Ohio Dispensaries Generate $11.5 Million in First Week of Adult-Use Cannabis Sales

LOS ANGELES- Ohio’s newly launched adult-use cannabis market saw a strong start, generating over $11.5 million in sales during its first five days, according to data from the Ohio Division of Cannabis Control (DCC). The figures highlight the early enthusiasm for recreational cannabis sales, following the state’s legalization that went into effect in December 2023.

Dispensaries holding dual-use licenses, allowing them to serve both medical and adult-use customers, recorded 138,466 transactions from August 6 to 10. Alongside recreational sales, medical cannabis purchases during the same period totaled $1.9 million.

The positive market response suggests that Ohio could reach annual cannabis sales of nearly $1.3 billion, based on projections from industry analysts. The rapid uptake positions Ohio to potentially rank among the nation’s significant cannabis markets, alongside states like Michigan, Illinois, and California.

Operators have reported significant boosts in sales since transitioning to adult-use offerings. Kathleen Olivastro, Senior Vice President at Ascend Wellness Holdings, noted that some stores experienced revenue jumps of three times their previous levels.

Ohio launched its adult-use market with 98 dispensaries approved for recreational sales, with additional stores opening later in the week. As of mid-August, 120 dispensaries have received dual-use certificates, and the DCC plans to issue further licenses, including those aimed at social equity applicants.

The robust launch signals growing consumer interest and positions Ohio as a competitive player in the expanding national cannabis industry.