INSA operates as a vertically integrated cannabis company with locations across five states: Massachusetts, Florida, Connecticut, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. The brand currently runs multiple dispensaries including flagship locations in Springfield, Salem, Easthampton, and Avon in Massachusetts, plus expanding operations in Tampa, Clearwater, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, and other Florida markets.Their comprehensive product portfolio spans premium flower, concentrates, edibles, pre-rolls, vaporizers, tinctures, and topicals. INSA's signature offerings include their award-winning Clementine Sativa Vape, machine-packed pre-rolls filled with hand-trimmed whole flower, and artisanal chocolate edibles made with imported European chocolate and real fruit.The company maintains strict quality standards through their cultivation, extraction, and manufacturing processes, utilizing advanced machinery and meticulous attention to detail at every step. Their cultivation team, led by master growers Frank Golfieri and Kevin Sparks, focuses on developing exclusive cultivars alongside classic strains. In the kitchen, Chef Julian Rose brings 40 years of chocolatier experience to create premium edible products that set INSA apart in the competitive cannabis market.
INSA's story begins with childhood friends Pete Gallagher and Pat Gottschlicht, who grew up together in Springfield, Massachusetts. After college, their paths diverged - Pat took over his family's German restaurant in Chicopee while Pete moved to New York City to manage equity funds. However, the demanding world of finance eventually brought Pete back home with an entrepreneurial vision.In 2013, the duo founded INSA with a straightforward mission: to help more people have better days more often. What started as two friends with a shared passion for cannabis has evolved into a multi-state operation serving thousands of customers across Massachusetts, Florida, Connecticut, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.The company opened its first dispensary in 2017 and has since expanded strategically, maintaining a hands-on approach to operations. INSA made headlines in 2021 when High Times Magazine named them the most awarded brand in Massachusetts' first-ever Cannabis Cup, taking home awards in multiple categories including their celebrated Clementine Sativa Vape Pen and Double Caramel Sea Salt Chocolate Bar.
INSA's core mission is refreshingly simple yet profound: to help more people have better days more often. This philosophy drives every aspect of their business, from cultivation to customer service.The brand positions itself as "cannabis for real life" - rejecting the mystical or overly clinical approaches common in the industry. Instead, INSA focuses on creating practical, effective products for everyday moments, whether customers need to wind up, calm down, ease ailments, or find something in between.Their commitment extends beyond products to education and accessibility. INSA associates pride themselves on forming genuine relationships with customers, providing personalized guidance that makes cannabis approachable for everyone - from newcomers to experienced users. They believe shopping for cannabis shouldn't feel intimidating, which is why they've redesigned the dispensary experience to be welcoming, educational, and easy to navigate.This customer-centric approach has earned them recognition as industry leaders in both product quality and retail innovation.
At Calm Effect, we're impressed by INSA's authentic approach to cannabis retail. While many brands chase flashy marketing or make grandiose promises, INSA stays grounded in reality - literally calling themselves "cannabis for real life." This honest positioning resonates with everyday consumers who want quality products without the pretense.What sets them apart is their commitment to craft and consistency. From their award-winning vapes to their artisanal chocolates made with imported European ingredients and real fruit, INSA maintains premium standards while keeping prices accessible. Their High Times recognition as Massachusetts' most awarded brand speaks to this quality commitment.We particularly appreciate their customer education focus. INSA associates take time to understand individual needs rather than pushing products, making cannabis accessible for newcomers while satisfying experienced users. Their hands-on approach from the founding duo Pete and Pat ensures authentic experiences across all locations.For deal-seekers, INSA consistently offers competitive pricing on premium products, making quality cannabis affordable for regular consumers.