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Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis (AGLC) removed a rule on the display of cannabis products that some retailers say has contributed to a series of thefts targeting the industry.
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In an AGLC letter sent to cannabis retailers on Tuesday and obtained by Postmedia, the commission says it has removed its regulation that prohibited cannabis products and accessories from being visible from the outside of a store. To meet that requirement, stores had to install window shades.
It’s a decision they said was made to increase security in stores, which have increasingly become targets of crime.
“AGLC is aware of a significant increase in commercial robberies at licensed retail cannabis stores in recent months, particularly in the city of Calgary,” the letter said. AGLC did not immediately respond to Postmedia’s request for comment.
“The use of violence and weapons has occurred in some commercial robberies, and AGLC is concerned for the safety of staff, customers and responding police officers.”
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Postmedia has requested data from the Calgary Police Service on cannabis store robberies in the city this year.
High Tide, the company that operates Canna Cabana stores in Alberta, welcomed the removal of the policy, originally put in place to keep products out of sight of minors.
“What the regulation meant was that, in essence, cannabis shops became prime targets for criminal elements. And the reason is, if you were looking to break into a store, rob a store for cash or products, you’re more likely to pick a target where people can’t really see what’s going on from the outside.” Said High Tide Senior Vice President Omar Khan.
“It was creating a significant safety issue for our employers, and not just ours, but employers throughout the cannabis retail sector… It was an unintended consequence, but it was a significant consequence.”
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Break-ins and attempted robberies at Canna Cabana stores have spiked recently across the country, Khan said, but particularly in Alberta.
He said his company plans to remove window coverings at its locations after making sure they continue to comply with provincial and federal regulations.
The decision was also welcome news for Jim Ramadan, whose family owns the Bow Cannabis store in Calgary’s Bowness neighborhood. He said his staff has raised security concerns, particularly closing the store at night.
“I think it has been delayed a long time,” Ramadan said. “It’s great peace of mind and we’ll definitely be looking to change our window coverings here soon. Also from a business perspective, it’s really good that they relaxed so we can be a little more open, a little more friendly.”
In its letter to retailers, AGLC said the policy change is intended to mitigate theft, meaning stores should not replace window coverings with outward-facing promotions or advertisements.
They added that federal bans on displays remain in place and advised retailers to make sure security features, including video recordings and alarm systems, are in good working order.
Twitter: @jasonfherring
