Cannabis sales spike by 21% in Canada’s most populated province
Canada’s most densely populated province was significantly smokier during H1 than it was last year, according to new data from the Ontario Cannabis Store (OCS).
Ontario observed a 21 per cent increase in cannabis sales by volume year-over-year during the first half of 2024. The province raked in over C$1 billion, representing a 11.8 per cent increase in revenue.
The number of dispensaries in the province increased too, by 3 per cent year-over-year. As of Jun. 20, Ontario had 1,721 certified retailers.
A 22 per cent increase in the number of dispensaries within the greater Toronto area was notable during H1. There are a total of 250 now. However, the quantity of pot shops situated in the city of Toronto decreased by 3 per cent to 388. Eleven closed their doors during the period.
The OCS sent over 204 million grams of weed to authorized retailers during the six-month duration — an 18.5 per cent spike from last year.
Ontario’s government-owned distributor added a variety of products to its catalogue during H1 too.
“The OCS has expanded its product catalog significantly, adding over 1,000 new items from licensed producers,” Chris Jones, President of Toronto’s pot shop Cannabis Xpress, told MJBizDaily this week.
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OCS launches the ‘Buzz Kill’ campaign
On Thursday, the province’s cannabis distributor and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario opened up a fake dispensary in downtown Toronto. It will be temporarily situated at 474 Queen Street West.
Through this new “Buzz Kill” campaign, initiated on the six-year anniversary of domestic legalization, they aim to educate consumers about the dangers posed by the illicit market.
Products found in this fake pop up shop will be clearly labeled with unwanted ingredients you might be exposed to by buying marijuana goods from unauthorized retailers.
A so-called “pesti-cider” beverage will be available to teach patrons about the harmful impact of unregulated cannabis drinks.
“What gives this cannabis-infused cider its signature oomph? We like to think it’s love,” the label says. “But realistically, it’s probably our unregulated use of toxic pesticides.”
The educational dispensary will be open until Oct. 20.
And criminals still control 40% of the market.
Plus, “Illegal cigarette sales could comprise up to 67 per cent of Ontario’s total tobacco market, 45 per cent in B.C. and 44 per cent in Newfoundland.” – Global News September 2023
Crime is flourishing in Justin’s Canada. pic.twitter.com/6w3NS4R8E5
— Eric Schild (@EricSchild2) October 17, 2024
rowan@mugglehead.com
