Marijuana czar reports strong sales in first month

Since opening in early August, the market has shown steady growth across all three counties, with consumers demonstrating broad interest in a variety of products including flower, vapes, edibles, pre-rolls, tinctures, and topicals. The first month of sales reflects both high demand and a smooth rollout, signaling a solid foundation for Delaware’s developing cannabis industry, a release stated.

No shortages have been reported and at least one retailer has sent out coupons.

The office  has issued 79 conditional licenses and 3 active licenses.  Additional approvals are expected in the coming months, and the state will soon begin distributing Social Equity Financial Assistance (SEFA) Grants to support social equity licensees as they move toward opening their doors.

The release stated that a  full review of program regulations is also underway to "ensure Delaware’s cannabis industry grows safely, sustainably, and equitably."

The program builds on the state’s established medical marijuana framework, first enacted by the Delaware General Assembly in 2011.

Currently, only medical marijuana providers are selling recreational use cannabis.

Gov. Matt Meyer last week vetoed legislation last week that loosened zoning requirements that according to bill backers essentially  limited Sussex County  retail and grow sites to existing medical marijuana locations. Meyer called for revenue sharing A levy on marijuana sales could boost the tax rate to 18 to 20% unless the state reduces its share.

Democratic legislators last month issued an online form asking for feedback on the rollout of recreational marijuana in anticipation of possible changes in legislaiton. The form is available here

Month 1

Retail Sales

• Total Retail Sales: $7,354,293
• Usable Cannabis (flower): $4,065,032 largest category, 55% of retail sales

Cultivation Metrics

• Total Plant Count: 109,412

Strain Metrics

• Strains in Production: 447
• Strains at Retail: 171