
Last week, Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation (NSLC) released its third quarter results, with recreational cannabis sales in the province totalling $17.4 million during the first 2.5 months of legalization. Statistics Canada later released their province-by-province cannabis sales for the same period showing that Atlantic Canadians continue to purchase far more cannabis per capita than the rest of the country.
Despite these figures–and apparent demand–Nova Scotia is looking to expand its number of cannabis retail stores, as online sales have been slower than expected. Finance Minister Karen Carey was reported saying online cannabis sales were expected to account for 10% or more of total sales in the province, but are only in the range of 6%.
Furthering these issues, the province is apparently not making any money on cannabis at this point because of implementation costs. Like many provinces, NSLC has also experienced supply problems.
NSLC is the only licensed retailer allowed to sell cannabis in Nova Scotia. Twelve NSLC outlets sell cannabis and all but one also sell alcohol. The sole stand-alone cannabis store is in downtown Halifax. Customers can also purchase online from the government.
Minister Carey suggested more retail stores would help address financial issues and geographical gaps in the province, particularly in parts of the South Shore and through the Annapolis Valley.
More to come as this develops.