Cannabis Hospitality Summit, Growing Support for 1KM Rule, New Funding for Processors, and more industry news inside. ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
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Cannabis Industry Update: April 8, 2026 |
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Dear ABLE BC Cannabis Members and Industry Colleagues,
Here's the latest news for the private cannabis industry: - Join ABLE BC at Cannabis Hospitality Summit
- Update on ABLE BC Community Ambassador Role
- ABLE BC Cannabis Committee Update
- Growing Support for 1KM Cannabis Store Separation in BC
Cannabis Sector Shows YOY Growth in January 2026 New Funding for BC's Cannabis Processors - World Cup Vancouver: Cannabis Delivery Times
- Canopy Growth Completes Acquisition of MTL Cannabis
- Rethinking Cannabis Use: What New Research Reveals
- Have Your Say: Help Shape Downtown Vancouver's Future
- Canadians Could Claim Part of $8M Cannabis Settlement
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Mastercard Annual Fees Increase for Cannabis Retailers
- Member Spotlight: Main & 41st Cannabis
go2HR: Investing in Staff - A Smart Move for Long-Term Success Out and About with ABLE BC - Save the Date: Upcoming Events and Webinars
- Help our Cannabis Advocacy - Join ABLE BC
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Join ABLE BC at Cannabis Hospitality Summit |
The 2nd Annual Cannabis Hospitality Summit is a one-day gathering dedicated to the future of cannabis-friendly spaces, tourism, and social experience in Canada. Bringing together hospitality operators, retailers, regulators, tourism leaders, and cultural innovators, the Summit creates space for thoughtful conversation, practical learning, and meaningful connection across the evolving cannabis landscape. Event Details - Date: Friday, April 17, 2026 from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
- Location: New Amsterdam Cafe (301 W Hastings St, Vancouver)
ABLE BC’s Executive Director, Bo Chen, will be speaking on several panels, including: Shared Spaces & Risk - Navigating Alcohol, Cannabis, Insurance, and Liability (10:30 am-12:00 pm).
This session will now more fully explore the intersection of service standards, policy, insurance, and real-world execution - and what it will take to move cannabis hospitality forward in a responsible and viable way.
Bo will also be speaking on from Farm to Experience: The Rise of Farmgate (9:35-10:20 am). Exploring how farmgate retail is creating new opportunities for tourism, local producers, and community-driven cannabis experiences—while navigating regulatory challenges.
Attendees can also join a pre-event wellness experience on April 16, blending yoga, meditation, tea, and cannabis education.
This is a great opportunity to connect, learn, and be part of the evolving cannabis hospitality landscape. We hope to see you there! |
Update on ABLE BC Community Ambassador Role |
Thank you to everyone who applied for the Community Ambassador role. We received a high level of interest and truly appreciate the time, thought, and effort that went into each application.
Our team is currently reviewing all submissions and will be reaching out to successful candidates in the coming weeks. |
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People
Working Well
The Canadian Mental Health Association has created a resource hub for employers and employees dealing with mental health challenges at work. |
| Cannabis Industry Update Newsletter Sign up for our Cannabis Industry Update Newsletter to learn more about our advocacy for cannabis retail businesses. Click here to read past cannabis newsletters. |
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ABLE BC
Member Portal
The Member Portal is your hub for all resources and benefits available to ABLE BC members. Contact jesse@ablebc.ca if you need help logging in. |
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ABLE BC Cannabis Committee Update |
ABLE BC’s cannabis retail advocacy work is supported by our members (representing over 100 private stores in BC).
Our policy priorities and advocacy strategy are also guided by ABLE BC's Cannabis Committee, working alongside our staff and Directors. All committee members are experienced and dedicated industry professionals, representing a range of business sizes and regions across British Columbia.
The Cannabis Committee is chaired by Feven Berhane, Co-Founder of KushKlub Canada. The committee helps steer policy priorities to ensure ABLE BC’s advocacy work meaningfully benefits BC’s private cannabis industry.
