Psilocybin retail stores in Canada: Changes in availability, commercialization, and geographic distribution

Area of Science:

• Psychoactive substance research
• Canadian drug policy
• Market analysis of illicit goods

Background:

• Psychedelic use is increasing in Canada.
• Non-medical psilocybin sales are illegal under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
• A grey market for psilocybin retailers has emerged.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine changes in the number of Canadian psilocybin retail stores between 2024 and 2025.
• To analyze the composition and geographic distribution of these stores.
• To understand the evolving landscape of the psilocybin market.

Main Methods:

• Repeated cross-sectional assessment of psilocybin retail stores with physical storefronts in Canada.
• Systematic Google and Google Maps searches conducted from May 2024 to July 2025.
• Data collection on store location, operating status, chain affiliation, product offerings, per capita availability, and geographic clustering.

Main Results:

• The number of psilocybin retail stores increased by 33% (57 to 75) between 2024 and 2025.
• Store turnover was high (52.6% closure rate), with 48 new stores opening.
• Two large chains dominated 44% of the market, primarily located in Ontario and British Columbia.
• Products often mimicked commercial snack brands, and 49% of online listings advertised additional psychoactive substances.

Conclusions:

• The Canadian psilocybin retail market shows substantial expansion despite federal prohibition.
• Key characteristics include rapid turnover, chain dominance, product mimicry, and geographic concentration.
• The grey market poses risks of unregulated products and unverified health claims, necessitating continued surveillance and policy discussion.