In many states, Cannabis providers are held up as vital members of the community who provide a valuable service. Governors and public health officials are deeming cannabis businesses “essential” operations. This means they can stay open amid being told by state and county officials to isolate at home. This has made people panic buy many items…including cannabis.
All of this commotion with the coronavirus is showing how much US citizens really value recreational and medicinal cannabis. It’s seemingly clear during the current COVID-19 pandemic that cannabis is becoming “essential” to our mainstream society.
Cannabis Sales Skyrocket During COVID-19 Outbreak
The Coronavirus has a lot of people panic buying just about everything in fear of quarantine. As the CDC encourages social-distancing practices, people prefer to order products online. This is obviously so they can get in and get out of the store as quickly as possible. People might not be able to drink at bars or attend sports events. But, they can still stock up on plenty of legal cannabis products.
Shortly after Washington Gov. Jay Inslee announced a statewide closure of bars and restaurants on March 16th a handful of cannabis stores saw an increase in sales that were higher than usual.
KC Franks, the owner of three Lux Pot Shop retail stores in Seattle, told Marijuana Business Daily that average sale per person increased by about $5.
The upshot of the virus’ impact on the cannabis industry, and those who work to ensure cannabis businesses, may be the broad recognition that cannabis is a legitimate as well as essential business. It’s not just toilet paper and hand sanitizer people have been stocking up on during this COVID-19 crisis.
