The U.S. pre-roll cannabis market is on fire, and not just literally. Latest statistics show between 2023 and mid-2024, the pre-roll joint market brought in over $4.1 billion and sold more than 394 million units. This surge has led to pre-rolls capturing a larger market share, growing from 13.2% in early 2023 to 15.9% by June 2024. The category’s rapid growth highlights its evolving status from a niche cannabis product to an everyday necessity in cannabis retail. If you run a dispensary, stocking the highest quality top-shelf pre-rolls should definitely be a top priority.
One reason for the boom is simple: convenience. Consumers want a ready-to-use product, and pre-rolls fit that demand perfectly. Whether it’s grabbing a quick smoke after work or indulging in something premium, pre-rolls offer a versatile experience. This is no surprise considering that 80% of global consumers reported changing their shopping habits to prioritize convenience.
Infused pre-rolls have taken center stage, accounting for 44.4% of the market by mid-2024. These are not just your standard joints; they come packed with potent concentrates or extra terpenes, giving users an elevated experience. Infused pre-rolls alone contributed $1.75 billion to total pre-roll sales in the last year and a half. This premium category is becoming the go-to for cannabis consumers seeking both potency and flavor.
As the pre-roll market grows, prices have actually gone down, creating even more accessibility. The average price dropped by 16.7%, from $7.80 in January 2023 to $6.50 by June 2024. Despite the falling prices, the demand has been soaring. The number of pre-rolls sold grew dramatically, with 26 million units sold in June 2024 alone, up from 15.9 million at the start of the year.
Multipack pre-rolls are also gaining traction, as they offer convenience and cost-effectiveness. By bundling multiple joints into one package, brands save on production, and consumers get better value for their money. Multipacks made up nearly 50% of pre-roll sales by mid-2024, with sales revenue jumping 43% in just 18 months.
Future growth in the pre-roll sector will likely continue to come from emerging cannabis markets. States like New York, Ohio, and Florida are poised to make significant contributions as they develop their cannabis industries. For instance, New York’s pre-roll market could hit $150 million annually, while Ohio is expected to surpass that number. Florida’s potential legalization in late 2024 could open a market that could rival California’s, currently the largest pre-roll market at $750 million.
Looking ahead, by 2030, pre-rolls are projected to account for 20% of the total cannabis market, potentially bringing in over $5 billion annually. As the sector continues to grow, product innovation will play a crucial role in keeping consumers engaged. We can expect to see even more sophisticated offerings, such as “best-by” dates on packaging and specially designed humidors to preserve freshness.
The U.S. pre-roll market is in full bloom. With increasing consumer demand for premium, ready-to-consume products and a surge in market share, pre-rolls are positioned to remain a core part of the cannabis industry. At Wojo Co., we focus on high-quality, carefully crafted pre-rolls, which makes them well-positioned to thrive in this expanding market. As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, pre-rolls, especially infused and multipack offerings, are set to become even more dominant, appealing to both new users and seasoned connoisseurs alike.
