9 Bold Marijuana Industry Predictions

New Hospitality MarketTHC Beverage GrowthClimate Change Impacts

Posted February 15, 2025

Minnesota's cannabis industry is on the brink of significant growth, and I project it will surpass $2 billion in sales by 2028. Businesses must be ready to navigate shifting regulations and evolving customer trends. The next few years will shape the success of cannabis in the Midwest.

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Minnesota's Cannabis Market Will Surpass $2 Billion By 2028

Minnesota's cannabis market has had a slow start due to licensing delays, but rapid growth is expected in the coming years. By 2028, annual sales are projected to exceed $2 billion, following a similar growth trajectory to Illinois. Minnesota's strategic location, surrounded by prohibitionist states, is positioning it as a cannabis tourism hub. As the state becomes a regional distribution center, expect to see increased investment and a surge in craft cannabis offerings.

What This Means For Your Business

To capitalize on this growth, it's essential to position your brand as a leader. The market's evolution will bring both new competitors and opportunities. How are you preparing for an influx of consumers and businesses?

Cannabis Hospitality Will Be Legalized In Minnesota By 2027

Minnesota will follow the footsteps of states like Nevada and Colorado, legalizing cannabis lounges, private consumption events, and cannabis-friendly hotels by 2027. The Twin Cities metro area is expected to be home to at least three major cannabis hospitality locations by that time.

4 Key Considerations For Your Business

Minnesota's Advertising Laws Will Be The Nation's Strictest By 2026

By 2026, Minnesota will have some of the most stringent cannabis advertising regulations in the country. As digital ad platforms continue to impose restrictions, businesses will be forced to shift their focus to influencer marketing, educational content, and experiential events.

Actionable Insight

Brands that invest in SEO, affiliate partnerships, and consumer engagement will have the edge in an increasingly competitive market. Focus on building strong relationships with local influencers and creating educational content to stay at the top of your audience's mind.

Black Market Cannabis Sales Will Shrink By 60% By 2030

Minnesota's commitment to equitable licensing and affordable pricing, along with tribal partnerships, will drive legal cannabis sales and reduce black market activity. By 2030, sales in the illicit market are expected to drop by 60%, as more consumers turn to regulated products with reliable potency.

How To Prepare

Focus on building consumer trust through transparency, testing, and quality assurance. Offering a consistent, reliable product is your competitive advantage in this evolving landscape.

40% Of Edible Sales Will Be Low-Dose THC Beverages By 2026

Minnesota's early adoption of THC beverages is fueling a beverage-dominant market. By 2026, THC-infused beverages will account for 40% of the edible market, surpassing traditional options like gummies and chocolates. These drinks offer convenience, precise dosing, and social acceptance, making them popular with new cannabis users.

2 Key Question For Your Product Line

A Cannabis Drink Brand Will Become A Global Icon

A cannabis drink brand can go global by using strategies mimicking Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and Red Bull. By focusing on lifestyle appeal like wellness, relaxation, and creativity, the brand could connect with trends like mental health and the growing alternative drinks market like mocktails. Similar to how Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and Red Bull became known worldwide, a cannabis drink could create a non-THC version for international markets and use strong branding to become a popular product everywhere.

4 Brand Strategies For Global Success

Minnesota Will Lead In Tribal Cannabis Partnerships By 2026

Minnesota is on track to create one of the most successful tribal cannabis markets in the nation. By 2026, at least 25% of dispensaries will be tribal-run, ensuring a significant portion of the state's cannabis supply chain is driven by Native American businesses.

What You Can Do Now

Start building relationships with tribal dispensaries and cultivators. These partnerships could be key to accessing a more equitable market and ensuring your product is well-distributed across the state.

Outdoor Cannabis Grows Will Struggle Against Climate Challenges

Minnesota's cold climate presents challenges for outdoor cannabis cultivation. By 2027, over 90% of cannabis cultivation in the state will occur in indoor and greenhouse facilities, as growers favor controlled environments that yield higher-quality flowers.

Actionable Insight

If you're involved in cultivation, consider investing in indoor growing solutions. Automation and energy-efficient technologies will become essential for long-term success.

Minnesota's First Major Cannabis Brand Will Be Craft

While multi-state operators (MSOs) will enter the market, Minnesota's first breakout cannabis brand is likely to come from a local craft grower or edibles manufacturer. These businesses will stand out by focusing on organic cultivation, unique terpene profiles, and sustainability.

Opportunity For Your Brand

If you're a craft producer, now is the time to differentiate yourself. Focus on sustainability, organic growing practices, and creating unique products that resonate with local consumers.

Position Your Cannabis Business For The Future

The future of Minnesota's cannabis industry is growing rapidly, with exciting opportunities ahead. Competitive businesses will forecast market trends, address change quickly, and continue focusing on what's possible—not just what's happening now.

5 New Possibilities To Bet Big On

5 More High-Value Questions Remain