Six years after the legalization of cannabis in Canada, Surrey, B.C., has taken a step towards allowing retail stores in the city. The city’s mayor and city councillors approved a policy framework that will permit up to 12 retailers to open, with two stores allowed in each of Surrey’s six neighborhoods. These stores must be at least 200 meters away from schools, community centers, and existing cannabis stores. While Surrey’s board of trade supports the move, they feel that more support is needed in the framework to specifically benefit Surrey-based businesses, as many are struggling in British Columbia. They emphasize the importance of supporting local businesses in the face of competition from larger national players in the cannabis retail industry.
The Surrey Board of Trade CEO and president, Anita Huberman, expressed satisfaction with the progress made towards creating cannabis retail options in Surrey. However, upon reviewing the proposed framework, she noted the absence of additional points or considerations specifically allocated to Surrey-based businesses. The board believes that the cannabis retail industry is currently going through a consolidation phase where small and independent players are struggling against national players with larger resources. As a result, there have been reports of cannabis retail store closures in the province. They urge the City of Surrey to establish a sustainable cannabis retail framework that supports local businesses and benefits the community as a whole.
The board of trade also suggests that the City of Surrey provide a map of areas where cannabis operations can occur, as the current plan only lists zoning codes. By providing a map, potential retailers would have an easier time determining their location and ensuring compliance with the regulations. The board believes that having a clear and accessible map would be beneficial for both retailers and city officials in managing the allocation of cannabis retail stores in Surrey. They emphasize the importance of transparency and ease of access in the regulatory process to promote a successful and harmonious cannabis retail industry in the city.
Overall, the Surrey Board of Trade supports the decision to allow retail cannabis stores in Surrey but stresses the need for more support for local businesses in the industry. They advocate for a sustainable and community-focused cannabis retail framework that takes into account the challenges faced by small and independent players in the market. By providing additional support and resources, the City of Surrey can help local businesses thrive and contribute to the success of the cannabis retail industry in the city. The board’s recommendations aim to create a fair and equitable framework that benefits all stakeholders involved in the cannabis retail sector in Surrey.
