A Deep Dive into Michigan’s Cannabis Sector Documentary

“Cannabusiness: Marijuana on Main Street,” a documentary by Bob Przybylski and Ron Beacom, offers a comprehensive look into Michigan’s cannabis industry. Set to air on Delta College Public Media on PBS at 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 23, the film takes viewers behind the scenes to understand the dynamics of the cannabis market in Michigan.

The project was born out of Bob Przybylski’s observation of cannabis’s prevalent role in Bay City, sparking a curiosity to explore beyond the visible signs and smells. Over 18 months, Przybylski and Beacom conducted in-depth interviews with various stakeholders in the cannabis industry, including business owners and workers and they visited cultivation sites. The film also includes footage from the Michigan CannaTech Expo and engages with local officials, law enforcement, psychologists, addiction specialists and residents to offer a rounded perspective on the industry’s impact on communities.

Ron Beacom says the documentary seeks to offer a comprehensive understanding of the topic, reflecting the community’s diverse opinions on cannabis.

This film comes after Przybylski and Beacom’s successful collaboration on “Breached! The Tittabawassee River Disaster,” which underscores their commitment to exploring important local issues. 

“Cannabusiness: Marijuana on Main Street” will also be publicly available on  DeltaPublicMedia.org. 

The Economic Impact of Michigan’s Cannabis Industry

Michigan’s cannabis industry has seen impressive growth in recent years. In 2023, the industry marked a milestone, with sales totaling $3.06 billion, a notable increase from the previous year. This growth positively affected the local economy, generating substantial tax revenue for state and local governments. With recreational cannabis sales accounting for a major portion of this total, the industry’s expansion has also led to the opening of 120 new dispensaries statewide.

The industry’s contribution to the economy through job creation and tax revenue highlights the importance of legal cannabis in Michigan’s economic landscape, which continues to evolve and adapt in response to various challenges.