October 1, 2026
THE INDUSTRY NEWS THAT MATTERS MOST / RETAILING + BUSINESS + BRANDING
Are Cannabis Regulations Giving Scale an Unfair Advantage?
Large cannabis operators may benefit from more than operational efficiency: A new international report argues fixed compliance costs can create structural advantages for scale. We spoke with an independent operator and a regulatory expert, who explained where legitimate safety rules end and disproportionate burdens begin. Read More
The Hidden People Costs Behind Inefficiency
A healthy profit-and-loss statement doesn’t mean work is happening efficiently. A human resources executive explains how unclear ownership, repeated work, and preventable turnover create costs leaders may overlook. Read More
Meaningful Philanthropy That Lasts
In four years, Social Dispensary’s Be.Social program has directed more than $143,000 to local nonprofits. Co-founder Josh Riggs explains how he keeps the program going and why employees and brand partners are integral to the effort. Read More
This Week’s Trending News
DEA Judge Pauses Cannabis Rescheduling Review
A DEA judge has paused the broader cannabis rescheduling review while considering whether to admit a federal watchdog report and allow additional briefing. The order sets no completion date; April’s separate medical-cannabis order is unaffected. Read More
How the Planet 13 Data-Breach Lawsuit Could Impact You
A proposed class-action lawsuit that could sweep in “hundreds of thousands” of consumers hinges on alleged security insufficiencies in third-party data-collection and -storage practices. In a related argument, the plaintiff takes aim at using collected ID data for marketing. Read More
Congress Wants to Call Cannabis Advertising ‘High Risk’
A new bill primarily aimed at cracking down on online scams targeting seniors and other vulnerable users would require online platforms to subject cannabis advertisers to enhanced identity verification, business history review, and periodic re-verification. Read More
