The pre-roll cannabis market has experienced significant growth in both Canada and the United States. However, the two countries exhibit notable differences in consumer preferences, market dynamics, and product offerings. This article explores these distinctions, highlighting key factors that contribute to the unique landscapes of the pre-roll markets in Canada and the U.S.

Market Share and Consumer Preferences

Canada: Pre-Rolls Gaining Prominence

In Canada, pre-rolls have rapidly ascended in popularity, accounting for approximately 32% of the cannabis market share. For a six-month period in 2024, pre-rolls even surpassed traditional flower sales, indicating a strong consumer shift towards convenience and ready-to-use products: Marijuana Moment

Canadian consumers show a marked preference for multi-pack pre-rolls, which constitute about 85% of pre-roll sales. The most popular format is the 1.5-gram three-pack, although there is a growing trend towards larger multi-packs, such as 2-gram and 2.5-gram options.

United States: Flower Remains Dominant

In contrast, the U.S. cannabis market is still dominated by flower products, which hold a 41% market share compared to pre-rolls at 14%. However, pre-roll sales have been on an upward trajectory, with revenues increasing from 469 million in 2019 to 3.1 billion in 2024.

American consumers tend to favor single 1-gram pre-rolls, which make up approximately 42.3% of pre-roll sales. Multi-packs are gaining popularity, accounting for nearly 50% of the market, with the 2.5-gram five-pack being the most favored format.

Product Segmentation and Innovations

Infused Pre-Rolls: A U.S. Specialty

Infused pre-rolls, which combine cannabis flower with concentrates for enhanced potency, have seen significant success in the U.S., capturing 44% of the pre-roll market share. Sales of infused pre-rolls reached $1.75 billion between 2023 and mid-2024, reflecting a strong consumer appetite for high-potency products: MJBizDaily

Canada’s Cautious Approach

In Canada, infused pre-rolls are less prevalent, accounting for a smaller portion of the market. Regulatory constraints and a more conservative consumer base have limited the proliferation of these products. However, there is a gradual increase in their availability and acceptance.

Pricing Dynamics

The average price of pre-rolls in Canada is higher than in the U.S., primarily due to the dominance of multi-pack formats and the inclusion of higher-cost infused products. In 2024, the average Canadian pre-roll sold for approximately CAD 18.43, while the average U.S. pre-roll was priced at USD 6.50.

Despite the higher prices, Canadian consumers continue to favor pre-rolls, suggesting a willingness to pay a premium for convenience and product variety.

Seasonal Trends and Consumption Patterns

Both markets experience seasonal fluctuations in pre-roll sales, with peaks during the warmer months. In Canada, pre-rolls outpaced flower sales between May and October 2024, highlighting the product’s popularity during outdoor and social activities. Mary Jane Cones North America Inc

In the U.S., similar trends are observed, with increased pre-roll consumption during spring and summer months, aligning with festivals, vacations, and social gatherings.

Outlook and Future Developments

The pre-roll market in both countries is poised for continued growth. In Canada, pre-rolls are expected to challenge flower as the leading product category, driven by consumer preferences for convenience and evolving product offerings: Marijuana Moment

In the U.S., the expansion of legal cannabis markets and the introduction of innovative products, such as infused pre-rolls, are anticipated to fuel further growth in the pre-roll segment. As consumer preferences evolve, manufacturers and retailers will need to adapt to meet the demand for diverse and high-quality pre-roll options.