7 Best Cities in Canada to Sell CBD Products

Published:

10/7/2024

Updated:

11/1/2024

Nowadays, more and more cannabidiol (CBD) products are entering the cannabis industry in Canada. If your CBD brand is part of this growth, you probably already realise that it’s not just about having great products. You should also know where to sell and market them effectively.

When you’re in the CBD business, targeted marketing is your secret weapon. You should focus your efforts on the right cities to boost your sales and grow your brand faster. But how will you do that?

Geo-Targeting in CBD Marketing

Geo-targeting is a location-based marketing strategy in which you focus your efforts on specific locations where your products are most likely to sell. Instead of casting a wide net, you’re zeroing in on cities that are hungry for what you offer. When you know where your customers are, you can reach them more effectively, thus increasing your brand awareness and potentially driving more sales.

Here’s how geo-targeting boosts your ROI:

Higher Conversion Rates: When you focus on high-demand areas, every dollar you spend on marketing goes further. You’re putting your ads, promotions, and content in front of people who are already interested in CBD, which means they’re more likely to buy.
Efficient Use of Resources: Targeted campaigns ensure you’re not wasting time or money on areas where interest is low.
Increased Brand Awareness: By concentrating on the right cities, you’ll build a stronger presence where it matters most, making your brand more recognisable and trusted.

The Top 7 Cities to Sell CBD Products in Canada

Canada’s CBD market is in an interesting place right now, with revenues expected to hit a solid US$179.70 million by 2026. But here’s the catch— as per Statista, while the market is still strong, the growth rate is starting to cool down. In fact, the revenue is projected to decline from 2024 to 2029, bringing the market volume down to US$171.50 million by 2029.

This means that knowing where to focus your efforts is more important than ever. With the market tightening, it’s vital to target the right cities to ensure your products get the attention they deserve. That's where we come in. We've done the legwork to identify the top 7 cities in Canada where your CBD products have the best shot at flying off the shelves.

1. Toronto, ON

Toronto’s market potential is huge. The city is at the forefront of Ontario’s cannabis scene, with recreational stores popping up and thriving across the region. Toronto offers a plethora of opportunities—from its business-friendly environment with lower operating costs compared to other major cities like New York to its close proximity to the US border, which makes it a top choice for cannabis tourism. And with the possibility of cannabis lounges and cafés becoming more common, the city’s market potential is only set to grow.

2. Calgary, AB

Calgary is quickly becoming a key player in Canada’s CBD market. Alberta's cannabis scene is on the rise, and Calgary is at the heart of it all. While public cannabis consumption might be restricted within the city limits—unlike in places like Lethbridge—Calgary still offers plenty of opportunities for CBD enthusiasts.

3. Vancouver, BC

Vancouver’s laid-back vibe and progressive attitude towards cannabis make it a prime location for CBD products, like full-spectrum CBD oils and other medical cannabis items. With the freedom to smoke in public places where tobacco is permitted, enjoying THC-free CBD oil, CBD gummies, or other types of products made from cannabis plants is just as easy and accessible here.

British Columbia has one of the biggest illegal marijuana markets globally, which indicates a strong and steady demand for cannabis products. What’s more, there’s no provincial cap on how many cannabis stores can open, leaving plenty of room for new businesses to step in and meet the growing demand.

If you’re thinking about establishing a retail location in Vancouver, now’s the time. The city’s market is ripe for expansion, and there’s ample opportunity for you to make your mark.

4. Edmonton, BC

Thanks to Alberta’s cannabis regulations, which are aligned with alcohol rules, purchasing CBD products from private storefronts and an online store run by the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission is legally allowed for individuals as young as 18.

The city’s low tax rates for labor and corporate taxes make it easier for new and existing businesses to operate profitably. Plus, unlike many other places, Edmonton allows municipalities to set their own rules for public cannabis consumption. This flexibility means CBD businesses can tailor their offerings to meet local demand.

