News

Inside the BC Cannabis Store

Published on November 18, 2018 by David Wylie

We normally buy our review products online.

But this weekend was perfect for a day trip to Kamloops to check out the provincial government’s brick and mortar store.

The BC Cannabis Store is discreet, tucked into a busy strip mall; the windows are frosted with an artistic landscape of trees.

Right away, you’re asked for ID at the door.

Once inside, it’s bright, clean and classy — vaguely reminiscent of an Apple store. At the centre of the room is a circular counter with small stations set up for each strain. A bud is protected inside a rounded, clear container that acts as a magnifying glass. It has a ‘nose plug’ that can be removed for a sniff.

Cannabis oils and sprays are on display in a locked cabinet behind glass.

You order by writing the SKU on a notepad, provided along with a golf pencil. There are also iPads available to look up the various strains, so you don’t need to talk to a staff member if you’re feeling uncomfortable.

There were about a dozen staff, all welcoming and friendly. The ones we spoke with were knowledgeable and were upfront about what they knew first-hand vs. what they’d heard or read.

Information is on display throughout the store, explaining the difference between sativa, indica and CBD, as well as health info. None of the information feels preachy.

TV screens are located above the registers showing all of the strains sorted by type, what’s available and what’s sold out, as well as the producer.

There is a small selection of bongs, vaporizers and rolling papers available for purchase.

Staff told us the store has been busy since opening, and that cannabis has been a popular Christmas gift.

If you plan on going, here are five things you should know.

Here’s the inside of the store.