Happy New Year from ABLE BC, new cannabis consumer data, and more industry news inside. ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
|
|
Cannabis Industry Update: January 14, 2026 |
|
|
Dear ABLE BC Cannabis Members and Industry Colleagues,
Here's the latest news for the private cannabis industry: -
Happy New Year from ABLE BC
- New Data on Age, Location, and Buying Habits of Canada's Legal Cannabis Consumers
CCBC Releases 11 Policy Recommendations to Build a Stronger Industry Vancouver: Temporary Bylaw Changes for 2026 FIFA World Cup
Canopy Growth Confirms Acquisition of MTL Cannabis - Cannabis Delivers: $10B to GDP and $5.4B in Taxes for Canada
ABLE BC at Grow Up Industry Conference & Expo Exclusive Insurance Benefits for ABLE BC Cannabis Members - Member Spotlight: Flora Cannabis
go2HR: Start 2026 Strong - Book a Free Winter JHSC Drop-In Session Out and About with ABLE BC - Save the Date: Upcoming Events and Webinars
- Help our Cannabis Advocacy - Join ABLE BC
|
|
|
Happy New Year from ABLE BC |
Happy New Year from ABLE BC! We hope you had a busy and successful holiday season and that you were able to find some time to rest and connect with friends and family. Our team is back in the office after a short break, refreshed and ready to spend another year advocating for our members in the private liquor, hospitality, and cannabis industries in BC. We’re already busy mapping out the year ahead and are excited about what’s in store for our members and industry partners in 2026.
We wrapped up 2025 on a strong note with a visit to Victoria, where ABLE BC met with the Honourable Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food. It was a productive and encouraging engagement about the roles our industries plays in BC’s economy and communities, and we’re looking forward to continuing this important dialogue in the year ahead.
|
ABLE BC in Victoria with Honourable Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food |
We’re currently finalizing our 2026 event plan, and we’re excited to bring you more in-person opportunities to connect, learn, and grow together throughout ABLE BC’s 50th Anniversary year. We’ll be sharing more details soon about what’s coming up and how you can get involved.
As many of you may have seen, ABLE BC appointed Bo Chen as Executive Director following his successful tenure as Interim ED. As Bo steps into the role, a key focus is strengthening and streamlining ABLE BC’s processes - particularly around advocacy, communications, and programs & benefits - to ensure the association is working as effectively, efficiently, and transparently as possible for members. This work will support stronger advocacy outcomes and an even better member experience as ABLE BC continues to evolve and grow in its 50th Anniversary year. |
New Data on Age, Location, and Buying Habits of Canada's Legal Cannabis Consumers |
More than seven years after legalization, new survey data is offering a clearer - and more complex - picture of who is buying legal cannabis in Canada, and where the legal market is still falling short.
Recent polling from Research Co. and the newly released 2025 BC Cannabis Use Survey both show a maturing legal market - but also confirm a key ongoing challenge: the illicit market has not disappeared, especially in BC and Quebec.
Legalization Is Popular. The Legal Market Is Still Catching Up.
Support for legalization remains strong. 65% of Canadians support legal cannabis, up three points from 2024. At the same time, Canadians continue to strongly oppose legalizing other substances, reinforcing that cannabis remains in a category of its own.
Since legalization, governments have collected $5.4 billion in cannabis taxes, and in BC alone the sector supports 5,000+ jobs and $1.75B in GDP. By many measures, legalization has been a success. But consumer behaviour tells a more nuanced story. Legal vs. Illicit: Conflicting But Telling Data According to Research Co.’s national survey: -
Only 48% of consumers say all their cannabis comes from legal retailers
- 70% say they buy at least some cannabis legally
- In
BC and Quebec, only 42% and 41% say all their cannabis comes from legal stores
- Nearly
1 in 4 consumers aged 55+ say none of their cannabis comes from legal sources
Meanwhile, the 2025 BC Cannabis Use Survey shows stronger results inside BC: -
72% say they buy exclusively from legal sources (up from 55% in 2021)
- Only 2% report buying exclusively from illicit sources
- Still, about
31% report getting at least some cannabis from illicit channels
The different results likely reflect differences in methodology - but the conclusion is the same: the legal market is growing, but the illicit market is not gone. How Consumption Is Changing The BC survey shows: -
31% of adults used cannabis in the past year (still above pre-legalization levels)
- Use is shifting toward non-medical consumption
- Daily use is increasing
-
43% of users say they are drinking less alcohol because of cannabis (up from 31% in 2021)
Product preferences are also evolving: -
Dried flower is declining
- Edibles, vapes, and infused pre-rolls are rising, especially among younger users
- Consumers are using a wider range of product formats than before
Why This Matters
One of the core goals of legalization was to eliminate the black market. While provinces like Alberta have been more successful at moving consumers into legal stores, BC and Quebec continue to lag - particularly among older, legacy consumers. The issue is no longer access. It’s habit, trust, price, and experience.
