Arizona’s Pre-Roll Revolution: Blazing Trails in the Cannabis Market

Written by Custom Cones Usa

In the sun-soaked state of Arizona, a new kind of heat is rising – the sizzling growth of the cannabis pre-roll market. Since the legalization of recreational use in 2021, the Grand Canyon State has become a powerhouse in the cannabis industry, with pre-roll sales soaring to unprecedented heights. Let’s dive into the data and explore the factors driving this explosive growth.

 Skyrocketing Sales: Arizona’s Pre-Roll Market Takes Off

The numbers don’t lie – Arizona’s pre-roll market is on fire. In the past year alone, pre-roll sales have surpassed a staggering $200 million, cementing the state’s position as a top player in the cannabis industry. This places Arizona fifth among tracked U.S. states, an impressive feat for a relatively new recreational market.

To put this growth into perspective, consider this: when recreational sales began in January 2021, monthly pre-roll sales were a modest $4.3 million. Fast forward to June 2024, and that figure has more than tripled to $15.1 million per month. 

For context, Arizona ranked seventh in total cannabis sales revenue by state for the past year, raking in over $1.25 billion from July 2023-June 2024 according to cannabis data platform Headset.io

So, while pre-rolls rank as the third biggest category in the state behind flower and vapor pens, their growth rate is outpacing the overall local cannabis market. 

Market Share: Pre-Rolls Claim Their Throne

Pre-roll sales aren’t just growing – they’re claiming an ever-larger slice of the cannabis pie. Since Arizona entered the legal cannabis market, an astounding 49.3 million pre-roll units have been sold, accounting for nearly a quarter (24%) of all cannabis products sold in the state through June 2024.

Arizona Pre-Roll Sales & Market Share 2021-2024 (source: Headset.io)

What’s even more impressive is the steady climb in market share. In January 2021, pre-rolls held 4.9% of the market. By June 2024, that figure had more than tripled to 16.7%. The past year has seen an even steeper climb, with market share jumping from 14.7% in June 2023 to an average of 16.4% for the first six months of 2024.

 The Rise of Infused Pre-Rolls: A Game-Changer

One of the most significant trends driving the pre-roll revolution in Arizona is the rise of infused pre-rolls. These potent products, which combine flower with cannabis concentrate, have captured the hearts (and wallets) of consumers across the state.

 The ‘Connoisseur/Infused’ segment overtook the traditional ‘Hybrid – Single Strain’ category in June 2022 and hasn’t looked back since. Sales of infused pre-rolls have skyrocketed from a mere $490,000 in January 2021 to an impressive $9 million in June 2024.

This surge in popularity can be attributed to the evolving tastes of cannabis consumers. As users become more sophisticated, they’re seeking out products that offer enhanced potency and more complex flavor profiles. Infused pre-rolls deliver on both fronts, providing a premium experience that justifies their higher price point.

 Leading Brands: Who’s Lighting Up the Market?

In the competitive world of Arizona pre-rolls, several brands have risen to the top. Based on sales data from 2023 and the first half of 2024, here are the top five brands dominating the market:

1. Jeeter: $86,393,746

2. House Brand (Dispensary-owned): $30,771,404

3. STIIIZY: $27,075,794

4. Tumble: $9,115,451

5. Leafers: $7,604,647

Jeeter has established itself as the undisputed leader, known for its high-quality, potent pre-rolls that offer a premium experience. STIIIZY, with its sleek branding and diverse product range, has also carved out a significant market share.

Interestingly, House Brands – products grown and sold by dispensaries in their own stores – rank second in sales. This highlights the strength of vertically integrated businesses in the Arizona cannabis market.

The Rise of Pre-Rolls

The rise of pre-rolls isn’t unique to Arizona, as pre-roll sales are climbing the charts across the U.S. Nationally, pre-rolls rank as the third biggest cannabis category in 2024 according to Headset.io.

For businesses, pre-rolls present a profitable opportunity to expand product lines. As a popular add-on, pre-rolls provide a steady revenue stream and opportunity to appeal to a variety of consumers. 

Businesses looking to cash in on pre-rolls have no shortage of options to choose from – from white, brown, and hemp paper pre rolled cones to blunt cones of all sizes.

On the consumer side, pre-rolls offer a convenient and customizable smoke experience. The low cost and variety of paper, sizes, and package sizes make pre-rolls highly appealing to consumers. The availability of high-quality pre rolled cones and a diverse array of blunt cones empowers consumers to create their own premium smoking experiences at home. 

This DIY approach not only offers cost savings but also allows for personalization of the cannabis experience, a trend that’s likely to grow alongside the booming pre-roll market.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Arizona’s Pre-Roll Market

As Arizona’s pre-roll market continues to evolve, we can expect to see further innovations and market shifts. The dominance of infused pre-rolls is likely to continue, with brands competing to create ever more potent and flavorful products.

One thing is certain: Arizona’s pre-roll market is far from reaching its peak. As consumer preferences continue to evolve and new innovations hit the market, we can expect this segment of the cannabis industry to keep thriving in the Grand Canyon State.