B.C. cannabis stores can now sell accessories

Licensed cannabis stores in B.C. are now able to offer cannabis accessory items at their stores.

That includes clothing, books, artwork and other items that have a clear link to cannabis.

“Expanding the range of items available through private licensees will provide further support to a thriving, legal cannabis sector in B.C.,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “At the same time, important restrictions will remain in place to help prevent unsafe activities and ensure we’re not promoting or supporting the use of cannabis by minors.”

The new rules took effect today (Nov. 26), and the sale of items unrelated to cannabis, such as snacks and beverages that do not contain cannabis, remain prohibited.

Before this change, the private retail stores could sell only cannabis, cannabis accessories such as rolling papers and pipes, shopping bags and prepaid purchase cards.

“Many of our customers have a strong interest in peripheral items related to cannabis culture, like clothing,” said Jaclynn Pehota, executive director, Association of Canadian Cannabis Retailers. “We welcome the freedom to meet this demand and provide our customers with more of a one-stop shopping experience.”

Before amending its cannabis regulation, the government considered industry input, federal legislation, public-health objectives and potential effects on minors. Notably, ancillary items sold through cannabis retail stores (CRSs) may not:

• depict a real or fictional person, animal or character, or include a testimonial or endorsement;
• sell items that are typically associated with, or could reasonably appeal to, minors – such as children’s clothing; or
• associate cannabis with a lifestyle that may include glamour, recreation, excitement, vitality, risk or daring.

Further, CRSs are prohibited from selling tobacco, liquor or solvents.