Staff
Editors note: This is a guest post.
The cannabis industry has come a long way, specifically after its legalization in the country. Buyers can shop supplies without being apprehensive about being on the wrong side of the law. As long as you are in a legal state and fall within the age bracket, you can buy easily. But the retail market is going through a major transition amid the pandemic. You can expect the new trends to stay around for the foreseeable future. The virus is still here, and shopping habits are different. Cannabis consumers, marketers, and retailers must know about these trends to have clear expectations. Let us highlight the ones making it big in 2021.
Product education is a part of retail
Despite the legal status of cannabis in the country, new users still have some doubts. They want to know facts about product strains, consumption methods, dosage, and safety precautions. Product education is now a part of retail experiences as consumers expect it. Sellers need to go the extra mile across all platforms to match the expectations. Seasoned budtenders in brick-and-mortar stores offer education to first-timers. Blogs and articles do the same for online buyers. Product education goes a long way in making consumers more confident. Newbies can dip their toes with a lot more ease when they have a fair idea of what works and what doesn’t.
Online retail is here to stay
Another trend that is making it big is online retail. It is a safer option for buyers who want to stay at home. Sellers can consider the feasibility of options such as doorstep delivery or curbside pickups. Contact is minimal with both methods, so the risk of transmission of the virus is under control. Online selling is also a norm for cannabis accessories as all the reputed brands are available on websites. For example, consumers can explore all the Focus V Products, Parts, and Accessories available on this platform. It is much easier to check the options, go through details, and even read reviews of products online. So buyers are comfortable with the idea, and sellers need to gear up with better e-commerce experiences.
Focus on contactless payments
While online buying brings the advantage of contactless buying, retailers are doing the same for physical stores. Most are enabling contactless selling with POS solutions in brick-and-mortar stores. Buyers can avoid queues and crowds with self-service kiosks and POS terminals. It can be a futuristic investment for retailers as the rules of social distancing are likely to stay around in the coming years. The measure indicates that the seller is concerned about customer well-being, which drives loyalty in the long run. Moreover, POS applications reduce dependence on the human workforce, and stores can operate with smaller teams.
The current cannabis market landscape is very different. Right now, the focus is on consolidating trust and credibility. Providing education to consumers is a good start. Online services and contactless payments enhance consumer well-being. Businesses that want to succeed today and in the future must stay ahead of these trends.
