Cannabis Retail Blog / Cannabis Retail (5)

Proven Email and SMS Marketing Tips for Cannabis Dispensaries

By Faai Steuer on February 1, 2026

Cannabis dispensary jars display interior design

In cannabis retail, the competition is fierce and the rules never stop shifting. That’s where email and SMS marketing swoop in to change the game. Whether you want to delight new shoppers or remind your regulars why your shop feels like home, having a direct line to your customers’ ph …

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Why Are Dispensaries Cash-Only? Discover Cannabis Payment Options

By Faai Steuer on January 29, 2026

Gloved hand holding cannabis nugget

In a world filled with Venmo, tap-to-pay, and Apple Pay, why does cannabis still feel stuck in the cash era? Let’s dive into the real reasons and explore what’s changing for you and your customers.

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Cova Software Founder's POV: Where Cannabis Retail Is Headed in 2026

By Gary Cohen on January 26, 2026

Two Buds NY Dispensary

I’ve been in the cannabis industry for about nine years now. In that time, I’ve been deeply involved in the day-to-day reality of this business — talking with retailers, operators, tech partners, and yes, even competitors, almost every single day.

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Social Equity in Cannabis Retail: Essential Guide for New Owners

By Faai Steuer on January 20, 2026

Woman organizing products on shelves in store

For many, the journey begins with curiosity, hope, and a little bit of nerves, especially when it comes to snagging a coveted social equity license. This isn’t just paperwork; it’s about rewriting your own story in a shifting, often tricky industry. As someone who’s seen countless ent …

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From Legacy to Legal: How Two Buds Became the Bronx’s First Jamaican-Owned Dispensary

By Dayna Van Buskirk on January 16, 2026

Two Buds NY Dispensary

For Howell and Chris Miller, cannabis wasn’t a business plan or a brainstormed opportunity. It was simply a part of life.

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Top 5 Dispensary POS Systems in 2026: Pros & Cons

By Faai Steuer on January 5, 2026

Retail store tablet with product display

If you run a cannabis dispensary or hemp shop, you already know: there’s no room for tech headaches in 2026. You need a POS system you never have to second guess, one that powers your business and lets you focus on growing your brand, not fixing glitches. In this guide, I’ll cut throu …

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How the SAFE Banking Act Will Transform Dispensary Banking

By Faai Steuer on December 19, 2025

Cannabis dispensary payment with credit card

Navigating cannabis banking has never been for the faint of heart. If you’re running a dispensary, chances are you’ve felt the grind of running a business that’s legit in your state, yet can’t even open a bank account without jumping through flaming hoops. Well, there’s real hope comi …

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Cannabis POS eCommerce Integration Guide for Dispensaries

By Dayna Van Buskirk on December 19, 2025

Key Facts/Takeaways: Integrating cannabis POS with eCommerce is a must for modern-day dispensaries looking to deliver a seamless omnichannel experience. Integration helps eliminate overselling by showing out-of-stock product, reduces compliance risk, and drives more revenue. Cova POS …

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Customer Spotlight: How Sparq Brings Luxury Cannabis Retail to Life

By Dayna Van Buskirk on December 11, 2025

When Rob Brunsch and his partners founded Sparq dispensaries in 2020, they weren’t looking to simply compete in cannabis retail; they wanted to change the game. Coming from a luxury retail background, the partners envisioned a dispensary that would deliver the same caliber of customer …

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Cannabis Retail Tech Trends 2025: AI, Kiosks & Smart Stores

By Faai Steuer on November 26, 2025

Amsterdam cannabis store exterior in Naples Italy

The pace of change in the cannabis retail world can almost make your head spin. In 2025, what used to sound like science fiction is now just another day at your dispensary. If you’re running a shop or managing a multi-store brand, the real question is: how do you keep up and, more imp …

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How to Start a Cannabis Dispensary in Minnesota: Step-by-Step Guide

By Faai Steuer on November 23, 2025

Cannabis dispensary interior with customers browsing

So you’re thinking about opening your very own cannabis dispensary in Minnesota? You’re not alone - it’s a thrilling moment for enterprising folks like you. With Minnesota giving the green light to recreational cannabis in August 2023, lots of people have their eyes on this fresh hori …

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Cova vs. Flowhub: The Ultimate Dispensary POS Comparison

By Faai Steuer on November 21, 2025

Point-of-sale system in retail store

If you've ever felt bogged down sorting through countless cannabis POS systems, you’re not alone. Choosing the right technology partner can mean more than convenient sales - it can shape your shop’s reputation, customer loyalty, and your own peace of mind. If you’re weighing Cova vs. …

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