – The Advocate-Messenger

josely.labarrere@bluegrassnewsmedia.com

The recent statewide ban on vape products in Kentucky has had a significant impact on local businesses, with CBD Etc reporting a 25% decline in revenue since the legislation took effect. The ban, which aims to curb the use of vaping products, has removed what many consider an essential option for both recreational and medicinal cannabis users.

“Vaping is the most bioavailable and fastest way for CBD or THC to be absorbed into the system, providing instant and effective relief for certain conditions,” said the owner of CBD Etc. “Many people rely on vapes for medicinal purposes, and for some, THC edibles simply don’t work. This ban has taken away an important option for consumers.”

While the business grapples with the financial fallout, the owner is determined to adapt without compromising the store’s values. Potential strategies include restructuring operations, repurposing the shop space, hosting more community events like paint parties, and expanding the selection of health foods. However, the owner remains firm on one point: they will not stock high-demand products that conflict with their commitment to customer safety.

“Our priority is keeping our customers safe and healthy. That’s a line we won’t cross,” they said.

Adapting with alternatives

Despite the loss of vape products, CBD Etc is offering fast-acting alternatives to meet customers’ needs.

“If you’re looking for fast-acting, highly bioavailable options, we are always stocked on seltzers and water-soluble products, which are the second most bioavailable way to consume cannabinoids,” the owner explained. “These options provide quicker absorption than edibles and are a great alternative to vapes.”

A commitment to compliance and community

Even as the shop navigates these changes, the owner emphasizes the importance of legal compliance—not just for the business but for the safety of employees and customers alike.

“I have a responsibility to my employees. Three amazing women depend on this shop, and I won’t put them at risk,” the owner said. “While we may not agree with all laws, that doesn’t mean we can ignore them. It means we need to work toward change.”

They acknowledge that regulations play a necessary role in preventing misuse but believe that outright bans can be counterproductive. “It feels like a mix of laziness and a personal agenda,” they added.

Expanding beyond CBD

CBD Etc has long been more than just a wellness shop. The business actively supports the local art community by featuring consignment work from Danville artists. Plans are underway to create an online platform to showcase local art to a global audience. Additionally, the owner, now a licensed real estate agent, intends to display local artwork in homes during open houses to increase exposure for local artists.

The shop also houses the Tiny Café, offering fresh, dye-free, preservative-free options like salads, smoothies, and smoothie bowls. Customers can customize their orders with additives like cannabinoids, kratom, kava, functional mushrooms, or adaptogens—or enjoy them as-is.

What sets CBD Etc apart

CBD Etc differentiates itself through its focus on education and product safety. First-time customers receive detailed guidance on dosing, usage, and cannabinoid effects. Every product on the shelves is third-party lab-tested, with additional verification to ensure authenticity.

“We do not deal in synthetic cannabinoids or questionable mushroom products,” the owner stressed. “Everything we sell is thoroughly researched because quality and safety come first.”

The shop even goes beyond industry standards when it comes to kratom, personally drug-testing each batch for adulterants in addition to third-party lab tests.

How the community can help

As CBD Etc navigates the challenges posed by the vape ban, the owner encourages community support in any form.

“The most direct way to support us is to shop with us—whether that’s purchasing our products, grabbing a bite at the Tiny Café, or checking out the local art we feature,” they said.

For those unable to make purchases, simple actions like following the business on social media, sharing posts, or recommending the shop to friends can make a significant difference. The shop also offers free local delivery in Danville and ships products nationwide.

“Thank you for supporting us through these changes,” the owner said. “We’re here for our community, and we appreciate you being here for us.”