Stepping into the cannabis retail world these days feels a lot different than it did just a few years ago, doesn’t it? Technology, customer habits, and even shopping preferences are shifting fast. If you run a dispensary, you’ve probably noticed there’s no longer a simple choice between selling online or in-store - instead, you’re juggling touchpoints every time a customer connects with your brand. At Cova, we chat with business owners daily who want to do more than just keep up - they want to create seamless experiences that make every customer feel at home, whether they walk in or order from their couch. So, let’s talk about how bringing your online and physical worlds together using omnichannel cannabis retail can truly set you apart.
The pandemic kicked digital adoption into high gear, but cannabis customers today expect options - sometimes they’ll swing by the shop, other times they just want to browse and reserve from their phone. Digital tools aren’t a fancy extra anymore - they’re a must-have. Still, your store’s front door remains an essential gateway, especially for newcomers or folks feeling a bit unsure about cannabis.
Leading dispensaries focus on omnichannel strategies - unique experiences that flow smoothly from mobile app to online menu to the sales counter. Got Cova’s eCommerce solution? That means your real-time inventory matches your online store perfectly, letting customers browse, reserve, or set up pickup and delivery without a hitch.
Almost 90% of cannabis shoppers research their options online before even thinking about stepping into a store. Your website and digital menus are your new handshake. Key features like up-to-date product lists, live menu integrations (think Weedmaps and Leafly), and mobile order options aren’t just nice extras; they’re the basics that set you apart.
If your digital experience is clunky or outdated, chances are you’re losing people before they even consider coming by. Make that online journey slick, smooth, and accurate - or someone else will step in and welcome your missed customers.
Despite the digital surge, your brick-and-mortar shop is far from obsolete. Loads of customers, especially those new to cannabis, value the ability to talk to a real person. Our research shows products that benefit from personal touch - like tinctures or concentrates - often seal the deal in-store. Here’s what you can’t beat with a screen:
Plus, new tech like in-store QR codes and self-serve kiosks is helping bridge any gaps, moving customers smoothly from digital exploration to hands-on experience. Agilence highlights how digital tools enrich customer education, whether they're browsing at home or in your shop.
"Buy Online, Pick Up In Store" (BOPIS), curbside pickup, and (where you can run it legally!) delivery services have redefined what convenience even means. UZIO’s analysis makes it clear: this isn’t a fleeting fad - it’s what customers expect now. Why do people love it?
Sure, delivery is still tricky in certain states, but BOPIS and curbside are here for good. That hybrid approach lets people research when they want, but pick up their goods when it works for them. Not too shabby if you ask me.
This all comes together thanks to robust technology. With Cova’s POS, every sale - online or in-store - flows through the same system, syncing data instantly. Scan inventory, track sales patterns, personalize promotions, and make sure you’re always compliant - it’s all right there:
Digging into the data reveals which products pop online versus which need more hands-on explanation. Find those sweet spots, and you stop guessing - start winning.
While price and product selection still matter, most cannabis customers stick around for one reason: how you make them feel. Vetrina Group - and yep, our own numbers - show that today’s cannabis shoppers keep returning where they feel understood and appreciated. Consider beefing up personalization with a dispensary CRM. Automate those little touches that make big impressions.
No one’s pretending the switch to omnichannel is all smooth sailing. Here’s what usually trips folks up:
As Retail Technology Innovation Hub points out, understanding which customers prefer what (and when) helps you target your tools and resources for the biggest impact.
If this is your first crack at omnichannel, you don’t have to go it alone. Dive into Cova’s resource hub for guides and templates built just for operators like you.
Cannabis shoppers don’t want to pick between online ordering and in-store visits - they want both, and they expect you to offer a smooth experience at every step. Building a strong omnichannel strategy makes your business nimble, builds deep loyalty, and helps you stay ahead in a wild, fast-moving market. Ready to see how Cova can help you take the next step? Book a demo today and discover how our tools grow with you - helping you serve your customers (and let’s be real, your bottom line) even better. Your story is just getting started.