Cannabis Pre-Rolls Set To Hit $4 Billion By 2025: Will US Market Follow Canada's Lead?

Custom Cones USA is predicting a major shift in the cannabis industry, as pre-roll sales are expected to surpass those of traditional flower products in the U.S. This trend has already been observed in Canada, setting the stage for similar growth in the American market. The move toward pre-rolls is driven by convenience, evolving consumer preferences, and ongoing efforts to improve quality.

Convenience and Quality Drive Demand

Fredrik Rading, COO and co-founder of Custom Cones USA, attributes this shift to consumer demand for ready-to-use products. “If you can get a joint or a pre-roll of equivalent quality to what you roll at home, it becomes a matter of why roll it yourself,” he told Benzinga. This sentiment is echoed by many consumers, particularly younger users who favor convenience over the traditional method of rolling joints.

As the pre-roll market has expanded, quality has also improved. Initially, pre-rolls were seen as an afterthought, with loose fillings and lower-grade materials. Rading noted that this perception has shifted as companies began using higher-quality flower in pre-rolls, leading to a better product. “We're seeing pre-rolls taking more market share as consumers recognize the quality improvements,” Rading said.

Infused Pre-Rolls and Enhanced Products

Another primary driver of pre-roll sales is the popularity of infused products, which combine cannabis flower with concentrates for a stronger effect. According to Rading, infused pre-rolls account for a large portion of the market. “Consumers are looking for higher potency, and infused pre-roll fits that need while still being convenient,” he said.

Custom Cones USA has responded to this demand by developing products with added features, such as glass or wood tips, which enhance the smoking experience. These additions not only improve the taste and smoothness of the product but also justify a higher price point. “The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many consumers noting that the tips actually improve the flavor,” Rading said.

Research and Regulation: Ensuring Safety and Consistency

Custom Cones USA has also made strides in safety and standardization. The company is working with the Science of Smokeability initiative to study various aspects of pre-rolls, including infusion methods, smoke temperature, and burn time. "We had so many unanswered questions," Rading said, adding that the goal is to provide data that can guide industry standards.

The company is also collaborating with the ASTM Standards Board to establish guidelines for pre-roll production, focusing on paper types, filters, and overall safety. “Nobody has defined what is safe to smoke with cannabis, so we're trying to establish those guidelines before federal regulations come into play,” Rading said.

Future Outlook for Pre-Rolls in the U.S.

With Canada's pre-roll market already surpassing flower sales, Rading expects similar growth in the U.S. “We see pre-rolls being a $4 billion industry by 2025,” he said. As more states legalize cannabis and new markets emerge, the demand for convenient and high-quality products like pre-rolls is likely to increase.

Custom Cones USA is optimistic about the future. To stay ahead in a rapidly expanding market, it will continue to focus on innovation, education, and product quality. “Pre-rolls are here to stay,” Rading added, pointing to consumer preference and ongoing research as indicators of sustained growth.

---

Don’t miss your chance to be part of Cannabis Market Spotlight: California in Anaheim on Nov. 12. Whether you want to connect with industry leaders, explore investment opportunities, or gain the latest insights into California’s cannabis market, this event has it all. Secure your spot today!

Get Benzinga’s exclusive analysis and the top news about the cannabis industry and markets daily in your inbox for free. Subscribe to our newsletter here. You can’t afford to miss out if you’re serious about the business.

Read Next:

• $8B Market On The Brink: Texas Senator Calls It ‘Uncontrollable,’ Proposes Erasing Hemp

Photo: Courtesy of Elsa Olofsson on Unsplash