5. Winnipeg, MB

While Manitoba might still be catching up to other provinces in terms of cannabis tourism, Winnipeg is well-positioned to become a key player, especially with its proximity to the U.S. border—just 100 km away. The low cost of living and doing business here make it an attractive location for entrepreneurs looking to enter or expand in the CBD market.

Winnipeg’s potential for CBD companies bolstered by its thriving industries, including tourism and conventions. The city’s attractions, like the world-class Canadian Museum for Human Rights, the renovated Assiniboine Park and Zoo, and the bustling Forks Market, are drawing more visitors every year. This influx of tourists presents a great opportunity for CBD retailers to tap into a diverse and expanding customer base.

6. Saskatoon, SK

Saskatoon might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of CBD markets, but it’s quietly becoming a standout spot for the industry. The city is experiencing a boom in small to mid-sized businesses thanks to Saskatchewan’s entrepreneur-friendly policies. The city has a diverse population, including a strong base of working professionals and an emerging senior demographic, both of whom are showing interest in natural alternatives like CBD.

7. Waterloo, ON

Waterloo is a city on the move. With a low unemployment rate of just 5.3% (as of 2016) and a growing population of over 115,000, it’s a place where people have the disposable income to explore new wellness products like CBD. The recreational cannabis market in the city is still finding its footing, but the potential is huge.

Waterloo’s mix of young adults, professionals, and a supportive business environment offers a unique opportunity for CBD entrepreneurs. Establishing your CBD business here means you’ll be tapping into a market that’s ready to embrace new products and ideas.

Targeted Marketing Strategies for CBD Products in Canada

So, you’re ready to dive into the Canadian CBD market, but how do you make sure your products stand out in the crowd? The answer is targeted marketing. By focusing your efforts on the right audience in the right places, you can maximise your reach and see better results.

Create a Geo-Targeted Marketing Campaign

In a country as vast and diverse as Canada, not every city or province will respond to your CBD marketing in the same way. That’s why it’s crucial to tailor your campaigns to specific regions where demand is high. Start by identifying the cities with the most potential and concentrate your efforts there.

For a deeper dive into crafting a successful cannabis marketing strategy, check out these innovative cannabis marketing ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

Utilising Digital Advertising

When it comes to digital advertising, it’s all about knowing where your audience spends their time online. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are great, but remember that there are strict advertising guidelines around CBD. You’ll need to get creative with your ads by focusing on educational content that resonates with your target audience without making direct health claims.

You might also want to consider email marketing to keep your customers engaged. Building an email list allows you to communicate directly with your audience, offering promotions, product updates, and valuable information that keeps them coming back for more.

Content Marketing and SEO for CBD Products

In the CBD industry, consumers are constantly seeking information. Creating high-quality, informative content can help establish your brand as a trusted authority. For more detailed strategies, check out these cannabis content marketing services to see how you can elevate your brand’s presence online.

Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is another must-have in your marketing toolkit. With so many players in the market, ranking high on Google can make or break your business. Focus on local SEO to ensure your brand shows up when potential customers search for CBD products in their area. This expert guide to cannabis SEO in Canada will give you the insights you need to climb the search engine rankings.

Don’t forget to explore local SEO tactics to make sure your business appears in local searches, and if you’re curious about the costs involved, this SEO cost guide for small businesses breaks it all down.

E-Commerce Platforms and Final Thoughts

Finally, if you’re selling CBD products online, choosing the right e-commerce platform is vital. It needs to be user-friendly, secure, and capable of handling your specific needs as a CBD retailer. For some expert advice, take a look at this guide to the best cannabis e-commerce platforms to make an informed decision.

Final Words

Canada’s CBD market is bursting with potential, and the right strategy can make all the difference. There are plenty of cities you can target, such as the ones we mentioned above. Nevertheless, success doesn’t just happen. It’s about smart, targeted marketing that speaks to the right audience in the right places.

At Latched Agency, we know the ins and outs of Canada’s CBD landscape, and we’re here to help you navigate it. If you’re ready to make your mark and take your CBD business to new heights, let’s chat. Book an intro call with us today, and let’s start crafting a winning strategy together: Book an Intro Call now.

7 Best Cities in Canada to Sell CBD Products

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