PAYMENT BATTLE HEATS UP
Weedmaps parent to launch online cannabis purchasing in Canada
WM Technology, which operates Weedmaps, is launching an “integrated digital payment service” for cannabis retailers in Ontario, per MJBizDaily.
Customers shopping digitally at stores can browse and buy products through its listing platform. It will launch in Ontario first, then will roll out to other provinces.
It’s also bringing “the Weedmaps platform directly to cannabis retailers’ branded websites,” with custom options for stores “to better reflect their corporate brand and create a more seamless, end-to-end order experience for customers.”
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JUST EAT IT
New York cannabis edibles under scrutiny in New York
Since legalization was announced, there has been an “explosion” of edibles available on the market made by unlicensed operators in New York. But what’s in them, where do they come from, and is package info like THC potency reliable? Gothamist investigates.
The highlights
- One delivery operator said some edibles come from wholesalers who source from out-of-state and others are made by a “local chef”
- One Brooklyn maker said he uses THC extracts for precision dosing in gummies
- THC-coated chips are store-bought and tossed in cannabis oil before being crisped up
- Packaging sophistication and branding can make or break price points
- Experts warn over-heated THC can turn into CBN and be less psychoactive; THC can also rub off on packaging and make a product less potent
Jessie Kater, senior vice president for innovation, research and development at Curaleaf, said regulated products are superior. “There’s been a lot of work that’s gone into really doing a good job standardizing and making these products so much more consistent,” he said. They ensure “someone can have the same experience on day one as day 30” and that the “first bite is the same as the last bite.”
FU BC
Private B.C. cannabis retailers say there are lower prices at government stores
Some of British Columbia’s private cannabis retailers allege that public government-owned stores are undercutting prices, per CBC.
“They’re selling products at such a low price, we just can’t compete with that as a mom and pop shop,” said store owner Paul Taylor. “Ultimately, we will go under eventually.”
For its part, reps at B.C. Cannabis Stores, of which there are 33 compared to 400 private stores, say it is operating within business standards and aiming to compete with the illicit market.
LONDON CALLING
London mayor Sadiq Khan announces cannabis legalization commission
The new London drugs commission was announced by Sadiq Khan, the mayor of London, England, will take a closer look at how effective the UK’s drugs laws are, reports the Guardian. It will be especially interested in cannabis laws.
Chaired by Lord Charlie Falconer QC, a former lord chancellor and justice secretary, the commission will include legal, health, political, academic and social experts to examine international drugs laws and how effective they are.
Khan is currently in the US promoting investment in London. The tour has thus far included a stop in an L.A. dispensary, cultivation facility and meetings with retailers, growers and the LAPD.
