4/20 Checklist for Dispensaries: 8 Tips to Ensure Success

420 is right around the corner, and it’s no secret that dispensaries across the country will be gearing up for increased foot traffic.

Retailers and brands alike are eager to capitalize on the opportunity this time presents each year, and with record-breaking sales expected in 2023, recreational dispensaries are strategizing more than ever.

Let this piece serve as a useful reminder of things dispensary operators can do to prepare for 4/20.

Quick List:

1. Stock up on inventory
2. Communicate events & specials
3. Feature specials on your menu
4. Respond to recent Google reviews & ensure accurate info is displaying
5. Prepare for higher amounts of foot traffic
6. Consider hiring additional staff
7. Consider week-long or month-long 4/20 promotions
8. Ensure compliance with local & state regulations

1. Stock up on inventory

Ensure you’ve got enough product in stock to meet the expected increase in demand (this goes for all month long!) Since you may have a different crowd than the regulars, it may be worth ensuring you have something available across all product categories – flower, concentrates, edibles, vapes, tinctures, accessories etc. You may also want to consider having a wider variety of products at different price ranges, and enough of an assortment to appease your shoppers.

2. Communicate events & specials

There’s always A LOT going on this month, don’t get lost in the mix. Promote your events and/or specials through SMS and/or email and make sure they’re easily found on your website & social channels.

3. Feature specials on your menu

If you have specials, deals, price cuts, etc., make sure you are prepared to feature them in your menu. Have a dutchie iFrame menu? Setup a custom special for your menu’s landing page. Or look into other ways you can promote items using your specific menu integration.

4. Respond to recent Google reviews & ensure accurate info is displaying

Make sure you’ve responded to your most recent Google reviews, especially negative ones. Customers will be paying closer attention this month in order to choose where they shop.

You should also make sure your Google listings have the most accurate and up to date info. Customers tend to suggest incorrect edits and your information can get changed automatically, so it’s important to check in from time to time. Having trouble getting something on your listing updated? We can help.

5. Prepare for higher amounts of foot traffic

Make sure you’re prepared for the influx of new foot traffic – have your budtenders setup to effectively request Google reviews from new customers, have QR codes at checkout to promote Google reviews & loyalty signups.

6. Consider hiring additional staff

With the increase in customers, dispensaries should consider hiring additional staff to handle the demand. Having enough budtenders, security personnel, and other staff members can help reduce wait times and ensure customers have a positive experience.

7. Consider week-long or month-long 4/20 promotions

Over the years, the 4/20 holiday has expanded to sometimes include the entire month of April. It makes sense when you consider conflicting work schedules and customers having difficulty getting to the dispensary nearest them on April 20th – why not extend your deals to bring in some extra foot traffic in the days or weeks surrounding the actual day?

8. Ensure compliance with local & state regulations

Like every other day throughout the year, 4/20 requires dispensaries to comply with all applicable laws and regulations at both the local and state level. Keep this in mind as your putting together promotional material or planning events.

Get The Most Out of 420 This Year

420 is always an exciting time of year for customers, operators, and the industry as a whole. Recreational dispensaries are sure to see an increase in foot traffic during this time, which provides an excellent opportunity to capitalize on increased demand.

By preparing ahead of time, dispensaries can ensure they are stocked up on popular products and have measures in place to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for their customers.

If you or someone you know needs any help with any aspect of their preparation, reach out to CannaPlanners for expert advice and support. Happy Holidaze 😎