Delaware Reports $903K in Cannabis Sales on Opening Weekend

[PRESS RELEASE] – DOVER, Del., Aug. 6, 2025 – Delaware officials report encouraging results from the first weekend of recreational marijuana sales, which began Aug. 1, marking a major milestone in the implementation of adult-use cannabis legislation.

The inaugural three-day weekend, Friday to Sunday, had combined adult-use and medical sales of more than $903,000, a measurable increase in sales pace that demonstrates robust demand and a successful market launch.

The roughly $625,000 in adult-use sales corresponds to an estimated $93,700 in tax revenue. Sales by county indicate that New Castle County (five locations) generated $432,319.78 in combined sales, followed by Sussex County (five locations) at $242,832.64, and Kent County (four locations) at $227,946.54.

“Delaware’s first weekend of adult-use cannabis sales has shown that our state is ready—and eager—for a well-regulated, responsible market,” Gov. Matt Meyer said. “This moment reflects our commitment to growing Delaware’s economy, strengthening our communities, and prioritizing public health. Now, we have a real opportunity to reinvest this revenue directly into neighborhoods across our state, ensuring Delaware becomes a national model for cannabis quality, innovation and fairness. I’m proud we’re moving thoughtfully and deliberately to get this right for all Delawareans.”

Sales data also revealed diverse consumer preferences across product categories:

• Usable Marijuana (flower): $509,042.59 – the largest category at 56% of total sales
• Marijuana Extract for Inhalation (vapes): $233,267.82 – accounted for 26% of sales
• Solid Marijuana Infused Edibles: $123,768.00 – comprising 14% of total sales
• Marijuana Mix Infused (pre-rolls with concentrate): $16,212.90
• Liquid Marijuana Infused Edibles (tinctures, elixirs, capsules): $13,526.40
• Marijuana Infused Topicals (lotions): $4,790.00
• Miscellaneous Items: $1,362.73
• Marijuana Mix Packaged (pre-rolls): $948.50
• Hash (bubble hash): $180.00

“Delaware’s transition to adult-use cannabis sales has exceeded expectations,” Delaware Marijuana Commissioner Joshua Sanderlin said. “More than $900,000 in sales over the first three days reflects not only strong consumer demand, but also the readiness and professionalism of our licensed operators to serve the public safely and responsibly.

“This successful launch positions Delaware to realize the economic benefits of regulated cannabis sales while maintaining our commitment to public safety and responsible implementation,” said Joshua Bushweller, secretary of the Department of Safety and Homeland Security.

Regulatory Compliance and Safety

State regulators conducted routine compliance checks throughout the weekend, finding dispensaries operating within established guidelines. No significant incidents were reported, and participating retailers demonstrated adherence to Delaware’s comprehensive regulatory framework for adult-use cannabis sales. The Office of the Marijuana Commissioner continues to monitor sales activity and work closely with licensed operators to ensure ongoing compliance with state regulations on product testing, inventory tracking and customer verification.

Economic Impact and Tax Revenue

The weekend’s $903,098.96 in sales represents a strong foundation for Delaware’s projected tax revenue from recreational marijuana. Based on the state’s tax structure, this initial three-day performance suggests the program will contribute significantly to funding regulatory oversight, public health initiatives and community programs throughout the state. By law, recreational marijuana sales are taxed at 15% while medical marijuana purchases are tax-exempt.

Looking Ahead

The Office of the Marijuana Commissioner remains focused on strengthening Delaware’s cannabis market. To date, 64 conditional licenses have been issued, with the remainder expected by the end of the summer. The state will also begin disbursing Social Equity Financial Assistance (SEFA) grants to support social equity licensees as they move toward operations. In addition, a comprehensive review of all OMC regulations is underway to ensure that they foster a safe, sustainable and thriving cannabis industry in Delaware.

Delaware’s Cannabis Program

Delaware’s adult-use marijuana program operates under comprehensive state regulations designed to ensure product safety, prevent diversion to minors and support responsible consumption. The program builds upon the state’s established medical marijuana framework, which was created by the Delaware General Assembly in 2011.