
Haze Labs: who are we?
Haze Labs: The Groundbreaking Pioneer of Cannabis Culture in Wales and the UK
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In August 2023, Haze Labs made waves as the first-ever legal cannabis lounge and club to open in Wales, and one of the very first in the UK. Founded by Jay-Paul Jones, this pioneering establishment is not just a business; it’s a cultural landmark, heralding a new era of cannabis consumption and community in the region. As one of the earliest examples of a fully legal cannabis lounge and club, Haze Labs has set a new precedent for the cannabis industry in Wales and beyond.
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A Unique and Innovative Model: Public Shopfront and Private Lounge / Club
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Haze Labs operates on a revolutionary dual model, offering both a public shopfront and an exclusive private lounge / club, catering to a wide range of customers, from casual visitors to dedicated enthusiasts.
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The public-facing shopfront serves as a traditional headshop, stocked with everything you’d expect from a well-established cannabis lifestyle store. Here, customers can find everything from premium accessories, smoking tools, clothing, and snacks, to hot drinks and light bites. But it’s not just about shopping—it’s about creating a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere where people can relax and take in the surroundings. The seating area invites people to stop for a brew and unwind, whether they’re passing by or just enjoying the ambiance.
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But the heart of Haze Labs lies behind the shopfront, where the private lounge / club offers a completely different experience. Reserved exclusively for members who pay an annual fee, the lounge / club is a spacious, comfortable, and private sanctuary designed for cannabis consumption and socialising.
Members are provided with an environment that prioritises safety, privacy, and comfort—qualities that are often lacking in traditional public spaces. The lounge features cosy breakfast bar tables, larger sharing tables for social gatherings, and a dedicated gaming area for members to enjoy.
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This dual experience—of a public space and a private club—allows Haze Labs to serve a wide variety of people, all while maintaining a focus on responsible consumption and community.
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Membership: Exclusive Access to Privacy and Perks
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The annual membership to Haze Labs provides far more than just access to a space to consume cannabis. The benefits are designed to offer members a premium experience while reinforcing the values of privacy, security, and inclusivity. Membership gives individuals exclusive access to the private lounge / club, ensuring a comfortable and confidential environment for those who prefer a more secluded cannabis experience.
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Additionally, members enjoy discounts on selected products sold in the shopfront, making it not only a space for consumption but also a place where they can access premium products at more affordable rates. But perhaps one of the biggest draws is the calendar of exciting events and activities that members can participate in, including educational workshops, live music, movie nights, gaming tournaments, comedy shows, and more. Haze Labs also takes the concept of community to the next level, offering member-exclusive trips and social activities, such as camping trips, which help foster a strong sense of camaraderie and shared experiences.
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Community Engagement and Education
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Beyond providing a space to consume cannabis, Haze Labs is deeply committed to education and community engagement. The lounge / club regularly hosts events designed to educate both members and the general public about cannabis, its benefits, and responsible usage. These events include everything from hands-on workshops about cannabis culture and consumption techniques to talks by industry advocates and cannabis professionals.
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Haze Labs also engages with local influencers, brands, and advocates who share their values, collaborating on events, product launches, and campaigns that help break the stigma around cannabis use. By doing so, Haze Labs continues to build a community centred around responsible cannabis consumption, education, and collaboration.
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Overcoming Challenges and Achievements
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Opening Haze Labs was not without its challenges. From the beginning, the stigma surrounding cannabis use posed a significant hurdle, with some members of the public—along with local authorities—expressing skepticism about the concept of a cannabis lounge and club. Early on, police scrutiny was intense, with officers frequently monitoring the establishment. However, through consistent engagement, education, and transparency, Haze Labs was able to gain the trust of local authorities. Over time, this led to a shift in the community’s perception, and police support has since grown, particularly with the cooperation of South Wales Police (Mountain Ash).
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One of Jay-Paul's proudest achievements is seeing the success of Haze Labs inspire others to follow suit. Many aspiring entrepreneurs have reached out for guidance, and thanks to the support and mentorship offered by Haze Labs, several new cannabis lounges and clubs have opened in Wales and across the UK. By helping others create their own cannabis spaces, Haze Labs has played a crucial role in expanding the cannabis culture and fostering a supportive community.
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Looking Ahead: Expanding the Vision
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As of the future, Haze Labs continues to lead the way in the UK’s cannabis scene, with plans to expand its offerings and explore new opportunities. The team behind Haze Labs views the establishment as just the beginning—a prototype for future cannabis lounges and clubs across the UK. Future plans include exploring new services and enhancing the members' experience.
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Conclusion: Shaping the Future of Cannabis Culture
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Haze Labs is much more than a cannabis lounge and club—it’s a movement. As the first of its kind in Wales and the UK, it has set the stage for a new chapter in cannabis culture, one where community, education, and responsible consumption are prioritised. The establishment has become a symbol of what’s possible in the cannabis space, showing that lounges and clubs can be places of connection, education, and fun. As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, Haze Labs will undoubtedly remain at the forefront, paving the way for others to follow and proving that cannabis culture can be safe, welcoming, and inclusive for everyone.