Dispensaries are stores that specialize in selling cannabis and marijuana-related products, often using point of sale (POS) software to track inventory, offer discounts and comply with state regulations. Many dispensaries also offer delivery, drive-thru or pick-up services.
Dispensary staff are commonly known as budtenders, consultants or guides. Their job is to assist customers in choosing products tailored specifically for them and guide them through the experience. Furthermore, these professionals possess extensive product knowledge which allows them to help customers navigate legal restrictions and health benefits associated with each product as well as local regulations regarding cannabis usage.
Dispensaries offer a diverse selection, so it is wise to spend some time perusing online menus before arriving. This will enable you to compile a list of items you desire and save time in-store. If the one you wanted has sold out, your budtender may recommend alternatives or offer pre-rolled joints that are ready to consume immediately.
Registering at dispensaries before entering can help them keep track of your purchases and provide the budtender with information on which offers or rewards to give based on your shopping patterns. Your registered account can also be used on the shop’s website and mobile app to place orders and track inventory levels.
Dispensaries must employ effective security measures in order to prevent cannabis and related products from being stolen or lost, and to keep unauthorized people away from specific areas. Depending on its location, this may involve locks, keys, passwords and combination numbers that must be entered to gain entry; these controls usually must be employed alongside security personnel or employees for maximum efficiency.
Dispensaries must implement a system for reporting sales data back to the state, known as track-and-trace, that ensures compliance with state regulations. This typically uses proprietary software applications.
Funding for a dispensary can come from various sources. Private funds from individuals interested in the cannabis industry often serve as one source, though debt financing from banks willing to work with legal cannabis businesses may also provide funds.
No matter the method by which your dispensary is funded, time must be invested in developing standard operating procedures (SOPs). SOPs provide detailed explanations on how everything should be performed within your dispensary and can help create efficiencies, maintain compliance and mitigate risks within the business.