Recently, we welcomed Rural Leaf Cannabis and Earth's Own Naturals to our committee! Thank you to our Cannabis Committee members, who continue to play an important role in shaping the future of the industry: |
Growing Support for 1KM Cannabis Store Separation in BC |
A cannabis retailer in Fort St. John is speaking out in support of a proposed one-kilometre separation distance between cannabis stores - an approach currently being explored by the province.
Hive Cannabis owner Dr. Neil Rockerbie highlighted ongoing challenges facing legal retailers, including market oversaturation, competition from the illicit market, and inconsistent regulations across BC. He noted that a standardized separation distance could help stabilize the industry and create long-term benefits for both businesses and municipalities.
This aligns closely with ABLE BC’s ongoing advocacy. Establishing a consistent 1KM separation distance between cannabis retailers remains one of our top priorities, and we are encouraged to see growing support from both industry and government partners. Importantly, this support extends beyond urban centres—many cannabis retailers in rural and remote communities are also backing a province-wide approach.
As Bo Chen of ABLE BC shares:
“A consistent provincial separation distance between legal stores would be welcomed by cannabis retailers across BC. The 1KM rule provides financial stability and business certainty to existing stores (now over 500 in BC) that have invested into this sector and have been proactive partners in not only competing against the illicit market, but also in creating employment and helping drive our province’s economy.” ABLE BC has been actively advocating for this change and will continue working alongside government and industry to support policies that strengthen the legal cannabis sector. Read more about our advocacy efforts on the 1KM rule: |
Hon. Minister of Agriculture Lana Popham (middle) with ABLE BC: Bo Chen, Feven Berhane, Steve Dowsley, Mike McKee |
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Cannabis Sector Shows YOY Growth in January 2026
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Canada’s cannabis industry continues to show strong year-over-year growth, with licensed production and retail both contributing significantly to the country’s GDP. While licensed cannabis production saw a slight dip of 0.9% in January 2026 compared to December, it was up nearly 50% year-over-year—highlighting the sector’s rapid expansion. Licensed cannabis retail also grew, increasing 2.4% month-over-month and 10.1% compared to January 2025.
Overall, the cannabis industry contributed nearly $11.6 billion to Canada’s GDP in 2025, driven largely by production ($10.6 billion), with retail contributing close to $1 billion. Notably, cannabis production now contributes more to Canada’s economy than several traditional industries, including air transportation and meat product manufacturing. Despite ongoing challenges, both licensed and unlicensed segments showed annual growth. Cannabis tax revenues also remained significant, generating over $1 billion for provinces in Q4 2025—marking the second-highest quarter on record. |
New Funding for BC's Cannabis Processors |
Program is open from March 25, 2026, until fully subscribed
The BC Government has launched the Processor Productivity Program (PPP) to help food, beverage, and cannabis processors improve efficiency, reduce costs, and stay competitive.
The program is offered in two phases and combines practical support with cost‑share funding. Phase 1 – Lean training and on‑site operational assessment:
Participating businesses receive multi-day, industry‑focused Lean training, hands‑on assessments, and expert 1:1 guidance to identify inefficiencies, reduce waste, and improve workflow.
Phase 2 – Cost‑share funding:
Eligible participants who successfully complete Phase 1 may apply for cost‑shared funding to implement approved productivity improvements identified through their Phase 1 assessment. |
Cannabis processors can apply but cultivation or retail-only businesses do not qualify.
Cannabis processors must: hold a valid Health Canada processing license and meet all program eligibility requirements; produce final processed edible cannabis products or beverages; and meet all other program eligibility requirements.
Applicants who engage in Phase 2 of the PPP must also ensure that any planned structural changes to their licensed cannabis site are reported to Health Canada, as appropriate.
The program is delivered by Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food. Find additional program details at:
FOOD PROCESSOR PRODUCTIVITY PROGRAM — CME For questions, please contact: Mehdi Gohardehi
Senior Lean Facilitator and Director of Food Processor Training Mehdi.Gohardehi@cme-mec.ca 236-660-7838 |
World Cup Vancouver: Cannabis Delivery Times |
With Vancouver set to take centre stage as a Host City for the FIFA World Cup 26™ , kicking off June 13, 2026, retail and hospitality businesses across the region have a major opportunity ahead — and an important deadline to prepare for.
