What’s changing on May 1, 2026

On May 1, 2026, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) updated its rules for cannabis retail, allowing licensed stores to open as early as 7:00 AM — two hours earlier than the previous 9:00 AM start. The change followed a public consultation in April 2026 and is designed to give Ontario’s licensed retailers more flexibility and align cannabis hours more closely with alcohol retail.

We Store is using part of that new window to extend our opening to 8:00 AM at all Ontario locations. Rather than treat the early hour as just “more selling time,” we’re dedicating 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM specifically to customers who shop better in a quieter, lower-stimulation environment.

Who this is for

We designed low-sensory hours with two groups especially in mind, but everyone is welcome.

Neurodivergent customers

If you’re autistic, have ADHD, sensory processing differences, or simply find busy retail environments overwhelming, the standard dispensary experience — bright lights, layered music, fast-talking staff, beeping POS systems — can be a lot. Low-sensory hours strip those layers out. The store is still a store, but it’s one that doesn’t ask your nervous system to work overtime just to buy a product you already came in for.

Anyone who values an accessible, calm shopping experience

Low-sensory hours aren’t just for one group. They’re for the parent stopping in before school drop-off who doesn’t want to start the day with loud music. They’re for shift workers wrapping up at 7:30 AM. They’re for customers with migraines, anxiety, PTSD, or chronic pain. And they’re for anyone who simply prefers a quieter, more thoughtful retail visit.

Accessibility benefits everyone.

What to expect on your first low-sensory visit

• Walk in like normal. There’s no separate entrance and no sign-in.
• Take your time. Browse the floor, read labels, and ask questions when you’re ready.
• Tell us what you need. If you’d prefer no small talk, want recommendations written down instead of explained verbally, or need to step outside and come back, just say the word.
• Bring support. Care partners and support persons are welcome.
• Use online ordering for a faster trip. Pre-order online and pick up during low-sensory hours for the shortest, calmest visit possible.

Why we’re doing this

The We Store has always been a wellness-oriented community-rooted Ontario retailer. We operate in Windsor, Sarnia, and Belle River, and our customers are our neighbours. We’ve heard for years from regulars — and from people who’d love to be regulars but find the standard retail environment difficult — that a calmer hour would change the experience entirely.

The AGCO’s expanded hours gave us the operational room to do it without shortening the day for anyone else. Nothing is being taken away. We’re simply adding an hour, and giving that hour over to the customers who need it most.