The latest survey data compiled by New Frontier Data brings promising insights for smoke shop and dispensary owners in the United States. It turns out that the majority of consumers in jurisdictions where adult-use cannabis is legal prefer obtaining their marijuana from brick-and-mortar retailers.
According to the survey, an impressive 52 percent of respondents reported that they primarily sourced their cannabis products from physical establishments. In contrast, only six percent of consumers residing in legal states said they primarily purchased cannabis from a “dealer.” Additionally, nearly one-third of respondents mentioned obtaining cannabis from friends or family, taking advantage of the legal provision that allows gifting cannabis without any remuneration in adult-use states.
The data also highlights a national trend, with 43 percent of current consumers stating that they obtained their cannabis from retailers. This represents a significant increase from 34 percent recorded just one year ago. The survey authors suggest that individuals residing in states where cannabis remains illegal often travel to neighboring legal states to purchase cannabis products and bring them back home.
NORML’s Deputy Director, Paul Armentano, commented on these findings, stating, “These data indicate that the legal, regulated cannabis market is displacing the underground marketplace. Over time, consumers are becoming more comfortable with and reliant upon licensed retailers – who offer greater convenience, product quality, and safety.”
These insights signal positive prospects for smoke shop and dispensary owners, affirming the growing acceptance and preference for legal cannabis retailers among consumers. It’s essential to continue prioritizing convenience, quality, and safety to further establish your business as a trusted source in the evolving cannabis landscape.
To capitalize on this trend and attract more consumers to your smoke shop or dispensary, consider the following strategies:
- Diversify Product Selection: Stay ahead of the competition by offering a wide range of high-quality cannabis products. Cater to different consumer preferences and needs, including various strains, edibles, concentrates, topicals, and accessories. Continuously update your inventory to keep customers coming back for more.
- Personalized Recommendations: Train your staff to provide personalized recommendations based on individual preferences and desired effects. Encourage them to actively listen to customers, ask questions, and offer tailored suggestions. By providing a personalized experience, you can build trust and loyalty among your customer base.
- Select Reliable and Quality-Oriented Vendors: Prioritize vendors who offer reliable and high-quality cannabis products. Conduct thorough research, seek recommendations, and evaluate their reputation in the industry. Choose vendors known for consistency, product safety, and adherence to regulatory standards.
