Chatham-Kent's first retail cannabis store is set to open on Saturday but it's not a done deal yet for The We Store in Chatham.
Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario Spokesperson Raymond Kahnert told Blackburn News on Wednesday the "proposed location" at 427 St. Clair Street, Unit 5A in Chatham has been issued a Retail Store Authorization (RSA) and the operator was able to order its product from the Ontario Cannabis Store, but a final pre-opening inspection is required before the store can open.
"The inspection will take place later this week when the operator confirms the store is ready," said Kahnert. "I cannot provide you with an estimated date or average time when the process will conclude. Each store applicant is at a different stage of the licensing process."
He added if the store is approved, the operator is issued an approval letter, and the store will be authorized to open. Kahnert said before issuing a licence to any operator, the AGCO undertakes a comprehensive assessment of the applicant and all interested parties, including police and background checks.
"The AGCO will only license applicants who meet all legal and regulatory requirements," Kahnert said. "Stores are not shown as authorized to open until they have met all regulatory requirements and passed [the] pre-opening inspection.
The We Store posted a message on its Facebook page on Tuesday that it was opening on Saturday and announced on Wednesday it had been granted the necessary license to sell cannabis.
"We're excited to announce that we have been granted our required license to fulfill all of your cannabis needs," read the post.
The We Store will have cannabis flower, CBD products, vapes, edibles and cannabis-infused beverages, and the latest cannabis accessories.
"Our team is working diligently to stand head and shoulders above all competition in customer service and care," The We Store said. "We have a large variety of products and a very knowledgeable staff to offer you accurate information about them. We are committed to you."