Minnesota's recreational cannabis market has been dogged by delays but this week, two years after the state legalized adult-use cannabis, multiple multi-state operators (MSO) and microbusiness retailers are ready to start selling to the public.
Legacy Cannabis Duluth claimed to be the state's first dispensary, opening today in Duluth. The microbusiness said it will be selling cannabis flower grown by the White Earth Nation.
"Our mission goes beyond retail,” said Josh WIlken-Simon, Legacy Glassworks founder, cannabis advocate and Legacy Cannabis Duluth Lead Consultant, in a statement. “We aim to help remove the stigma around cannabis by fostering a welcoming environment rooted in education, respect, and community.”
Vireo Growth, a cannabis MSO with operations across six states, said it recorded its first sale of adult use cannabis in Minnesota at its downtown Minneapolis Green Goods dispensary.
Vireo has been operating in Minnesota’s medical cannabis market since 2014.
“This is a historic day for our team which we have been preparing for since 2023, and we are honored to share it with patients and new customers across Minnesota. This milestone is more than just expanding access, it’s about building community, fostering inclusion, and continuing to serve Minnesotans with care and responsibility. We are grateful for the trust placed in us and look forward to being part of this new chapter together," said Alexandra Breant, Head of Market in Minnesota for the company, in a statement.
RISE Dispensaries, a cannabis retail chain owned by Green Thumb Industries, said it will commence adult-use cannabis sales at Minnesota retail locations in Brooklyn Park, Eagan, Mankato, New Hope, and Willmar, beginning September 17. In addition to its eight dispensaries across the state, Green Thumb also operates a manufacturing facility in Cottage Grove.
“We are excited to celebrate this historic day in Minnesota with the launch of adult-use cannabis sales,” said Green Thumb President Anthony Georgiadis in a statement. “Our team is looking forward to introducing more Minnesotans to our industry-leading brands including RYTHM, Beboe, and Dogwalkers, while continuing to prioritize medical patients with the trusted service they expect from RISE, including exclusive curbside pick-up and priority parking at select locations.”