Sources |
|
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
|
Cannabis Cultivators of BC Release 11 Policy Recommendations to Build a Stronger Industry |
The Cannabis Cultivators of BC (CCBC) has released its 2026 policy paper, Unlocking the Full Potential of BC Cannabis, calling on the provincial government to formally recognize cannabis as a priority economic sector and implement policies that strengthen the legal market and support local producers.
The paper outlines 11 key policy priorities, including: -
Modernizing the farm-gate (Producer Retail Store) licensing program
- Recognizing federally licensed cannabis as a Qualifying Agricultural Use
- Establishing a provincial cannabis designation to reinforce product origin and consumer trust
-
Expanding Direct Delivery access for all producers
- Streamlining export and excise processes
- Strengthening enforcement against illicit retailers
You can read the full policy paper here and learn more about CCBC here.
As advocates for private retailers, we recognize that the success of our producer partners is essential to maintaining a healthy cannabis ecosystem. Supporting policies that improve market access, regulatory clarity, and provincial recognition helps ensure innovation, stability, and the ability to compete against illicit sources. There are multiple priorities we support detailed in the paper - particularly revisions to the farm-gate program, Qualifying Agricultural Uses, and the provincial cannabis designation - and look forward to working with the rest of industry to see them realized.
|
Vancouver: Temporary Bylaw Changes for 2026 FIFA World Cup |
On November 26, 2025, Vancouver City Council officially approved a temporary by-law to support Vancouver’s role as a Host City for the FIFA World Cup 26™. The by-law introduces time-limited changes to several existing regulations to support public safety, event operations, and FIFA requirements during the tournament period.
The approved changes will be in effect from May 13 to July 20, 2026 and will have important implications for businesses operating near venues and high-traffic areas across the city. What’s Changing: Temporary Adjustments Approved by Council The FIFA World Cup 2026 By-law allows for: - Installation of temporary event structures
- Faster removal of graffiti and unauthorized commercial signage on private property
-
Extended noise allowances for event operations and international broadcast schedules
- Temporary restrictions on street vending, street entertainment, and advertising
- Adjustments to truck routes in high-traffic areas
These changes will apply primarily in areas near: - BC Place Vancouver
-
Hastings Park/PNE Fairgrounds (location of Vancouver’s FIFA Fan Festival™)
Noise & Operations: What Businesses Should Expect
To support international broadcasting and 24-hour event operations: - Repair, maintenance, deliveries, and broadcast production will be permitted 24 hours a day
-
Music, public address systems, and entertainment will be allowed from 8:00 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week
- Noise extensions and operational changes will be communicated in advance to impacted residents and businesses
ABLE BC encourages members to: - Begin early operational planning for summer 2026
-
Review delivery logistics and truck access (see road closures)
- Plan for extended hours, staffing, and inventory needs
-
Ensure signage and advertising are fully compliant
- Monitor communications regarding restricted zones and enforcement areas
The City is also encouraging businesses to review the Community Activation Playbook, which outlines options for public viewing, permitting, event activations, and FIFA-related programming. View the Match Day Schedule here. |
Canopy Growth Confirms Acquisition of MTL Cannabis |
Canopy Growth Corporation has announced that it will acquire MTL Cannabis Corp. in a transaction valued at approximately $125 million, creating "Canada’s leading medical cannabis business" and strengthening Canopy’s presence in key markets, including Québec.
Founded by Québec-based brothers Richard and Michel Clément, MTL Cannabis is known for high-quality, craft-grown flower and award-winning products, including the MTL and R’Belle brands. The company also operates clinics and an online medical channel, Abba Medix, providing a strong foundation for patient-focused services. The acquisition will allow Canopy to: - Expand medical cannabis reach nationwide
- Increase
high-quality flower supply for Canadian and international markets
- Strengthen its Québec footprint and adult-use product portfolio
- Retain MTL’s experienced management and cultivation team
Closing is expected by February 2026, pending shareholder, court, and regulatory approvals. For more information, please click here. |
|
|
Cannabis Delivers: $10B to GDP and $5.4B in Taxes for Canada |
The numbers show that cannabis is a serious economic driver - and for retailers, this growth represents opportunity: more consumers, bigger sales, and a sector contributing billions to both provincial budgets and Canada’s GDP.
A new report shared in the House of Commons shows that since legalization in 2018, federal and provincial governments have collected over $5.4 billion in cannabis tax revenue. Provinces and territories received the lion’s share - $4.2 billion - while the federal government collected $1.2 billion. Ontario leads with $1.5 billion, Alberta with $1.1 billion, Quebec with $501 million, and BC with $479 million.
