Purchasing cannabis dispensaries online is an increasing convenience for consumers. Retail best practices call for a separate, online-order-only terminal within the dispensary to allow online-order staff to complete orders without interrupting budtenders dealing with in-store customers. Some online-order systems also integrate with third-party marketplaces like Weedmaps and Leafly to reach more customers.

Most dispensaries include the option to purchase marijuana products online for in-store pickup or delivery. They may also offer customer loyalty rewards and incentives like free gifts or membership benefits for referring friends.

Exploring the Thriving Cannabis Shop Scene in Canada: A Guide to Your Options

Many customers remain skeptical of purchasing cannabis products online, especially if the store does not provide verification that they are of legal age. Providing detailed product descriptions and accurate ingredients on the website is one way to alleviate this concern. The use of high-quality, clear, and consistent photos of each product is also helpful. Humans are 90% visual, and pixelated or blurry images can detract from the overall user experience.

Dispensary ecommerce sites are a good place to implement social media plugins to help engage customers and promote new products. Having an active Facebook or Instagram account and linking it to your dispensary’s website can also increase visibility for your business.

It is important to encourage customers to leave reviews online after their purchases. 88 percent of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations, so it is important to generate positive feedback. You can do this by providing exceptional customer service and creating an environment that inspires your customers to support you and advocate for you in their community.