The fifth annual Ohio Cannabis Health & Business Summit took place at Cleveland’s IX Center from October 3-4, 2025, attracting thousands of cannabis consumers, medical patients, and industry professionals. This year’s event featured over 70 speakers and 150 exhibitors, drawing approximately 5,000 attendees, according to founder and CEO Lenny Berry. A significant point of discussion was the recent surge in popularity of pre-rolled cannabis products following a regulatory update by the Ohio Department of Cannabis Control.
The introduction of pre-rolled joints has generated excitement within the industry. In August, the Department revised its guidance, allowing sales of these products for the first time since recreational cannabis sales began. “They’ve done that really, really well,” noted Alisha Batac, senior marketing manager at Cincinnati’s King City Gardens. “It’s been in high demand. When we’re competing against other markets in different states, that was the one thing we didn’t have.”
Initially, pre-rolls were excluded from product offerings such as flower, vapes, and edibles. However, after a year of sales, the Department’s decision to permit pre-rolls has been welcomed by both consumers and producers. Spenser Nikitin, team training manager at Akron-based Klutch Cannabis, expressed appreciation for the Department’s adaptability, stating, “Pre-rolls are finally here, and people have been waiting for that.” He emphasized the convenience for consumers who prefer not to roll their own joints.
While pre-rolls are selling rapidly, they present challenges for producers. “Early results are they’re flying off the shelves,” said Jared Maloof, CEO of Standard Wellness, which operates in multiple states including Ohio. He noted that the introduction of pre-rolls adds complexity to production, as additional regulations and guidelines must be followed. “But ultimately, it leads to a more robust marketplace,” he added.
The growth of Ohio’s adult-use cannabis market has been gradual but consistent. Since launching in 2024, the state has surpassed $700 million in recreational sales, generating over $62.4 million in tax revenue through a 10% tax on sales. Now, Ohio boasts 170 licensed dispensaries, 37 cultivators, and eight testing laboratories, as reported by the Department.
“There was a learning curve when the adult-use market opened,” commented Daniel Kessler, CEO of Riviera Creek in Youngstown. He acknowledged the initial confusion among consumers regarding the legality of purchasing cannabis. As more dispensaries opened and consumer awareness increased, the market began to flourish.
The state’s licensed testing laboratories play a critical role in ensuring product safety. “We believe in high testing because we want quality products on the market,” said Brian Kessler, chairman of the board at Riviera Creek. This commitment to rigorous testing standards is essential for maintaining consumer trust in the evolving market.
As the summit concluded, it marked the last event at the IX Center for the foreseeable future. Due to uncertainties surrounding the venue, the Ohio Cannabis Health & Business Summit will relocate to Columbus in 2026. Berry, a Cleveland native, founded the summit in 2019, and the event has been held in Cleveland since its inception. Next year, the summit is scheduled for September 23-24 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center.
Exhibitors are optimistic about the move to Columbus, anticipating strong turnout. Dameon Winlock, executive sales associate at OCHBS, noted that many exhibitors are eager to participate. “If you want to network and get educated on cannabis, this is the place to be,” he stated, highlighting the summit’s importance in the industry.
The Ohio Cannabis Health & Business Summit continues to serve as a vital platform for education and networking, reflecting the ongoing growth and evolution of the cannabis industry in the state.