Delaware’s first weekend of legal recreational cannabis sales wrapped up with better-than-expected results, marking an important step forward for the state’s new adult-use cannabis program. Sales officially kicked off on August 1, drawing in both seasoned medical patients and first-time recreational buyers.
During the initial three-day period from Friday to Sunday, combined sales of medical and recreational cannabis totaled more than $903,000. Of that, roughly $625,000 came from recreational cannabis purchases, generating approximately $93,750 in taxes for the state. Recreational cannabis is taxed at 15%, while medical cannabis remains exempt from sales tax.
Breaking down the numbers by county, New Castle County’s five dispensaries led the pack with approximately $432,320 in combined sales. Sussex County’s five shops followed with $242,833, and Kent County’s four dispensaries brought in $227,947.
Governor Matt Meyer praised the outcome, noting that the figures show both readiness and public enthusiasm for a safe, regulated market. He added that the new revenue provides an opportunity to reinvest directly in local communities to make Delaware a leader in marijuana quality, innovation, and equitable access.
Sales reports revealed a range of customer preferences across different product categories. Cannabis flower was the top choice, making up 56% of all purchases with more than $509,000 in sales. Vape cartridges followed at 26%, bringing in over $233,000. Edible products like gummies and chocolates accounted for about 14% of sales, totaling $123,768. Smaller segments included pre-rolls with concentrates, liquid-infused products, topicals, and hash.
Joshua Sanderlin, the state’s Marijuana Commissioner, said the early results exceeded expectations, pointing to both strong demand and the professionalism of licensed operators. He noted that the launch sets the stage for long-term economic benefits while keeping safety a priority.
Joshua Bushweller, Secretary of the Department of Safety and Homeland Security, echoed the sentiment, noting that the opening weekend demonstrated Delaware’s ability to manage regulated marijuana sales responsibly.
Throughout the launch weekend, state officials conducted routine inspections to ensure all retailers followed regulations. No major violations were reported, and dispensaries were found to comply with the state’s detailed rules on product quality, inventory management, and customer verification.
So far, the state has issued 64 conditional licenses, with more expected by summer’s end. The state also plans to begin distributing Social Equity Financial Assistance grants to help equity licensees get their businesses operational. Meanwhile, officials are reviewing all regulations to ensure they promote a safe, stable, and competitive marijuana industry.
Industry actors within and outside the country, such as Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY), will be glad that the launch is going according to plan and adults who wish to consume marijuana for recreational purposes can access products at regulated outlets rather than the black market.
About CNW420
CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of an article each business day at 4:20 p.m. Eastern – a tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. The concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.
To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)
For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com
Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer
CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com
CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN