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Lobster Baked – Marijuana sales could boost Maine’s tourism economy
The tourism sector and the economy as a whole have been hit hard by the pandemic around the world. Maine’s fate was no different. Like other states in the US, Maine is currently on the path to economic salvation by any means necessary.
The Maine government is keen to capitalize on the newly impacted cannabis legalization and decriminalization law. This, coupled with the calm and peaceful atmosphere on the streets of Maine, is sure to attract a significant flow of tourists.
States like California and Colorado are perfect examples of how this cannatourism idea could work. The attraction of recreational cannabis is quite big; it draws locals and tourists together.
This summer is illuminated by tourists who are already booking rooms and spaces for their “potty vacation”. Maine has a lot of charm, even without considering the availability of adult cannabis, the natural tourist attractions are well worth it.
Since the official retail sale of cannabis began in the last quarter of 2020, the state has seen a noticeable increase in tourist numbers.
A quick look at cannabis legalization in Maine
Maine has the slowest adoption of recreational grass legalization in US history. Voters in the state approved the legalization almost 5 years ago in 2016. The legislation slowed the progress of the bill by calling for various changes. Gouverneursvetos, the pandemic and a change in government administration prevented this draft law from being passed quickly.
When retail cannabis sales began last October, only six stores in the state were licensed to supply cannabis. By May 2021, the total number of retailers had grown to 34, with a staggering $ 1 million increase generated from sales. (This information was obtained from the state’s marijuana policy office). Total sales from October to a few weeks ago are approaching $ 6 million.
Hospitality Maine Seminar
In a seminar held a few days ago, Charlie Langston, executive director of Wellness Connection, spoke about the role cannabis was playing in improving Maine’s tourism industry. Mr. Langston’s company is a popular retailer of medical and adult marijuana products. He is responsible for the four showcases of the Wellness Association; two for recreational marijuana and the remaining two for medical marijuana. The company also operates a cultivation facility and extraction laboratory in Maine.
Mr. Langston also believes that Maine will see a tourist boom in a few weeks’ time.
Summer is just around the corner and it is the best time to visit tourists. Many people have contacted wellness associations for information about the steps to take when purchasing recreational cannabis upon arrival in the state.
In his speech, Mr. Langston said Maine can follow the path taken by Colorado, the first state to legalize adult marijuana in the United States.
Colorado grew its tourism industry by 51% as early as 2021 when it decriminalized recreational cannabis. The government claims that cannabis tourists spend up to $ 161 per visit and non-cannabis tourists spend much less. Langston highlighted a report from the Colorado Office of Tourism that said 50% of tourists who visit Colorado each year intend to use recreational grass legally. Not to mention the millions of dollars in adult and medicinal cannabis in Colorado each year. Last year alone, the state made over two billion dollars in sales despite the rampant pandemic.
Benefits of cannatourism in Maine
Jobs and even more jobs. Businesses will generate additional revenue as more tourists flock to the state. The services of local companies and their products are in greater demand.
Cannabis-related businesses like lounges, cafes, and bars can help stabilize the state’s economy by generating additional revenue.
The hospitality industry in Maine will also gain a lot as tax revenue from cannabis-related companies would be used to improve the industry. The effects of the pandemic will be drastically reduced as canna tourism takes root in Maine.
Perceived fears
Some residents fear that the expected surge in tourism this summer could intensify illegal activity in the city. It could also prevent the police from overseeing the activities of legalities related to cannabis use.
However, the government claims that with proper recording and surveillance, it will be easy to ensure the safety of tourists and residents. It will also ensure that marijuana is provided within legal limits.
Things to attach
In order for cannatourism to work in Maine, all companies involved in the sale of marijuana, as well as their employees, must understand the basics of approved cannabis legislation.
The government must also allocate cannabis use spots across the state as soon as possible. This would limit the pollution caused by smoking. Sites can be built for adult weed activities. Even hotels can change their services to include CBD-infused products.
The Magis Lodge Hotel Group is a popular hotel and one of the pro cannabis lodges currently considering various options for their guests to use and consume cannabis. Managing director Phil Kronenthal also sees great tourism potential in Pot. If other hotel groups can take over this measure, more tourists will find my cannabis visit very attractive.
The current government needs to quickly develop an efficient system to generate profits instead of just relying on taxed sales. The regulator that created Nebel also maintains an orderly system of records for all legal cannabis-related activities in the state.
Bottom line
The numbers expected for this summer could completely revive the hospitality industry in the state.
After a difficult and somewhat pandemic year, tourists plan to enjoy the relaxing and therapeutic benefits of the pot while strolling the quiet streets of Maine.
The government and the state’s residents just need to work hand in hand to figure out how to integrate cannatourism with other aspects of the Maine community, particularly the traditional hotel experience.
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