Cannabis Business Times has launched the 2026 edition of its annual Best Cannabis Companies to Work For awards program, aimed at recognizing outstanding employers in the cannabis sector. This initiative is open to all cannabis businesses, including both plant-touching operators and ancillary services in the United States and Canada.
Noelle Skodzinski, founder and editorial director of Cannabis Business Times, stated that the program was introduced in 2020 to highlight companies that foster positive work environments. As the cannabis industry has expanded rapidly with increased legalization, it has also faced challenges, including high employee turnover rates. According to the 2023 Vangst Salary Guide, retail and cultivation sectors experience turnover rates exceeding 59% in the U.S. and 60% in Canada during 2021-2022, as reported by Headset.
Skodzinski emphasized that retaining top talent has become increasingly difficult, prompting companies to invest considerable resources in recruitment and training. The Best Cannabis Companies to Work For program aims to spotlight exemplary employers and their effective practices. This recognition not only honors these companies but also serves as a resource for others looking to cultivate supportive and engaging workplaces.
A Gallup report from 2024 revealed that employee engagement hit a 10-year low, underscoring the urgency for employers to create engaging environments. Engaged employees tend to show higher productivity, profitability, and customer loyalty. Additionally, they contribute to reduced incidents of employee theft and fewer quality defects, as noted in Gallup’s Q12 Employee Engagement Survey.
All cannabis companies interested in the awards can register before the October 3 deadline. In addition to the recognition, participating companies can purchase an Employee Feedback Data Dashboard from the Workforce Research Group. This tool offers aggregated employee feedback and benchmarks, assisting companies in enhancing their work environments.
Root & Bloom earned the top spot in the 2024 Best Cannabis Companies To Work For in the cultivation category, while PayRio was recognized as the best employer for 2025. Both companies exemplify the kind of workplace culture that the awards seek to promote.
The awards are based on a research-driven methodology conducted in partnership with the Workforce Research Group. Companies must complete a questionnaire regarding their workplace benefits and practices, while a percentage of their employees must respond to an anonymous survey. Notably, employee feedback accounts for 80% of the total score in the rankings.
Ranking companies will be featured by Cannabis Business Times and gain the right to display the program logo on their websites and in promotional materials. For more details, visit the Best Cannabis Companies to Work For – 2026 website.
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