Retailers are central to this growth, and the funds generated through excise taxes help support educational campaigns, prevention programs, and market development initiatives that continue to normalize cannabis and bring new consumers into stores. Retail’s Role in a $10 Billion Industry
Canada’s licensed cannabis sector contributed $10.9 billion to GDP as of October 2025, up from $9.3 billion a year earlier. Licensed production leads the way, contributing $10 billion, with retail adding $930 million. Retailers are seeing the impact firsthand: household spending on cannabis has nearly doubled since 2020, topping $9 billion in 2024, with the majority coming through legal channels.
Even with slight seasonal dips, like the $451.7 million in October 2025, overall consumer demand remains strong, demonstrating that legal cannabis retail is a thriving and growing part of Canada’s economy. |
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. |
ABLE BC at Grow Up Industry Conference & Expo |
ABLE BC's Bo Chen will be joining the speaker lineup at the Grow Up Industry Conference & Expo, taking place January 19–21, 2026, in Vancouver.
Bo will participate in the Executive Summit January 19 powered by StratCann, speaking on an advocacy panel at 3:10 pm alongside other cannabis industry leaders and changemakers: David Brown (Founder, StratCann), Julia Cameron (Vice President, Communications & Corporate Affairs, Village Farms Canadian Cannabis), Megan Preik (Founder & CEO, Accelerated Quality Solutions), and Sarah Campbell (Director, Craft Cannabis Association of BC).
The panel will focus on advancing collaboration, policy reform, and sustainable growth across Canada’s cannabis sector. About the Executive Summit
The Executive Summit powered by StratCann kicks off Grow Up Vancouver with a full day of thought leadership and high-level discussion designed exclusively for C-suite executives, founders, investors, and decision-makers in the cannabis industry.
Taking place Monday, January 19, 2026, at the Vancouver Convention Centre East, the Executive Summit explores the business of cannabis through an executive lens – addressing market strategy, regulatory reform, investment trends, and international opportunities that define the next decade of growth. Expect meaningful dialogue, data-driven insights, and access to the people shaping the future of cannabis.
View the Executive Summit schedule here.
Learn more and register for the event at growupconference.com. |
Exclusive Insurance Benefits for ABLE BC Cannabis Members |
Through ABLE BC's partnership with Western Financial Group, ABLE BC Cannabis Members now have access to exclusive offers on commercial insurance and employee benefits tailored specifically for the cannabis retail industry.
Here’s what’s available to you: - Immediate Savings: Save on apples-to-apples coverage for qualified businesses.
-
Stabilized Annual Rates: Our in-house programs and insurance marketplace provide long-term rate stability.
- Risk Management Support: We help you identify and mitigate future risks to keep your business protected.
-
24/7 In-House Claims Service: Rely on around-the-clock support when you need it most.
- Industry Expertise: Work with insurance professionals who understand the unique needs of the cannabis industry.
Curious about insurance coverage for your cannabis business?
Contact bo@ablebc.ca or CLICK HERE,
|
Member Spotlight: Flora Cannabis |
Flora Cannabis is locally owned and proudly rooted in BC, with seven convenient locations across Kelowna (Downtown, Enterprise, Glenmore, Lakeshore, West Kelowna), Vernon, and Prince George - even in spots as easy to find as next to an A&W.
Flora is built on a simple belief: weed is fun, and buying it should be too. Their stores are comfortable, approachable, and a little nostalgic - kicking it old school rather than going for “sleek and discreet.” This is a loud and proud cannabis shop, run by people who genuinely love weed and love talking about it.
The experience - online or in-store - is designed to feel easy, not stiff or intimidating. As the team puts it: your weed should be the only thing that’s sticky.
If you’re looking for a friendly, no-pressure place to ask questions and find great cannabis, Flora is exactly what a neighbourhood pot shop should be. |
|
|
go2HR: Start 2026 Strong - Book a Free Winter JHSC Drop-In Session |
A strong start sets the tone for the year, and in Tourism & Hospitality, health and safety must stay front and centre from day one. As operations continue and plans take shape for the months ahead, now is the right time to refocus your Joint Health & Safety Committee (JHSC) and reinforce safe, effective practices that support successful operations.
go2HR’s free, expert-led JHSC Drop-in Sessions are designed to help committees stay engaged, informed, and confident in their role. These 30-minute, practical sessions can be added to your regular JHSC meetings, either virtually or in person, and are tailored to real-world challenges across BC’s Tourism & Hospitality industry.
Each session utilizes relatable industry examples and interactive discussions to help committee members better understand their responsibilities, address current hazards, and enhance both occupational and psychological health and safety awareness. The result is a committee that’s more effective, more confident, and better equipped to act. Winter-relevant topics include managing snow and ice hazards, preventing cold stress and hypothermia, supporting staff after a critical incident, and addressing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). If 2026 is the year you want to turn your JHSC into a health and safety powerhouse, this is a practical place to start.
Book your free JHSC Drop-in Session today |
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.
|
|
|
|
