Cannabis in British Columbia — Part 6: The Business of Bud

 🌿 Cannabis in British Columbia — Part 6: The Business of Bud

BC’s cannabis industry is booming, but it’s a mix of big corporations, craft growers, and regulation challenges.

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🏢 Big Players vs Craft Growers

• Large Licensed Producers

  • Dominate retail and supply chains.
  • High-capital investment, marketing power, and economies of scale.
  • Often produce consistent but less “boutique” products.

• Craft & Small Growers

  • Focus on quality, terpenes, and specialty strains.
  • Struggle with licensing, high fees, and compliance costs.
  • Many previously operated underground and now face barriers to entering the legal market.

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📊 Market Forces

• Price vs Quality – Legal prices are higher than black market, but quality and testing are guaranteed.
• Consumer Demand – Shifts toward high-CBD products, edibles, and concentrates.
• Supply Challenges – Seasonal crop issues, regulation changes, and limited retail space affect availability.

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🌱 Sustainability & Responsibility

• Energy-intensive operations – Indoor grow facilities use large amounts of electricity.
• Environmental concerns – Water use, pesticides, and waste need careful management.
• Social responsibility – Equity programs aim to support marginalized communities but are still limited.

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🔑 Takeaways

• BC’s cannabis industry is complex and evolving.
• Both big and small growers shape what you see in stores.
• Responsible consumption means understanding market realities, sourcing ethically, and respecting potency.

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