Alimentation Couche-tard, a Canadian multinational operator of convenience stores, invested $26m in Fire & Flower, a leading independent cannabis retailer based in Edmonton, Alberta. The investment will give the firm a 10% stake. "Couche-Tard is excited to make this strategic investment in one of the fastest growing cannabis 'pure-play' retailers," said Brian Hannasch, President and CEO of Couche‑Tard. "This investment in Fire & Flower, with a path to a controlling stake, will enable us to leverage their leadership, network and advanced digital platform to accelerate our journey in this new and flourishing sector."