Cannabis Delivery Times - Will Your Business Be Impacted?
In a collaborative effort between ABLE BC and the BC Liquor Distribution Branch, ABLE BC is reaching out to members and cannabis retail operators in Vancouver to help coordinate cannabis delivery times for businesses that may be impacted by FIFA-related road closures and events.
Access the Community Activation Playbook (includes road closure info) HERE .
View the Match Day Schedule HERE .
If your business anticipates any challenges receiving deliveries, please email bo@ablebc.ca with your licence name, address, and your usual delivery days and times. |
Canopy Growth Completes Acquisition of MTL Cannabis |
Canopy Growth Corporation has completed its $125 million acquisition of MTL Cannabis Corp., positioning the combined business as Canada’s leading medical cannabis platform by revenue. The deal strengthens Canopy’s presence in Québec—Canada’s second-largest cannabis market—and expands its reach in both domestic and international medical markets, including Europe. MTL’s established patient network, clinics, and online distribution channels are expected to enhance Canopy’s ability to serve medical cannabis patients nationwide.
The acquisition also supports Canopy’s broader strategy to achieve profitability, with the company targeting positive adjusted EBITDA by fiscal 2027. MTL, a profitable and cash-generating business, reported strong financial performance, including a 155% year-over-year increase in net income in its most recent quarter. With the transaction complete, MTL is now a wholly owned subsidiary of Canopy, and integration of its operations into Canopy’s supply chain is underway. The combined leadership team brings added operational expertise, particularly in cultivation and product quality, as the company looks to scale efficiently and meet growing demand. |
Rethinking Cannabis Use: What New Research Reveals |
New research out of Quebec is helping shift the conversation around cannabis use, finding that the majority of users do not develop problematic patterns of consumption.
The study found that lower-risk cannabis use is typically associated with occasional, social consumption—often alongside alcohol—while higher-risk use is more closely linked to frequent consumption, tobacco use, and certain mental health factors. Notably, 63% of cannabis users in the study were classified as low risk.
Researchers emphasize that frequency of use is the most important factor, with daily or intensive use significantly increasing the likelihood of negative outcomes. In contrast, occasional use—such as a few times per month—was associated with much lower risk.
The findings highlight the importance of harm reduction strategies and evidence-based education, reinforcing that while cannabis carries risks, they are not universal. Instead, informed consumption practices can play a key role in reducing potential harms—similar to public health approaches used for alcohol. |
Have Your Say: Help Shape Downtown Vancouver's Future |
Our advocacy partner, the Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement Association, is inviting our industry to take part in a short but important survey to help shape the future of downtown Vancouver. Earlier this year, the BIA hosted a February roundtable series, bringing together more than 80 participants across eight sessions. These conversations surfaced valuable insights on what businesses and the broader community want to see from the Mayor and City Council over the next four-year term.
Those insights have now been used to develop a public survey—refined with input from government relations and strategy experts—to ensure the priorities of the downtown business community are clearly represented.
Now, they need your voice. We encourage all members to: -
Complete the survey (it takes less than five minutes)
- Share it with your teams, colleagues, and networks
The results will directly inform the questions and priorities presented to mayoral candidates at the 2026 Mayoral Forum.
