Regina’s first marijuana shop could open by November

Construction is ramping up on what could be the first legal marijuana retail store to open within the City of Regina.

Wiid Boutique was not open in time for legalization day but put up its exterior sign and received its building permit from the city.

Contractors are now on site working on things like the walls, wiring, plumbing and building the steel safe where the marijuana will be stored.

“We plan on working tirelessly throughout the weekend,” said co-owner Landyn Uhersky.

If all goes well and the store passes further city and SLGA inspections, Uhersky hopes they can open in one-and-a-half to two weeks.

Wiid Boutique will also have 20 high-end security cameras, including both heat and motion cameras. Uhersky said they can’t receive shipments of marijuana products until SLGA gives the approval on security measures.

When customers walk through the doors, they’ll first see a reception desk where they’ll be asked to present their ID. It will be a first-come, first-served basis. Customers who’d like assistance from a budtender can put their name on a board to enter a queue as they browse.

“Just first name, no last names and we won’t keep the records of that,” Uhersky said.

Wiid Boutique will also sell accessories but don’t expect a wide selection. Uhersky explained it’s just enough to get customers started because they don’t want to compete with existing businesses like head shops.

Uhersky also described a friendly relationship with other marijuana retail stores like Eden near Pilot Butte. He said members of his ownership group stopped by that store when it opened on Wednesday. He said they’re willing to help each other, possibly buying product in a group to help bring the prices down.

Uhersky believes the high prices are due to supply and demand but expects them to drop soon.

“I think the high prices are because of people going to wholesalers who mark up the product,” he said.

Wiid Boutique is looking at prices under $10 per gram for the majority of its products once it opens.

The retail store will have two to four suppliers to start but Uhersky said the focus will eventually turn to locally-made marijuana. He said they’re looking for people in Saskatchewan that want to become licensed producers. He’s been in talks with some who just started building but those don’t expect the product to be ready until the spring.