The Ultimate Guide to Modern Dispensary Design

Layout Optimization

A thoughtful layout is the backbone of effective dispensary design. You want to ensure a smooth, intuitive flow that enhances your customers’ shopping experience. Navigating your cannabis retail space should be easy and stress-free. When designing your cannabis dispensary’s layout, be mindful of:

• Entrance and check-in areas: These should be clearly marked and easy to navigate.
• Product display areas: Use open or glass cases for product display, making it easy for customers to browse.
• Waiting areas: Comfortable seating and engaging content can enhance the waiting experience for your customers.

Appropriate Lighting

It might seem like an after-thought, but lighting plays a key role in setting the right mood for your dispensary and highlighting your cannabis products. Use a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere and draw attention to key products.

Customer Flow

Make sure you design your store to facilitate a seamless customer flow from entrance to exit. You can do this with:

• Clear signage: To help customers navigate the store easily.
• Well-placed checkout areas: Strategically locate your checkout to avoid bottlenecks.

Aesthetic Appeal and Functional Design

Combining aesthetic appeal with functional design will help create a more pleasant shopping environment. Incorporate elements like natural materials, comfortable furniture, and clean lines to create an inviting space that reflects your brand identity.

1. Brand

Your brand identity should be evident in every aspect of your dispensary’s design. Your store name, color palette, logo, dispensary interior design, and website should all represent the type of retail experience you want your ideal customers to have. Dispensary branding is about providing an environment your customers want to be a part of.

2. State and Provincial Requirements

Understanding your state or provincial cannabis dispensary design, layout, and customer flow requirements is critical for remaining compliant. Many jurisdictions require a secure check-in area, and some have specific regulations around budtender interactions. Ensure you have a firm grasp of what you can and cannot do before you start designing.

3. Medical vs. Recreational

Medical dispensaries often require secure check-in areas and waiting rooms, while recreational stores have more flexibility in layout and design. Consider your current operations and future plans when designing your space.

4. Customer experience

Different layouts impact the customer experience in various ways. Decide whether you want a slower, educational focus or a quicker, more transactional environment, and design your dispensary accordingly. Consider offering convenient options like an express lane for customers in a hurry.

5. Inventory Management

How you manage inventory will affect your layout as well. You need to decide whether your budtenders will sell from a central inventory or if each terminal will have its own supply. Consider the implications of live product displays versus secure storage.

6. Staffing Needs

Your cannabis retail store’s layout will influence your staffing needs. Think about who will handle sales, transactions, and order fulfillment to make sure you have enough staff to manage peak times and comply with state, provincial, and local requirements.

7. Space and Location

The physical space and location of your dispensary will impact its design. Consider things like foot traffic, natural light, and privacy needs when planning your store’s layout. Make sure your design maximizes the potential of your space.

8. Customer Demographics

Understand who your customers are and what they want. Think about their preferences for shopping environments. Are you mostly serving locals? Tourists? A steady mix of both? Design your dispensary to best meet the needs of your core customers.

When it comes to the style of layout for your dispensary, you’ll need to consider your state, provincial, and local regulations as well as the type of experience you want to provide. Are you a medical dispensary? A recreational cannabis retailer? A hybrid store? The type of operation you’re running can help you determine the type of layout to choose.

Behind the Counter (bank model)

The bank model emphasizes the security and safety of products and has traditionally been the most common layout for medical marijuana dispensaries. As recreational cannabis has been legalized over time, many dispensary owners adopted the same model as it’s easy to manage with all the compliance regulations surrounding adult-use cannabis. But it doesn’t provide an immersive customer experience to consumers who want to see products before buying them.

• Inventory is stored in an area behind the counter that only staff has access to.
• There’s a waiting area for customers to get their IDs checked before entry.
• One budtender attends to one customer and builds a direct relationship.

While this model allows for a personalized customer experience, it can sometimes hinder the flow and turnaround time and result in inefficiencies.

