Applications for cannabis retail stores now open

Pot store licences The retail cannabis licence lottery begins next week and Callam Rodya takes a look at how many spots are available in the north.

If you are looking to get into the retail cannabis industry and open a brick-and-mortar shop in the province of Ontario, it's the first day to apply for a chance at a licence.

Since cannabis became legal in October, consumers in province have only been able to buy the product online.

Citing "national supply shortages," the Ford government will be granting just 25 licences for retail stores in all of Ontario, with only two allocated in northern Ontario.

Those who get the licences will be able to open a cannabis store by April first, and it'll all be awarded by the luck of the draw.

Those who wish to open a private recreational cannabis store in Ontario will only have two days to submit an Expression of Interest application online, as the deadline is Wednesday, January 9^th at noon.

Ontario's Alcohol and Gaming Commission will hold the lottery on January 11th.