TISDALE — A retired farmer from Aylsham is excited to become one of the first to enter a newly-legal industry.
Rod Malberg was chosen by the provincial government to operate a cannabis shop in Tisdale.
“I’m excited about getting a store opened up in Tisdale and meet the community,” he said.
In Saskatchewan, there are 32 communities that host cannabis shops. The permits were selected through a random lottery. Malberg said he applied for a few locations to increase his chances.
“I just thought it would be a good business opportunity and the first guys here are going to be the pioneers in the legal industry,” he said.
The businessman said cannabis is something that’s been swept under the table by the government for years. He expects it will be a popular product, due to some of its medicinal properties.
At this point, Malberg is still working on the details. He’s waiting for the provincial and federal governments to release the regulations he’ll have to follow, as well as trying to find out where he can legally purchase the product. He’ll also be looking for a location for the store that will follow any rules set out by the Town of Tisdale.
“I think anything that’s a pioneer business is always exciting.”
Cannabis will become legal Oct. 17. Malberg must be in operation within 12 months of legalization.
