THE MISSING LINK. LITERALLY.

Cannabis Dispensaries are struggling to capture new and also returning customers amid unlicensed retailers and delivery options that are wooing customers away with lower prices and recognizable products that have somehow ended up for sale in unsanctioned cannabis stores, also known as "Trap Shops" in many circles.

Competing with unlicensed shops is creating confusion with consumers, and frustration with licensed cannabis dispensary stakeholders.

There are also obvious issues associated with unlicensed cannabis shops which should also be weighed into the equation.

1. Premise/location safety: Stabbings, robberies and shootings happen in unlicensed locations more often than licensed locations, where there is licensed security, cameras and lighted parking areas required for customers.
2. Product safety, verifiability: Counterfeit cannabis products, products that are expired, products that did not pass minimal testing ect.
3. Illegal - untaxed products: No way to verify if the company is legitimate. Supporting illegitimate franchise/entity, often gang related .

How Can Cannabis Dispensaries Compete With Unlicensed Retailers and Delivery Services?

Engage with new potential customers and create trust by sharing your licensed cannabis dispensary journey!

Starting a blog that represents your cannabis dispensaries goals, initiatives and culture will help you win more customers.

A great cannabis retail dispensary blog?mostly covers topics like cannabis technology, trends, specials, Budtenders, payment options, mobile cannabis delivery options, cannabis brands supported, corporate news, volunteer opportunities, and the holidays.

Many dispensaries also write opinion pieces about retail, post industry events, have a job board, and produce their own podcast.

This all helps dispensaries bring in more customers, and create trust as well as strength loyalty.

How?

By creating a feeling with consumers that you care by posting, engaging and interacting in unison with the brands you sell and customers that support you already! You don't have to worry yourself about being "perfect" just start. Everything else will develop over time, it is a process and getting started is the hardest part.

Here are some blog topics for cannabis retailers to consider.

Blog Topics for Cannabis Retailers

1. Announce new cannabis products
2. Write product reviews & share customer feedback, stories and ideas
3. Solicit customer feedback and suggestions
4. Share customer product reviews
5. Discuss hot industry topics
6. Tie in products with wellness and self-care news
7. Promote special store events and demos
8. Write 'how-to' articles for cannabis product use, highlighting products for sale at dispensary

Blogging helps drive more sales by?boosting your brand awareness and improving the rankings of your product pages.

Creating a successful cannabis retailer voiced, consumer focused blog will help you to rank higher in search results when your customers are looking to buy from you.

If you need any pointers reach out to me, Jessica C. to learn more.

Do you have a great cannabis dispensary blog marketing tip?

Please share with others in the comments section!