Delivery vs. Dispensary: Which is Better?
As the cannabis industry continues to boom through the roof, the miracle plant is becoming more accessible to consumers across the globe. The cannabis industry has come so far from the years of prohibition. These days, consumers can walk into a dispensary to purchase cannabis and cannabis-related products with ease. Consumers can also have cannabis delivered directly to their doorstep courtesy of their preferred dispensary! This new method of acquiring cannabis has raised a debate: Is it better to get cannabis from the dispensary or to have it delivered?
Advantages of Cannabis Delivery Services
When it comes to cannabis delivery services, there are countless reasons why consumers would prefer a 'dab-to-door' service. Cannabis delivery services offer promotions and loyalty programs comparable to those found in dispensaries (i.e., BOGOs, discount after x number of visits, etc.). Moreover, most dispensaries have a chance to get in on the advantages of delivery services. This is because most cannabis delivery services acquire cannabis for the consumer from a local dispensary a la Ubereats or Grubhub. It is also worth noting that some dispensaries offer direct delivery (think Pizza Hut, Papa John's) of their products, which is a major advantage. It is also worth noting that cannabis delivery services have experienced a severe uptick in service since the COVID-19 pandemic has forced millions to stay home. This also brings up the point that consumers may be utilizing cannabis delivery services because they have to.
Advantages of Dispensary
There are also advantages to purchasing cannabis at a local dispensary. One key advantage is the amount of information you can gain from a budtender, which is a knowledgeable employee who helps consumers find the perfect strain of cannabis tailored to their needs. Additionally, the experience of purchasing cannabis from a dispensary is still unmatched. This is because (like most retail businesses) the marketing strategy embodies great visuals and aromatherapy to make the consumer feel more comfortable with purchasing a once-taboo product. Moreover, the promotions and advertising inside a dispensary are unique. Consumers are more likely to receive better deals and promotions when shopping for cannabis at a dispensary. This is likely due to dispensaries having really strict ad laws when displaying visuals outside of the place of business.
Disadvantages associated with Dispensaries
One of the main disadvantages associated with acquiring cannabis from dispensaries is pricing. Most dispensaries offer constant promotions and competitive pricing to encourage as much foot traffic as possible. However, most consumers feel cannabis is fairly expensive. Moreover, dispensaries are at quite a disadvantage amidst the current COVID-19 pandemic. Despite dispensaries and cannabis delivery services being deemed essential by governments, consumers currently have no interest in entering a dispensary during the current 'stay home initiative.' The scare of the coronavirus has not been good to retailers and business operators, including dispensaries.
Disadvantages of getting Cannabis Delivered
When it comes to the disadvantages of utilizing a cannabis delivery service, there virtually are none! With the help of mobile apps, a cannabis delivery service can streamline their line-up as well as specifics such as:
THC or CBD percentage
Verified user strain reviews
Promotions and coupons not available at dispensaries
Which is Better?
When it comes to cannabis delivery services versus walk-in dispensaries, there is one true answer: cannabis delivery services blow brick and mortar dispensaries out of the water. Although consumers are thankful for cannabis dispensary experiences, nothing compares to having fresh buds of cannabis delivered right to your doorstep! As technology becomes more advanced every year, members of the cannabis industry, such as cannabis delivery services will continue to be far more superior to physical dispensaries.