Article content

A series of cannabis store robberies in Alberta has led some retailers to tear down window coverings initially erected to satisfy federal legislation.

Those visual obstructions were meant to adhere to the Cannabis Act to keep cannabis products and accessories out of the view of minors.

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

tap here to see other videos from our team. Try refreshing your browser, or Cannabis store robberies prompt retailers to remove legislated window coverings Back to video

But retailer Nathan Mison said those window coverings compromise the safety of staff by making it easier for robbers to commit their crimes.

“We’ve made ourselves a target by making it so someone can come in, lock the door and take all the time they want robbing a store because no one can see in,” said Mison, spokesman for the Edmonton-based Fire and Flower Cannabis chain.

“Nobody should be in jeopardy at their work.”

One of the Fire and Flower stores in Edmonton was the site of an armed robbery about two weeks ago in which cannabis product was taken.

It’s one of several such heists in the province since a Cannamart store in Edmonton was held up and merchandise stolen in December, the first reported robbery of a cannabis retailer in Alberta since legalization took effect in October 2018.