Minnesota cannabis retailers face shortages due to testing lab closure

William Drexler, owner of Grey Area on Grand Avenue in St. Paul, is facing delays in receiving adult-use cannabis products. The issue stems from testing backlogs, which have disrupted supply chains for retailers like his. Drexler has contacted growers directly to check on product availability and delivery times. Since obtaining his license a few months ago, he has not received pre-rolls, flowers, or vape pens. Vendors have been unable to provide clear time frames for deliveries due to ongoing testing delays.

The situation has worsened with the closure of one of Minnesota’s five cannabis testing sites. Legends Technical Services announced it was shutting down, citing exorbitant costs as the primary reason. The company stated it could no longer meet client expectations under the current regulatory framework in a financially sustainable way.

WCCO has sought comment from Minnesota’s Office of Cannabis Management regarding the growing backlog. Drexler expects further delays now that a key testing facility has ceased operations. The closure of Legends Technical Services will likely increase pressure on the remaining testing sites. Retailers like Drexler may continue to experience shortages until the backlog is resolved. The state’s cannabis management office has yet to respond to requests for clarification on the issue.