Some outdoor grow operations in BC are feeling the stress of the ongoing stigma against cannabis. Though they have the same challenges as other farmers, they get none of the tax benefits of being deemed agricultural.
Author: Tim Wilson
Tim Wilson is an independent journalist, researcher, and author. He reports extensively from Canada and Mexico. Follow him on Twitter @TimothyEWilson
Ontario retailers seek relief from OCS
The cyberattack last August on the parent company of Ontario Cannabis Store’s (OCS’) third-party operated distribution centre, Domain Logistics, briefly crippled the cannabis distribution system in Ontario.
Getting to know you: the business of cannabis consumer data
Canada’s cut-throat retail market has many battlegrounds, with a lot of attention being paid to pricing, branding, and store appeal. But behind the scenes there’s another battle, and that’s over high-quality data.
Should Alberta move to a direct delivery model?
British Columbia’s direct delivery program, which allows certain BC-grown cannabis products to bypass the Liquor Distribution Branch’s (LDB’s) Richmond warehouse, is under scrutiny from industry observers.
Examining the pros and cons of provincial cannabis distribution
The provincially mandated, centralized distribution of cannabis in Canada is taking some heat and the industry is seeing a healthy debate on the pros and cons of provincial centralized distribution, and particularly ‘monopsonies’, where there is only one buyer.
Is the price right? Retail cannabis feels the squeeze
As some markets are saturated with bricks-and-mortar outlets and intense price competition, retail cannabis is feeling the squeeze.
Microbial testing’s double standard
Microbial testing is necessary to ensure that cannabis products are safe to consume. However, the risks associated with microbial levels vary according to the product, and how it is consumed. In Canada, this is complicated by a challenging regulatory environment.
How are cannabis retailers standing out in the crowd?
Cannabis retail is facing some serious challenges, with many markets in Canada reaching saturation. Locally owned stores are often in direct competition with well-resourced chains. Retailers are seeking innovative ways to differentiate themselves.
Paying the price in the cannabis supply chain
The supply chain for cannabis products in Canada appears to be fairly simple, however, there are many processes within this chain – such as lab testing, packing and shipping – which all add to the cost.
Building cannabis brands with creativity and innovation
Despite the popular narrative that government regulations make it almost impossible for licensed providers (LPs) to brand their products, many LPs are finding creative and innovative ways to get their story out, which suggests the doom and gloom has been overblown.
Ontario’s “flow-through” program prepares for prime time
Ontario’s flow-through program, which will allow retailers to order products not stocked in OCS warehouse, has been undergoing a complex platform development phase that involves both LPs and retailers.
The quest for the best pre-roll
According to Headset Canadian Insights, last year pre-rolls were the second-largest product category in Canada, with a 17% market share. As of June 2021, pre-rolls have upped their national share to 19.3%.
