Move over, chocolate – legal pot sales have officially surpassed you as Americans’ preferred feel-good indulgence. A new report from MJBizDaily, a cannabis industry outlet, found that Americans spent roughly $30 billion on legal marijuana in 2022 compared to $20 billion spent on chocolate.
While marijuana and chocolate may seem like an iconic combination, it appears that Americans have a preference for one over the other. The report also found that purchases of legal cannabis even dwarfed sales of other common “feel-good” products including craft beer, opioid medications, and topical pain relief.
MJBizDaily’s report is a testament to the growth and popularity of the legal cannabis industry. The outlet predicts that by 2028, sales of legal weed will climb to nearly $57 billion. With more states legalizing cannabis and a growing acceptance of the drug among the general public, it’s no surprise that legal pot sales are on the rise.
While some may argue that the rise of legal pot sales is cause for concern, others view it as an opportunity for economic growth and job creation. In addition to sales of the drug itself, the legal cannabis industry has created a host of ancillary businesses, from cultivation and manufacturing to packaging and marketing.
Of course, there are still many challenges facing the legal cannabis industry, including ongoing federal prohibition and the lack of access to banking services. However, the industry’s growth and resilience in the face of these challenges is a testament to the dedication and ingenuity of those working within it.
As legal pot sales continue to climb, it will be interesting to see how the industry evolves and adapts to new challenges and opportunities. One thing is for sure – legal cannabis is here to stay, and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.
