Calgary's High Tide Goes Global: Big Business, Local Impact.
People are talking about High Tide Inc. stepping onto the global stage from our own backyard. It’s a local win with big implications for our economy and community. But as they grow, how do we balance progress with local concerns?
Our very own Calgary-based High Tide Inc., the powerhouse behind the familiar Canna Cabana cannabis dispensaries you see dotted across our city, is making major waves on the international stage. This December, the company announced its participation in the exclusive ICR Conference in sunny Orlando, Florida, a move that signals a significant validation for a local enterprise growing into a global player. For Calgarians, this isn't just news about a business trip; it's about how a local success story is shaping the future of retail, and what that means for our neighbourhoods, our economy, and even our streets.
High Tide's presence at the invitation-only ICR Conference, where CEO Raj Grover is slated for a fireside chat on January 13, 2026, isn't just about selling cannabis. It's about cementing its reputation as a sophisticated, scaled retail platform with robust fundamentals, recognized by some of the world's most discerning institutional investors. What does this mean for you, the average Calgarian? It signifies a local company attracting significant investment and expanding its influence, potentially bringing more jobs and economic activity back to the city. Canna Cabana, a wholly-owned subsidiary of High Tide, isn't just a handful of shops; it's Canada's largest cannabis retail chain, boasting 218 domestic locations and holding a substantial 12% market share across provinces including our own Alberta. They pioneered the world's first cannabis discount club retailer right here in 2021 and, in 2025, became the first North American cannabis operator to establish a physical presence in Germany through Remexian Pharma GmbH. These are local innovations impacting global markets, and the company’s consistent recognition as one of Canada's Top Growing Companies underscores this trajectory.
However, as High Tide celebrates its ascent, it’s crucial to remember the ground-level realities back home in Calgary. The proliferation of cannabis retailers, while a sign of industry growth, also brings its own set of community concerns. Our City of Calgary Business Licence Bylaw and Land Use Bylaw, alongside provincial AGLC regulations, strictly govern where these stores can operate, including crucial separation distances from schools and other sensitive areas. [cite: Local Context] These rules directly influence the urban fabric of our wards. We've heard voices like Terry Wong, executive director of the Chinatown District Business Improvement Area, express concerns that the presence of cannabis stores might clash with local cultural values and negatively impact other businesses. [cite: Local Context]
Moreover, the burgeoning industry has unfortunately become a target for crime. Calgary experienced a concerning rise in robberies targeting cannabis retailers, with 29 incidents in 2021 and 10 in early 2022 alone. Nearly half of these involved violence or threats, posing a direct threat to public safety for employees and nearby residents. [cite: Local Context] So, while High Tide’s global ambition is a source of local pride, it also highlights the ongoing balancing act between economic growth, community concerns, and public safety that plays out daily on Calgary’s streets.
The bottom line for Calgarians is this: a local company is reaching new heights, expanding its footprint and attracting global attention. This success reflects well on Calgary's innovative spirit. Yet, as our local businesses thrive on an international scale, it also serves as a critical reminder that the impact of industry growth is felt most profoundly at home, requiring continued dialogue and vigilance to ensure that progress benefits all citizens, from Deerfoot Trail to The Bow and beyond.
