A Rapidly Growing Workforce in Response to Recreational Sales

ORAB, Ohio (WKRC) – Seven months after Ohio legalized recreational marijuana sales, a local cannabis cultivation facility is experiencing rapid growth, signaling a major shift in the state’s cannabis industry.

The facility, originally launched in 2019, has expanded its workforce significantly. In 2024 alone, the number of full-time employees grew to 47 following the legalization of adult-use cannabis in August. Operated by The Cannabist Company, the facility supports five dispensaries across Ohio, including one in Monroe.

Facility manager Katye Anderson noted that while the legalization of recreational cannabis increased production demands, the facility’s day-to-day operations have remained consistent.

Inside the Cannabis Manufacturing Process: From Seed to Sale

The cultivation facility follows a structured and meticulous process to ensure high-quality cannabis production. Workers carefully trim and clean dried buds before packaging them for dispensary shelves.

The process begins with cloning young plants from a mother plant and placing them in individual dirt sacks. These plants are then nurtured under controlled lighting and temperature settings to optimize growth.

After approximately 12 weeks, the plants are harvested and undergo drying or freeze-drying procedures. The harvested cannabis is then sent to a processing plant in Columbus, where it is transformed into THC extract used for various cannabis products such as gummies, oils, and vapes.

Despite the increased production volume, Anderson emphasized that the fundamental processes have remained largely unchanged since the facility’s inception. Approximately 60% of the cannabis processed at the plant is distributed to dispensaries statewide, fueling Ohio’s thriving cannabis market.

Surging Demand: Ohio’s Cannabis Industry Breaks Sales Records

As recreational cannabis sales continue to climb, dispensaries across the state have seen a dramatic increase in customer traffic.

Keri Stan, district retail manager for The Cannabist Company, highlighted the unprecedented demand for cannabis products since Ohio officially launched adult-use sales.

Since legalization, Ohio dispensaries have reported over $333 million in cannabis sales as of February 18, demonstrating the industry’s rapid ascent. With consumer interest soaring, many industry experts anticipate further expansion and investment in cultivation and processing facilities.

Strict Security and a Close-Knit Work Environment

Given the highly regulated nature of the cannabis industry, security remains a top priority at the cultivation facility. Employees and visitors are required to follow strict cleanliness protocols, including wearing protective clothing and shoe covers to prevent contamination.

Despite the stringent guidelines, Anderson praised the work culture, emphasizing the sense of camaraderie among staff members.

As Ohio continues to solidify its place in the legal cannabis market, cultivation facilities like this one will play a crucial role in sustaining product availability and meeting consumer demand. With 24 states now allowing recreational cannabis sales, Ohio’s cannabis boom is just beginning.