Chicago's United Center to Offer Cannabis Drinks at Concerts
The United Center, the iconic home of the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks, is set to introduce THC-infused beverages at special events, marking a significant shift in arena concessions. This move could potentially inspire other venues across the country to follow suit, as experts suggest it may pave the way for broader acceptance in the entertainment and sports industries.
Legal Framework and Initial Rollout
These cannabis drinks can be sold outside of state-licensed recreational dispensaries because they fall under the hemp-derived cannabis market, which is currently legal at the federal level. According to Rich Schepp, general manager of beverage at Green Thumb Industries, infused beverages from the Illinois cannabis brand Rythm and Señorita will debut at the Boyz II Men concert on 4 February. Prices are expected to align with other premium spirits at the United Center, typically ranging from $15 to $20.
Challenges and Opportunities for Expansion
While the initial rollout is focused on concerts, expanding to sporting events faces hurdles. Schepp noted that discussions with sports leagues are necessary, as the NHL currently prohibits THC products at its games. However, he expressed optimism that this stance might change in the near future. Green Thumb Industries, headquartered in Chicago, has been engaging with venues across Cook County, with the United Center being a particularly exciting partner due to its prominence.
Concert venues are eager to participate, Schepp explained, because they recognise that attendees often arrive already under the influence of cannabis. "Whether it's consuming cannabis or an edible before they head into a venue or bar, we all know that's happening," he said. Venues may not favour smoking on-site, but they acknowledge consumer demand for cannabis products and see an opportunity to profit from this trend.
Safety and Regulatory Considerations
Many venues are unaware that THC drinks can be legally sold outside dispensaries, but once informed, conversations quickly turn to safety. Schepp emphasises that hemp-derived THC is fundamentally the same as cannabis-derived THC, but the source affects market pathways. Key discussions involve ensuring customers don't confuse THC beverages with alcoholic drinks or juices, necessitating staff training to communicate this clearly.
Dr Peter Grinspoon, a cannabis specialist and instructor at Harvard Medical School, highlighted the importance of preventing driving under the influence, similar to concerns with alcohol. His primary safety worry is that people might mix THC and alcohol, increasing impairment, especially in high-energy settings like sporting events. However, he suggested THC beverages could enhance safety by reducing belligerence compared to alcohol, as overconsumption tends to make people quieter rather than louder.
Potential Legal Hurdles and Future Outlook
The sale of THC beverages at the United Center might face challenges if a hemp ban, included in last year's discretionary spending bill, takes effect as planned next November. Jonathan Miller, general counsel for the US Hemp Roundtable, noted that states often defy federal cannabis laws, and Chicago has already made exceptions for THC drinks despite banning other intoxicating hemp products. Legislation to delay the hemp ban has been introduced in Congress, with a real possibility of passage within weeks, potentially securing the future of such offerings.
This development at the United Center represents a pioneering step in integrating cannabis products into mainstream entertainment venues, with implications for consumer behaviour, safety protocols, and regulatory landscapes across the United States.
