How to Unlock the Cartel in Schedule 1

Schedule 1’s patch 0.4.0 brings the big bad cartel, the Benzies, into the game, giving players something to worry about.

If you are continuing an old save file or playing a fresh new game, you might be wondering where the cartel is, and here’s how to unlock them in Schedule 1.

When Do You Unlock the Cartel in Schedule 1?

The Benzies’ family, or the first cartel, unlocks after reaching Westville. Since it is basically their territory, you’ll encounter them quite early in the game.

You’ll receive a message from “Thomas Benzies” regarding a business proposition, and he’ll ask you to meet him at the parking lot of Taco Ticklers. He’ll be inside a black SUV that looks like a G-class Mercedes, which is probably why they are called “Benzies” too.

At this point, you have technically unlocked the cartel already, as long as you get enough customers and reach Westville. There’s a whole storyline related to the Benzies’ family, so this starts their story.

When meeting with Thomas Benzies, he’ll give you a choice to either join the cartel or be an enemy. There is no in between.

If you join the cartel, they take half of your profits, and they’ll require you to sell a specific quantity of products per week.

If you don’t, they’ll make life “very difficult” for you – basically your typical mob movie. You’ll eventually get messages from your dealers saying they’ve been attacked by the Benzies. Sometimes, they’ll successfully defend themselves, your product, and your money. Other times, the Benzies will take everything.

If you don’t talk to Thomas Benzies, these events can still happen, so beware. To learn more about these Cartels, you can check out our cartel guide in Schedule 1.