Willie Nelson, the country singer-songwriter (and well-known consumer of cannabis), has revealed plans to launch a branded chain of marijuana dispensaries and related products, including signature strains of pot. Dubbed “Willie’s Reserve,” the brand is expected to start formulating plans in the next year. Nelson spokesman Michael Bowman told The Daily Beast that the operation is going to “be something that’s reflective of (Nelson’s) passion” for cannabis.

At a time when legalized marijuana is already a $2.2 billion business, Nelson is far from the first celebrity to eye the branded cannabis model. Last year, the family of reggae legend Bob Marley announced plans to create a line of pot products, including “heirloom Jamaican cannabis.”

Plus, with more than 20 states now having legalized marijuana for recreational or medical use, cannabis chains are starting to emerge. In Colorado, for example, a chain called Native Roots has locations in more than a half-dozen cities, with additional ones coming soon.  [Read more at MarketWatch]