Ohio’s adult-use cannabis rollout was one of the most successful in the US, says analyst
Ohio’s newly launched recreational marijuana market is already turning heads nationwide, with experts calling it one of the most successful rollouts in U.S. history. Ben Burstein, a national marijuana sales analyst with LeafLink, said Ohio’s approach to launching its recreational cannabis market has set it apart from other states.
“It has been one of the most successful launches in U.S. history,” Burstein noted.
Since recreational cannabis sales became legal in August 2024, Ohio has raked in $242 million in sales — a feat achieved in just five months.
What’s fueling this unprecedented growth? According to analysts, the state’s 124 dual-use dispensaries are a major factor. Ohio’s decision to grant comprehensive licenses allowing dispensaries to sell both medical and recreational cannabis from the start provided a seamless transition for businesses and consumers.
“Usually, when a state starts, they have to create a separate path for adult recreational use,” Burstein explained. “Ohio already had a blueprint that other states struggled to create.”
Despite this rapid success, not every corner of Ohio is embracing the new industry. More than 120 cities and towns have enacted local bans on recreational cannabis sales. However, based on trends seen in other states, these bans may be temporary.
“What we’ve seen from other states with municipal bans is that, over time, cities want the tax revenue that comes with the market,” said Burstein.
As Ohio’s cannabis market grows, it’s clear that the financial benefits are hard to ignore.
While sales figures soar, Ohio lawmakers are debating the future of the industry, with critical issues on the table. The Senate is considering measures to restrict home-grow rights and ban most vape products, while the House focuses on clarifying regulations and revising tax revenue collection methods.
“It’s very complicated,” Burstein admitted, highlighting the challenges that come with regulating a rapidly evolving industry.
Despite these challenges, Ohio’s cannabis market is thriving. Burstein predicts Ohio is on track to become the next billion-dollar cannabis market in the U.S.
“The market is doing really well. Product availability is good, and the margins are great,” he said. In fact, Ohio is already on pace for $800-900 million in annual sales, with potential for even greater growth as new markets open across the state.
Ohio has firmly established itself as a major player in the nation’s cannabis industry. While there’s still much to navigate in terms of legislation and community acceptance, the early success of the market suggests a promising future.
