Chicago Pot Expo Proves That The Industry Is Far Reaching

Though marijuana is growing more and more popular throughout the US as several states have legalized medicinal and recreational use of the drug, the tight restrictions on growing and selling cannabis products has been barrier for entrepreneurs looking to enter the market. However, a

in Chicago last week proved that creative individuals are finding ways to get in on the green rush without actually selling marijuana.

Many states are enacting strict regulations on growers to limit the number of people who are licensed to sell marijuana to dispensaries. In New York, only five growing contracts are expected to be awarded, making dealing in pot very challenging.

Despite that, last week's expo featured some 162 stalls with firms trying to sell pot-themed accessories rather than the drug itself. Some companies are focusing on the end consumer with products like child proof containers, while others hope to help dispensary owners who have been bogged down by pot regulations. Companies making cash counting machines and heavy duty safes are all entering the marijuana market as most pot businesses are unable to engage with banks and lack a way to safely store their earnings.

Another growing market has been marijuana testing equipment. Studies showing that different strains of marijuana can have vastly different potencies and hallucinogenic effects have created a demand for better product labeling. Many laboratories have created testing services that give growers information about the make up of their plants.

The expo also highlighted the increasing population of health-conscious marijuana users as it featured a wide range of vaporizer pens— widely considered as a healthier alternative to smoking.