Anywhere on the Floor (open retail model)

The open retail or mobile model is a customer-focused dispensary layout plan that many modern cannabis retailers have adopted. In this layout, products are displayed in open or glass cases for people to browse and pick up themselves if permitted. It can be challenging to manage inventory and security, and you’d need robust dispensary SOPs and inventory control. A mobile tablet such as one with Cova POS allows you to build a virtual cart anywhere on the floor and curates a positive customer experience.

• Customers don’t need to wait and can explore the dispensary floor.
• Cannabis products can be supplied from a central inventory area.
• Budtenders roam around with POS tablets and can attend to multiple customers.

The open retail model gives more flexibility to the customer and generally leads to a higher-than-average transaction amount, but it may require more staff to manage the flow.

Medical Inventory Control (pharmacy model)

The pharmacy model is not very common and is only used by medical dispensaries in states where regulations are stringent. In this layout, inventory is centrally located and securely accessible only by select employees. Generally, a patient or customer’s ID is verified in the check-in area, and then the budtender attends to them. However, the budtender only handles the transaction and provides a receipt from the dispensary POS, while staff managing inventory control hand out the product after final verification.

• Customers must wait in the check-in area before a budtender is available.
• Products are pre-packaged and verified by staff before handing them over.
• Budtender only handles POS transactions and not the product.

This model allows for tight cannabis inventory control and tracking, which eases auditing, cannabis compliance, and security concerns.

Self-Service (kiosk model)

This dispensary model consists of self-service kiosks where people can browse through products on a screen or tablet and build a cart on their own. This model does not require a lot of dispensary staff and may not necessarily provide a personalized customer experience. But if you have extensive information on the kiosk screens, this model works pretty well if your target market consists of cannabis connoisseurs or people who know what they want to buy. Make sure that you have a check-in area for ID verification.

• Customers can walk in anytime as long as there’s a kiosk available.
• Inventory can be easily managed as per any other model.
• Payment is processed automatically on the kiosk POS and staff hand over the order.

This is an extremely secure dispensary layout model from a compliance perspective as no products are displayed live. But you may have a floating budtender to help customers.

In modern cannabis retail, customers expect a certain level of sophistication. You can take your cannabis dispensary to the next level by incorporating modern features like digital display boards and self-serve kiosks.

You can also consider:

• Modular shelving, which allows for flexible displays that are easily updated.
• Interactive touchscreen menus to provide detailed product information and enhance the shopping experience.

Technology Integration

Utilizing modern technology can help streamline your dispensary’s operations and improve customer engagement. Consider using:

• Digital signage to keep customers informed about promotions and new products.
• POS tablets to allow your budtenders to assist customers anywhere on the floor.

1. Planning and Conceptualization

It all begins with a clear vision of your dispensary’s design. Start by conducting market research to identify and understand your target customer base and their preferences. Use this information to create a design that resonates with your target audience.

Here are the key steps in the planning and conceptualization phase:

• Define your brand: Ensure your design reflects your brand identity.
• Understand customer demographics: Tailor your design to meet the needs of your target market.
• Compliance: Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations.

2. Location Selection

Make sure you choose a location that’s easily accessible and complies with local zoning laws. Consider factors like foot traffic, visibility, and proximity to complementary businesses.

You’ll want to perform a thorough site analysis to assess the potential of different locations and choose one that offers the best combination of visibility, accessibility, and customer traffic.

3. Design Theme

Modern, rustic, industrial – whatever dispensary design theme you choose, make sure it aligns with your brand and appeals to your target customer. Creating a moodboard can help you visualize your dispensary’s design elements and keep your store’s interior elements aligned and cohesive with your brand identity.

4. Layout and Floor Plan

Design a dispensary floor plan that optimizes space and enhances customer flow. You’ll likely need a designated entrance area for ID verification and customer check-in. The checkout area is just as critical; make sure the flow from check-in to checkout is smooth and efficient.

