Green Wednesday has emerged as the cannabis industry’s equivalent to Black Friday, with dispensaries across the United States offering significant discounts on a variety of products such as pre-rolls, gummies, vapes, and flowers. This trend has led to a notable surge in cannabis sales, with some reports indicating a 91% increase in average sales on the day before Thanksgiving last year compared to a typical Wednesday.
According to Dutchie, an Oregon-based e-commerce platform utilized by thousands of dispensaries nationwide, the average basket size for consumers increased by 9% to over $70, marking a significant rise in spending. New York dispensaries reported even higher numbers, with medical cannabis baskets reaching more than $106. The surge in sales has been attributed to the growing trend of Americans swapping alcohol for cannabis, particularly around the holiday season.
Spencer Scott, the chief revenue officer at Dutchie, emphasized the importance of Green Wednesday as a crucial day of business for cannabis dispensaries. The increasing popularity of this event is expected to continue as more consumers opt for cannabis as an alternative to traditional alcohol consumption. The concept of Green Wednesday began in the early 2010s when delivery services observed a significant sales spike on the day before Thanksgiving, leading to the industry’s adoption of this event as a promotional opportunity.
Catalyst Cannabis, a California-based dispensary with nearly 30 locations, described Green Wednesday as a ‘pre-holiday pilgrimage for weed lovers,’ allowing customers to stock up on products before family gatherings, long weekends, and travel. The industry has embraced this event, branding it as the cannabis version of Black Friday. However, the trend is not without its health concerns, as researchers have warned about the potential risks associated with increased cannabis use.
Recent studies have highlighted the potential negative health effects of marijuana use, including increased risks of paranoia, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, a 2024 study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association has linked cannabis use to a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes. Dr. Robert Page, a professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and chair of the American Heart Association, has emphasized the need for public awareness regarding the cardiovascular risks associated with cannabis consumption.
Despite these health warnings, the trend of switching from alcohol to cannabis continues to grow, with many consumers finding comfort in the potential de-stressing effects of marijuana. However, experts continue to caution that consumers should be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions, such as knowing their dosage, staying hydrated, and avoiding driving under the influence of cannabis.