Private cannabis businesses are worried about BC government stores losing money. BC cannabis dealers are concerned that the provincial government's cannabis stores are operating at a loss.
The private industry says it already faces many challenges in making a profit, and the BC government's competition for customers is another obstacle that could hold them back.
"If you control wholesale distribution and you have retail stores, you have an advantage. And throw on top of that the fact (the government does not) have to publish (the) financials," said Ehren Richardson, a co-owner of Sunrise Cannabis.
"It's very difficult. Generally, (provincial) downgrades all the small, independently owned retailers to try and capture market share. If you are not accountable for your financial performance, you can get it." The government doesn't disclose retail sales or the costs involved in running retail operations, meaning taxpayers have no idea if stores are making a profit.
Read more at pipanews.com