You can use layout planning software to create multiple floor plan options and test different configurations to find the most effective design for your cannabis dispensary.

5. Materials and Furniture

The furniture and design materials you choose are critical pieces of your dispensary’s mood and atmosphere. Choose materials that are durable and enhance your store’s aesthetic – natural materials like wood and stone can create a warm, inviting energy, while comfortable furniture provides a pleasant waiting experience for customers. Pro tip: Consider materials that are both durable and easy to clean; this will help you keep your dispensary clean, attractive, and hygienic.

6. Security and Compliance

Of course, you’ll need to incorporate security features to protect your inventory and remain compliant with regulations. Install security cameras in key locations to monitor all areas of the store; keep inventory in secure areas accessible only to authorized staff. Additionally, conducting regular security audits will help you identify potential vulnerabilities and ensure your cannabis dispensary stays up-to-date on compliance requirements.

The following best practices will help ensure you get the most out of your cannabis retail space and ensure a top-notch customer experience:

• Conduct market research to identify and understand your ideal customer base.
• Perform a thorough site analysis to assess the best location for your dispensary.
• Create a mood board to align your design elements with your brand identity.
• Use layout planning software to create the most effective design for your dispensary.
• Choose durable, quality materials to design and furnish your dispensary.
• Merchandise strategically, and use data to optimize your merchandising strategy.
• Digitally extend your store’s capacity with touchscreen menus and kiosks.
• Get creative to give your dispensary a unique, personal style.
• Blend digital and physical experiences.

Strategic merchandising includes making sure your dispensary has open, walkable aisles that are free from clutter. It also means incorporating products into the cashwrap or along the store’s perimeter to add to the beauty and aesthetic of the environment. You can also use data to optimize your merchandising – for instance, grouping items that are frequently purchased together and creating product bundles and promotions based on what your customers like the most.

Touchscreen menu kiosks allow your customers to explore your entire inventory, including items not in stock at your location. Digital shelf space also helps reduce the amount of physical product display required and can streamline your sales floor, which is particularly helpful in small dispensaries.

Every element in your dispensary should be in line with your brand aesthetic. Use furniture, fixtures, and decorations to define the space and reflect your brand’s personality. You can also create a theme that aligns your brand and appeals to your target customers.

These alternative ideas and best practices can help you create a unique brand identity and set your dispensary apart:

• Incorporate elements of local culture and aesthetics to create a unique, inviting environment that resonates with your community.
• Use minimalist design principles to create a clean, uncluttered space that enhances products visibility and customer comfort.
• Incorporate educational elements into your design to build trust, authority, and engagement with customers.
• Use futuristic design elements to create a unique, memorable shopping experience that distinguishes your dispensary from competitors.
• Use custom graphics and branding elements to create a cohesive and recognizable brand identity.
• Use vintage design elements to create a nostalgic and inviting atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of customers.
• Use luxurious design elements to create an upscale shopping experience that attracts high-end customers.
• Blend industrial and modern design elements to create a sophisticated and stylish retail environment.

As the cannabis industry continues to grow, dispensary design is evolving along with it. In this section we’ll discuss some modern and emerging trends in cannabis retail space design.

Sustainable Design

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important to owners and customers alike. Using eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems can appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

Wellness Integration

Cannabis dispensaries are increasingly offering wellness programs, like yoga and massage therapy, to enhance the customer experience and differentiate themselves. Consider partnering with local wellness providers to offer unique services and create a holistic shopping experience that promotes health and wellbeing.

Blending Digital and Physical Experiences

Customers these days are accustomed to a blend of online and in-store shopping, so you want to meet them where they are. That means ensuring you have a robust online presence, a functional website, and in-store technologies like interactive menus and express checkout to enhance the customer experience.

It’s critical to follow proven dispensary design best practices to optimize your store’s layout and experience. But it’s just as important to know the big mistakes to avoid when designing your dispensary.

