The Top 10 Cannabis Marketing Mistakes Dispensaries Make

Cannabis marketing can make or break a dispensary, but many businesses stumble with it. Digital ads are the top choice, used by 83% of cannabis brands, followed by events at 34%, partnerships at 33%, and public relations at 28%. Within digital marketing, integrated ads lead the pack at 55%, with email coming in strong at 50% (New Frontier, 2022). Curious about the top 10 cannabis marketing blunders and how to steer clear of them?

1. Ignoring Local Laws

Cannabis marketing is regulated by strict laws. Ignoring these laws can result in fines or even closure. Always stay updated on local rules to ensure your marketing complies. This keeps you out of trouble and builds trust with your customers.

2. Weak Brand Identity

Without a strong brand identity, customers won’t connect with your dispensary. Your brand should show what makes you unique and why people should choose you. Spend time creating a memorable brand that stands out from the competition.

3. Skipping SEO

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) helps people find you online. Many dispensaries skip this step, leading to low website traffic. Use keywords like “cannabis marketing” in your website content to rank higher in search results and attract more visitors.

4. Neglecting Social Media

Social media is a powerful tool for cannabis marketing. Ignoring it means missing out on engaging with your audience. Be active on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to connect with customers and promote your products.

5. Ignoring Customer Reviews

Customer reviews can greatly impact your dispensary’s reputation. Ignoring them, especially negative ones, can harm your business. Always respond to reviews, thank customers for positive feedback, and address any issues in negative reviews.

6. Poor Website Experience

A poorly designed website can turn potential customers away. Make sure your website is easy to navigate, mobile-friendly, and provides essential information like product details, prices, and store hours. A good website improves your online presence and customer experience.

7. Lack of Content Marketing

Content marketing helps educate your audience and build trust. Many dispensaries fail to create valuable content like blog posts, videos, or infographics. Regularly produce high-quality content that answers common questions and shows your expertise in cannabis.

8. Overlooking Email Marketing

Email marketing is a direct way to reach your customers. Not collecting email addresses or sending regular newsletters means missing out on a key marketing channel. Use email marketing to share updates, promotions, and educational content with your audience.

9. Not Measuring Results

Without tracking your marketing efforts, you can’t know what works and what doesn’t. Use tools like Google Analytics to measure your campaigns’ effectiveness. Regularly review your data and adjust your strategies to improve results.

10. Ignoring Community Engagement

Engaging with your local community can boost your dispensary’s reputation and customer loyalty. Participate in local events, support community initiatives, and work with other local businesses. Building strong community ties can enhance your brand image and attract more customers.

Avoiding these common cannabis marketing mistakes can help your dispensary thrive. By staying compliant with laws, developing a strong brand identity, using SEO, engaging on social media, responding to reviews, creating valuable content, using email marketing, measuring results, and engaging with your community, you can enhance your marketing efforts and attract more customers.At Art of Strategy Consulting, a marketing agency in Dallas, Texas, we’re here to help. If you need assistance with your cannabis marketing strategies, contact us today to learn how we can support your business growth.