Paras Chhabra is a name synonymous with innovation, leadership, and success in the fast-evolving cannabis industry. As the CEO of Bodegaboyz LLC, a nationally recognized lifestyle brand, Chhabra has steered the company to impressive heights, solidifying its place as a major player in the market. With a vertically integrated business model, Bodegaboyz boasts a product line that can be found in over 1,000 retail locations across the United States and Canada, including major cannabis hubs such as New York, California, Oklahoma, Toronto, and Missouri.
Chhabra’s journey to becoming a prominent figure in the cannabis industry did not follow a traditional path, yet his eclectic experience has uniquely prepared him for this role. With nearly two decades of experience in retail management and business development, his diverse background offers him a broad perspective on business growth and operational excellence. This wealth of knowledge has allowed him to pioneer new approaches to management and development within the cannabis space.
A Proven Track Record of Business Excellence
Before becoming a key figure in the cannabis world, Paras Chhabra made a significant mark in telecommunications. From 2002 to 2021, he owned and operated 39 Sprint retail stores, leading a workforce of more than 400 employees. Under his guidance, the stores consistently delivered top-tier performance, earning national recognition as top dealerships. His tenure in telecommunications generated over $500 million in sales, a remarkable achievement that highlighted his exceptional business acumen and ability to drive growth.
Chhabra’s role in Sprint extended beyond just sales; he was deeply involved in every facet of business operations, including marketing, finance, customer service, and employee management. His ability to juggle these various aspects of business was a key contributor to his success. His time in telecommunications served as a masterclass in business leadership and operational strategy, lessons that he would later apply to his work in the cannabis industry.
Building the Bodegaboyz Brand
At Bodegaboyz, Chhabra has cultivated a culture of innovation and efficiency. One of the company’s standout achievements is its utilization of cutting-edge technology and artificial intelligence to create a sophisticated backend management system. This technology allows Bodegaboyz to streamline operations, manage inventory, and ensure a seamless customer experience across its retail locations. In an industry known for its regulatory complexities and rapid changes, Chhabra’s emphasis on technological innovation has positioned Bodegaboyz as a forward-thinking company prepared to adapt and thrive.
Under his leadership, Bodegaboyz has grown exponentially, becoming a dominant force in the cannabis market. The company’s success is not just measured by its expansive retail footprint,
but also by the loyalty and connection it fosters with its community of consumers. Chhabra is deeply passionate about fostering these connections, believing that business is about more than just transactions—it’s about creating experiences and building relationships.
Chhabra’s vision for Bodegaboyz is rooted in his commitment to community engagement, fashion, and music. He sees the cannabis industry as more than just a product-driven market; for him, it’s an opportunity to merge culture and lifestyle with business. This unique approach has helped Bodegaboyz stand out in a crowded industry and has solidified its status as a lifestyle brand that resonates with a broad audience.
A Passion for Culture and Community
Beyond his professional achievements, Paras Chhabra has always had a deep connection to fashion, music, and culture. His love for these areas is not just a hobby but an integral part of his identity and business philosophy. In the mid-2000s, Chhabra owned the Northeast distribution rights for Von Dutch, a fashion brand that was at the forefront of streetwear culture at the time. In 2005, he successfully launched the brand’s first store in Soho, New York, marking a significant moment in his fashion career. His work with Von Dutch was a testament to his ability to recognize cultural trends and capitalize on them in a way that resonated with consumers.
Chhabra’s approach to business is holistic, driven by a desire to connect with communities on a deeper level. He believes that business should not be confined to corporate boardrooms, but should be interwoven with the fabric of the culture it serves. This belief is reflected in Bodegaboyz’s ethos, which merges the cannabis lifestyle with elements of music, fashion, and community. Through these connections, Chhabra hopes to create spaces where people can come together and share in unique experiences.
Looking to the Future
As Paras Chhabra continues to guide Bodegaboyz toward greater success, he remains committed to the principles that have driven him throughout his career: innovation, community engagement, and cultural connectivity. His vision for the future of Bodegaboyz is ambitious yet grounded in the values that have brought him this far.
Chhabra is focused on expanding Bodegaboyz’s influence in the cannabis industry while staying true to its roots. He understands that the cannabis market is constantly evolving, and his commitment to staying ahead of the curve through technology and innovation is unwavering. At the same time, his passion for fashion, music, and creating positive community experiences will continue to shape the Bodegaboyz brand.
Paras Chhabra’s journey from telecommunications mogul to cannabis industry leader is a testament to his versatility, resilience, and vision. His work with Bodegaboyz is not just about building a successful business—it’s about creating a lasting impact on culture, community, and the industry at large.
Written in partnership with Tom White.