The top cannabis dispensary design mistakes we see are:

1. Unclear brand positioning

Your cannabis brand and your mission statement are the basis of what your business represents, and your dispensary interior design should reflect that. Before designing your store or asking a design firm to help you, develop a clear picture of how you want your brand to communicate with customers.

2. Designing without a concept

The most important aspect of your dispensary design concept is understanding your target demographic and their needs. Recreational cannabis stores tend to have a significantly different vibe as compared to medical dispensaries. If you cater to seniors, you may want to have a more educational atmosphere to help them understand the effects of various products.

3. Imitating other retail brands

Some cannabis brands have either inadvertently or deliberately copied coffee chains to appeal to specific demographics. But in today’s age, you can’t fool the well-informed consumer and must design your dispensary in a way that’s true to the essence of your brand.

4. No alignment with product and operations

When developing a space plan for your dispensary, the customer journey and the product journey must be aligned. Back-of-house operations are equally important as front-of-house, and product movement from delivery and storage to display and sale must be planned efficiently.

5. Architecture and construction mistakes

As a dispensary owner, you must do due diligence before partnering with an architect and contractor who’d be in charge of building or renovating the structure you want in place. Ensure that you only hire the services of certified, accredited, and reputable professionals, even if you may have to pay them a bit more – because even the smallest mistake can have dire financial repercussions.

6. Visual merchandising mistakes

Visual merchandising entails where your product is placed and how it is displayed in your dispensary. As a customer walks through your retail space, the visual appeal of a product is a factor when it comes to purchasing decisions. Categorize products so that the ones frequently purchased together are merchandised near each other.

7. Undefined budget and timelines

Developing a realistic timeline and budget for your dispensary design can save you a ton of time and money. You may have a great idea about incorporating lavish interiors and curating a luxurious experience for customers, but implementing it could take longer than expected and burn a big hole in your pocket.

If your budget doesn’t allow for a professional dispensary designer, here are some ideas to help you design and furnish your cannabis store on a budget:

1. Look for low-cost or repurposed furniture

Consider second-hand furniture and antique stores to find unique and affordable pieces. By repurposing used furnishings, you can save money while potentially discovering unique pieces you’d never find at a mass retailer. IKEA is also a great option for budget-friendly furniture.

2. Try modular shelving and displays

Modular shelving is a cost-effective solution that allows for flexible displays you can easily and quickly update.

3. Create unique experiences for customers

Mix it up and keep it interesting for your customers with unique shopping experiences like in-store events, educational workshops, and customer loyalty programs.

4. Incorporate technology

The right technology touches can significantly boost your brand appeal and enhance your customers’ experience. Touchscreen menus and digital signage can provide valuable product information and keep customers engaged.

When it comes to successful dispensary design examples, here are our top three that incorporate specific brand elements for a cohesive customer experience:

Silverpeak Apothecary – Aspen, CO

Silverpeak combines a Sonoma winery feel with a comfortable, upscale atmosphere. Natural accents, wood display cases, and bright lighting create a space where customers feel at ease.

SPARC – San Francisco, CA

SPARC’s minimalist design features cement floors, steel shelving, and glass lighting fixtures. This approach leaves plenty of open space for customers to explore products at their leisure.

The Green Easy – Los Angeles, CA

The Green Easy offers a clean, sleek design with glass and metal display cases. This layout ensures a pleasant and efficient customer experience.

Investing though, time, and resources into your dispensary design will go a long way in attracting and retaining your target customers in the competitive cannabis retail market. By focusing on layout optimization, integrating technology, and creating a welcoming atmosphere, you can enhance the customer experience and boost sales. Whether you hire a professional designer or take a DIY approach, the key is to create a space that reflects your brand and meets the needs of your customers.

Of course, the tech you choose to support your dispensary is critical to the customer experience. Cova’s cannabis retail tech solutions can help you facilitate any dispensary model you choose. To learn more about how our cannabis POS and tech solutions can help take your dispensary design to the next level, book a demo with us now at the button below.