A provincial regulator is trying to gauge consumer and entrepreneurial interest in the licensing of new types of cannabis businesses, such as cafés that serve edibles and spas where topical cannabis products are applied.

"We are seeking the input of Manitobans to better understand their level of comfort with edible and ingestible cannabis products, licensed consumption spaces, and whether there is a desire for these types of businesses or services," said Kristianne Dechant, executive director and CEO of the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority of Manitoba (LGCA).

The authority is looking for feedback on whether there's interest in the licensing of establishments for cannabis consumption similar to the liquor licensing model for restaurants and lounges. It's also sounding out the public on the idea of issuing permits for cannabis consumption (although not smoking and vaping products) at social occasions — similar to what is now done with liquor.

No other provinces currently issue such licences, the LGCA said, although Ontario recently did research in the area and decided not to proceed.

Any change in cannabis licensing would require the approval of the Manitoba legislature.

The LGCA is working with Leger, a market research and analytics firm, to survey Manitobans on the issue. It has also posted a brief questionnaire on its website. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is not holding in-person consultations.

John Arbuthnot, CEO of Delta 9 Cannabis Inc., which produces and retails cannabis, said the consultations are a positive move.

"This is another opportunity, I think, for us to develop the licit markets in the way that gives us another tool in the tool belt to help stamp out the black market," he said in an interview.

New types of commercialization would further destigmatize cannabis products, he said.

Currently, cannabis smoking and vaping products make up more than 90 per cent of Delta 9's revenues, although sales of other products are also on the rise.

Arbuthnot said it remains to be seen whether it would be viable for an entrepreneur to open a coffee shop that only serves edibles and cannabis beverages. However, Delta 9 may be able to include a lounge serving edibles in one of its stores, he said.

"Are we at a point where there could be lounges dedicated to those limited product formats and still see the critical mass to make a viable business? I think (that's) less certain at this point," Arbuthnot said.