On June 1, 2020, the Manitoba Government officially turned to a competitive cannabis retail market, allowing more retailers to apply for retail licences. Prior to June 1, there were only 6 licensed non-medical cannabis retailers in Manitoba (Delta 9 Cannabis Store, Tweed, Meta Cannabis Supply Co., Tokyo Smoke, Garden Variety, Fire & Flower Cannabis Co.) with various locations around the province.
Manitoba’s private retail model is structured with regulation through the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority (LGCA) and wholesale distribution through Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation (MLLC).
Those who wish to operate a cannabis retail store in Manitoba are required to successfully complete the required application process, enter into a Cannabis Store Retailer Agreement with Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries (MBLL), and be issued an applicable licence from the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority (LGCA) of Manitoba.
Currently, there are two types of retail cannabis licences that the LGCA issues:
The LGCA conducts background investigations on all applicants as part of the licensing process. Applications will be processed based on the following criteria:
Existing – secured and ready to renovate or in a ready state
Identified – location identified but not yet secured (no lease/purchase in place)
Searching – unidentified location
There is a $500 non-refundable application fee to apply for a Retail Cannabis Licence, and the yearly licence fee is $1,000. Furthermore, all licensed cannabis retailers must comply with the regulations and terms and conditions set by the LGCA.
Additional information on cannabis retail in Manitoba can be found here
