New Study Suggests Ontarians Want More Industry Involvement in the Province’s Cannabis Sector

(Toronto – November 7, 2019) – Today, the Ontario Cannabis Policy Council (“OCPC”) released a representative online survey conducted by Nanos Research revealing more than six in ten Ontarians are open or somewhat open to private sector involvement, with the oversight of the Government of Ontario, in the buying, retailing, and distribution of cannabis. The OCPC is comprised of industry leaders and experts whose primary focus is addressing the key issues impacting Ontario’s adult-use cannabis industry.

“The results of the survey are clear: Ontarians want to see more private sector involvement when it comes to how cannabis is bought, sold, and distributed in the province. Given our shared goal of combatting the illegal market, understanding what Ontarians are actually looking for when it comes to accessing the legal, recreational cannabis market should inform both government and private sector decision-making,” said Trevor Fencott, Chief Executive Officer of Fire & Flower and Co-Chair of the OCPC.

Specifically, the survey reveals:

• 62 percent of Ontarians are open or somewhat open to private companies being able to buy from producers directly;
• 61 percent of Ontarians are open or somewhat open to private companies being allowed to distribute cannabis between producers and retailers; and
• 58 percent of Ontarians are open or somewhat open to private companies being allowed to retail cannabis online.

“This survey further reinforces that we need to create an environment that allows large organizations, as well as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs to compete effectively. One of the most effective tools we have in combatting illicit cannabis sales is establishing a robust, competitive, private retail market, without which we will continue to see a thriving illegal market,” added Daniel Safayeni, Director of Policy of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and Co-Chair of the OCPC.

The survey is particularly timely given the proposed legislative amendments announced in yesterday’s Fall Economic Outlook and Fiscal Review, which will improve how customers access and purchase cannabis in Ontario. Specifically, the OCPC has advocated for click-and-collect and allowing licensed producers to establish retail stores beyond the one store on their production site.

The OCPC continues to call on the government to make the necessary changes to kick-start Ontario’s legal recreational cannabis market by making a commitment to a clear timeline to open more retail stores through an open allocation of licenses. The OCPC looks forward to working with the Government of Ontario to address any hurdles which remain in implementing a merit-based, open allocation system and a competitive, efficient retail market that can compete with the illegal market.

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For more information please contact:
Ceara Copps – Edwards, Senior Advisor, Public Affairs
Ontario Chamber of Commerce
647-936-6734 | cearacoppsedwards@occ.ca