The survey is open to anyone who lives, works, or regularly visits downtown Vancouver—so feel free to share it widely with staff, customers, and partners. Incentives to Participate Participants will be entered into a draw to win one of several prizes, including: - Two pairs of Bruno Mars concert tickets + a $500 gift card to the Rosewood Hotel Georgia
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Two Pitchside Club tickets to a Vancouver Whitecaps FC match
- One of five $250 gift cards to Cadillac Fairview Pacific Centre
Survey findings—and the resulting questions for candidates—will be shared ahead of the October election. Participants will also receive early invitations to the BIA’s AGM and Mayoral Forum on September 29, 2026. |
Valued Partners of ABLE BC - Cannabis |
Our valued partners play a vital role in advancing our industry, and we’re proud to highlight their continued support. |
Canadians Could Claim Part of $8M Cannabis Settlement |
An Ontario court has approved an $8-million class-action settlement involving former cannabis company Wayland Group Corp. (formerly Maricann Group Corp.), related to alleged misrepresentation of facility expansion plans between 2017 and 2019. The lawsuit claimed the company failed to fully disclose key information to investors, which later contributed to a drop in share value and eventual delisting. The defendants have denied all allegations and liability. Investors who purchased shares, units, or warrants between December 13, 2017, and August 2, 2019—and held them through that period—may be eligible to claim a portion of the settlement. The deadline to submit a claim is August 20, 2026. |
Mastercard Annual Fees Increase for Cannabis Retailers |
Mastercard has implemented increased interchange-related fees for cannabis retailers in Canada, effective April 1, 2026.
Based on communications from payment processors and industry partners, annual fees for cannabis retailers are rising from approximately $500 USD to nearly $1,000 USD or more. The exact increase varies by provider, but many businesses are seeing cost increases of 50% or higher. Operational Impact
For cannabis retailers, this change represents a direct increase in operating costs at a time when many businesses are already managing tight margins and a competitive market environment. Key implications include: - Higher annual payment processing costs
- Reduced profitability, particularly for small and independent operators
- Additional financial pressure within an already regulated and cost-sensitive sector
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Potential downstream impacts on pricing and business operations
Regulatory Classification Driving Costs
Since the legalization of cannabis in Canada in 2018, Mastercard has enforced an annual $500 USD fee per merchant account under their Business Risk Assessment and Mitigation and Specialty Merchant Registration Program (SMRP). This charge is outlined in Sections 9.1 and 9.2.1 of their SPME Manual and was created for “high-risk” businesses.
Considerations for Retailers Retailers may wish to: -
Review updated fee structures and communications from their payment providers
- Evaluate the financial impact on their operations
- Consider alternative payment solutions where available
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Monitor industry updates as policies and classifications evolve
ABLE BC will continue to gather additional information on these changes and share updates with members as more details become available. |
Member Spotlight: Main & 41st Cannabis |
Located in the heart of Vancouver, Main and 41st Cannabis is your friendly neighbourhood cannabis corner store with a simple mission: make cannabis approachable, affordable, and easy to understand.
Built around two core philosophies—making cannabis less complicated and offering great weed at a great price—the team focuses on creating a welcoming, no-pressure retail experience. Whether you’re new to cannabis or a seasoned consumer, their knowledgeable staff are there to guide you, offer recommendations, and help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Convenience is also key. With free local delivery on orders over $35 and a second location through their North Shore presence, Main and 41st Cannabis is making access to quality products even easier for their community. |
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go2HR: Investing in Staff - A Smart Move for Long-Term Success |
In our latest article in The Quarterly Pour, we explore why investing in staff through professional development is one of the most effective ways to strengthen business performance in BC’s Tourism & Hospitality sector. In fast-paced, high-pressure environments, ongoing training supports service excellence, compliance, and retention, while helping staff build confidence and grow into leadership roles.
We also highlight practical ways to make development actionable, from integrating training into daily operations to supporting supervisors with coaching and communication tools. With a mix of free resources and targeted training, employers can take a balanced approach that builds stronger teams and more resilient operations. Read more. |
Save the Date: Upcoming Events and Webinars Check out these upcoming events: |
Help Our Cannabis Advocacy - Join ABLE BC
Do you own a cannabis retail store? Sign up now for an ABLE BC Cannabis Membership to support the work we do on your behalf.
As ABLE BC works to support BC’s cannabis retailers, we meet regularly with various officials at the LDB, LCRB, and with elected officials in the federal, provincial, and municipal government. With your support, we are making meaningful headway amending regulations and policies that support industry growth.
ABLE BC Cannabis Members have access to several benefit programs that offer exclusive discounts and are designed to help your business thrive. In addition to our benefit programs, we offer expert advice , regular webinars, and many networking opportunities.
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