Ohio Expands Adult-Use Cannabis Market With Pre-Rolls After First Year

More than a year into adult-use marijuana sales in Ohio, consumers now have the option to purchase pre-rolls. This development marks a significant milestone for the state’s regulated cannabis industry, which has steadily evolved since legalization.

While pre-rolls are among the most popular product categories nationally, their introduction in Ohio comes with regulatory oversight and procedural requirements. The Ohio Division of Cannabis Control announced on August 1 that licensed cannabis processors must obtain agency approval before stocking pre-rolls on dispensary shelves.

The debut generated immediate consumer demand, with at least one dispensary selling out of its initial shipment in just two days.

Regulatory Pathway for Pre-Roll Approval in Ohio

The approval process for pre-rolls is rooted in Ohio’s earlier medical marijuana regulations. Historically, the state prohibited any form of combustible marijuana that was prepared and packaged before sale. This restriction effectively blocked pre-rolls from entering the medical program, despite consumer demand.

Now, with adult-use sales well established, regulators have updated their stance. Licensed processors must still submit applications and receive explicit approval before offering pre-rolls at retail. This regulatory gatekeeping reflects the state’s cautious approach to product expansion while maintaining oversight of consumer safety and quality standards.

Strong Consumer Demand From the First Drop

The rollout of pre-rolls in Ohio confirmed what industry analysts have observed nationwide: pre-rolls are one of the fastest-growing product segments in cannabis.

Christy Bezuijen, vice president of brands and marketing at Firelands Scientific—a grower, processor, and dispensary operator—confirmed that demand outpaced supply almost immediately. According to Bezuijen, the first release was a limited drop, and more inventory is scheduled to follow.

This rapid sellout underscores a clear consumer preference for convenience and ready-to-use formats, particularly among new users who may be hesitant to purchase loose flower and rolling supplies.

National Trends Show Pre-Rolls as a Growth Leader

The popularity of pre-rolls is not confined to Ohio. A joint study conducted by Custom Cones USA, a Washington-based pre-roll packaging and manufacturing firm, and Headset, a cannabis analytics company headquartered in Seattle, highlights the segment’s remarkable growth.

Between June 2023 and June 2024, pre-rolls recorded the highest revenue increase of any cannabis product category, climbing 11.89%. Over the same period, national pre-roll sales surpassed $4.1 billion, with more than 394 million units sold.

These figures illustrate not only strong consumer demand but also the mainstreaming of pre-rolls as a staple cannabis product. They are particularly popular with newer consumers and casual users who value consistency, portability, and ease of use.

Ohio’s Adult-Use Market Reaches $702 Million in First Year

The introduction of pre-rolls comes as Ohio celebrates a successful first year of adult-use cannabis sales. From launch through mid-2024, the state recorded more than $702 million in recreational sales.

In June, regulators increased the purchase limits for recreational consumers, further expanding access and allowing retailers to serve a growing market. These adjustments reflect both consumer demand and the state’s willingness to refine its regulatory framework in response to market performance.

Legislative Uncertainty Shapes the Next Phase of Regulation

Despite the positive sales momentum, Ohio’s cannabis industry continues to face potential regulatory changes. Lawmakers have proposed several measures that could significantly reshape the market.

Senate Bill 56, for example, would:

• Lower THC levels in recreational marijuana extracts from a maximum of 90% to 70%.
  
• Cap the total number of retail licenses at 400.
  
• Prohibit smoking in most public places.
  

Although the bill has not yet advanced, it is expected to resurface when the legislature reconvenes in September. If passed, the measure could tighten product availability and alter the market landscape.

Why Pre-Rolls Are a Strategic Product Category

Pre-rolls offer unique benefits for both consumers and operators.

• Consumer convenience: Pre-rolls eliminate the need for grinders, rolling papers, or other equipment, making them especially attractive for beginners.
  
• Consistency and quality control: Licensed producers can standardize potency, strain blends, and size, ensuring a reliable consumer experience.
  
• Market expansion: For dispensaries, pre-rolls represent a high-volume, fast-moving category that can attract new customers and increase basket size.
  

For Ohio operators, adding pre-rolls helps diversify product lines and aligns the state with national consumer trends.

Market Challenges and Compliance Considerations

While the addition of pre-rolls strengthens Ohio’s market, it also introduces challenges.

• Regulatory approvals: Processors must navigate the application process, which may delay product launches and increase compliance costs.
  
• Supply chain constraints: Limited initial drops suggest that inventory buildup will take time.
  
• Competition with other formats: Flower, edibles, and concentrates continue to dominate sales, meaning pre-rolls must carve out their share of consumer spending.
  

In addition, pricing strategies will play a critical role. If pre-rolls are priced too high relative to loose flower, consumers may opt to roll their own or turn to the illicit market.

The Broader Context of Pre-Rolls in Cannabis Evolution

The acceptance of pre-rolls in Ohio signals the broader normalization of cannabis consumption methods. In many states, pre-rolls are no longer seen as niche products but rather as mainstream offerings akin to a six-pack of beer or a pack of cigarettes.

Their growth highlights the shift toward convenience-driven cannabis consumption and reinforces the importance of adapting regulations to consumer behavior. For Ohio, this step represents a gradual but important evolution toward aligning its market with national trends.

What Ohio’s Pre-Roll Launch Means for the Future

Ohio’s decision to allow pre-roll sales more than a year into adult-use legalization marks both a symbolic and practical milestone. The overwhelming demand for initial shipments proves that consumers were waiting for the convenience and consistency pre-rolls provide.

At the same time, regulatory approval requirements show that Ohio remains cautious, balancing consumer choice with oversight. National data confirms that pre-rolls are one of the fastest-growing product categories, and Ohio is now positioned to capture that momentum.

Looking forward, the industry will need to monitor legislative developments, including proposals to cap THC levels and retailer licenses. Whether Ohio’s market continues its upward trajectory will depend on how well regulators, lawmakers, and operators balance innovation, compliance, and consumer demand.