A third cannabis retailer has shown interest in opening up shop in Bonnyville, but can’t move forward due to the Alberta Gaming, Liqiour and Cannabis Commission’s (AGLC) decision to postpone any future licenses due to a product shortage.
Clarity Cannabis already has a shop open in Cold Lake and recently had their development permits approved by the Town of Bonnyville for a location at 6608 50 Ave. Unit 4.
Owner of Clarity Cannabis Michael Forbes , who is a licensed pharmacist living in British Columbia, stressed the importance of offering a pharmacist-driven cannabis retailer through his storefronts.
“Seeing as the dawn of legal recreational retail will see a large number of first-time consumers, it’s important to use that residents of Alberta, Bonnyville inclusive, have a safe, equal, and, most importantly, educated access to safe cannabis products,” detailed Forbes.
After the federal government decided against having pharmacies to dispense marijuana, Forbes got into the marijuana business because of the health benefits it offers to users.
“I actually sold a lot of my (pharmacy) stores, and figured that I could do more good helping people understand cannabis. This was the only legal way for me to get involved, as a pharmacist. I really see the benefits in cannabis. I feel that pharmacists are the best trained to be able to dispense drugs to the public in a safe and effective manner,” Forbes explained.
He added, “There’s many studies showing it will actually decrease the amount of youth using drugs, and it will decrease the use of opioids and addictive problems in our society.”
Because Clarity Cannabis is still early in the process in terms of their Bonnyville location, their license is being held up by the AGLC, similar to that of the other two cannabis retailers interested in opening up shop in town.
“Upon all of the municipal and governmental approvals, we’ll open as soon as we can,” expressed Forbes.
Clarity Cannabis still has to apply for a construction permit through the town, and have the property pass inspection by the AGLC and the municipality, before they can officially open their doors.
As a result of the moratorium, the business doesn’t have a date in mind for a grand opening.
Along with the Cold Lake location, Clarity Cannabis has another store open in High River and an additional 30 locations under construction.
The freeze on applications should be lifted once AGLC handles the supply-chain issue, and it’s Clarity Cannabis’ hope that the AGLC will be fully stocked by the time they’re able to open.
When they eventually start welcoming customers, Forbes hopes to give back to the area.
“I hope we help the community. I want to be involved, give back, and be part of Bonnyville. I think it’s a great city,” he said.
