The COVID-19 pandemic significantly reshaped consumer behaviors across various industries, and the cannabis sector was no exception. With lockdowns and social distancing measures in place, cannabis delivery services experienced unprecedented growth, evolving from a niche offering to a mainstream necessity.
Pandemic-Induced Surge in Cannabis Delivery
As the pandemic unfolded, many states classified cannabis dispensaries as essential businesses, allowing them to remain operational. However, to adhere to health guidelines, there was a swift pivot towards delivery and curbside pickup options.
In states like Alaska, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington, cannabis sales saw a notable uptick during the pandemic period in 2020 compared to the same period in 2019. Sales reached a three-year peak in Washington in May 2020 and in Alaska, Colorado, and Oregon in July 2020: Cannabis sales increases during COVID-19: Findings from Alaska …
A survey highlighted that 90.1% of respondents relied primarily on cannabis delivery services during the pandemic, a significant increase from the 20.7% who did so before: Top Cannabis Delivery Benefits for Retailers | Elite EXTRA
Regulatory Adaptations Facilitating Delivery
The surge in demand prompted several states to revise their cannabis regulations to accommodate delivery services. For instance, Delaware, Louisiana, New Jersey, and Utah, which previously did not permit cannabis delivery, enacted temporary measures to allow it during the pandemic: Safe Access to Cannabis in Times of COVID-19
In Oregon, the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) permitted stores to operate via curbside pick-up and home delivery temporarily: COVID-19 pandemic in Portland, Oregon
Post-Pandemic Landscape and Challenges
While the initial surge in cannabis delivery was driven by necessity, many consumers have grown accustomed to the convenience it offers. However, as in-person shopping resumed, some delivery services faced challenges. Companies like Eaze and Grassdoor ceased operations due to factors such as low profit margins, fluctuating demand, and competition from illicit markets: Cannabis Delivery Companies Continue to Fail; and Struggle
Nevertheless, other delivery services have persisted, adapting to the evolving market and consumer preferences.
The Convenience
The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst, accelerating the adoption and expansion of cannabis delivery services across the United States. While the post-pandemic period presents challenges, the convenience and accessibility of delivery have solidified its place in the cannabis industry. As regulations continue to evolve and consumer behaviors adapt, cannabis delivery services are poised to remain a significant facet of the market.