Fun Facts About Your Local Dispo Dealer

Long gone are the days when you have to buy a dime bag from some unknown guy who went to school with your cousin.  The cannabis industry has matured and so have you.  Now that medical and adult use or recreational cannabis is legal in so many states across the country, you have options on how and when you buy legal marijuana. All you have to do is check out your local dispo.

History

 Many local dispensaries have a rich history and were established in the early days of cannabis legalization.  These are retailers who are invested in the cannabis community and have long-standing relationships with activists and advocates.  Many legacy dispensary owners participated in the marijuana legalization movement themselves.  Some of them have been around for more than two decades and have seen the evolution of the industry. Corporations were not at the forefront of legalizing and decriminalizing marijuana, local activists and enthusiasts were at the forefront of the marijuana movement.  It begs the question why support big box stores and large corporations rather than those who are deeply invested in the movement and participated in its legalization?  Shop small and shop local movement applies to cannabis as well as other small businesses.    

Quality Control

 Most local dispensaries are known for their strict quality control measures, ensuring that their customers receive only the highest quality products. City and state agencies and officials put rules and regulations in place for dispensaries and other cannabis businesses.  Each state where marijuana is legal has a cannabis agency to enforce regulations.  The marijuana industry may be one of the most highly regulated businesses in the country.  Your local dispensary works closely with licensed in-state cultivators to source the best strains of cannabis that are lab tested to ensure their products are free of pesticides, mold, and contaminants.  It is also important for local dispensaries to offer a variety of products including flower, pre-rolls, tinctures, patches, balms, gummies, edibles, and accessories.  

Community Involvement 

Many local dispensary owners and staff are actively involved in their communities and host events such as charity auctions, food drives, and educational seminars. They are passionate about giving back and helping to build strong, healthy communities.  There are more and more cannabis events happening in states where marijuana is legal and accessible.  One of the oldest and maybe most notable cannabis events is the annual Hash Bash in Ann Arbor, Michigan.  The very first Hash Bash was held on April 1, 1974.  Hash Bash is now held on the first Saturday of April at the University of Michigan Diag.  The event started after the March 9th, 1972 decision by the Michigan Supreme Court declaring the law used to convict cultural activist John Sinclair for possession of two marijuana joints was unconstitutional. This action left the State of Michigan without a law prohibiting the use of marijuana until after the weekend of April 1, 1972.  In 2022, Arborside, A North Coast Joint Venture co-sponsored the annual Hash Bash event.  

Arborside is a local Ann Arbor dispensary that opened in 2011. The annual Hash Bash event showcases vendors, speeches, music, and entertainment.  Over the decades, notable cannabis activists and celebrities have participated in Hash Bash including Ed Rosenthal, Virg Bernero, DJ Short, Adam Brook, Jorge Cervantes, Nicholas Zettel, Danny Danko, John Sinclair, Coleman Young II, Tommy Chong, Laith Al-Saadi, Keith Stroup and so many more.  

Employee Knowledge

The employees at local dispensaries are often referred to as budtenders.  Budtenders are knowledgeable and passionate about cannabis.  Many use cannabis themselves.  Budtenders are a great resource for recommendations.  They are trained to help customers choose the right product for their needs and can answer any questions about the products, effects, and side effects.  Many product vendors offer free education and product knowledge and information.  Some vendors offer samples to dispensary staff so they have tried the product and can recommend the products.  

Local Sourcing 

Many local dispensaries support local growers and suppliers, promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. Dispensaries can only purchase THC products from licensed state growers and processors.  They believe in sourcing their products locally to help the local economy and reduce their carbon footprint.  Long-time dispensaries or legacy shops often have long-standing relationships with cannabis cultivators.

Wide Selection

 Local dispensaries offer a wide selection of products, including flower, concentrates, balms, pre-rolls, gummies, edibles, and tinctures. They work with many local brands to provide their customers with the best and most innovative products on the market.  It is also important for local dispensaries to offer a wide variety of products at different price points.  Each customer has a different budget and it is important to respect that.  

Safe and Secure

Local dispensaries take the safety and security of their customers seriously.  City and state cannabis agencies require strict safety and security measures.  Some employ trained security personnel and use state-of-the-art technology to ensure that their customers can shop in a safe and secure environment.  Many customers feel uncomfortable if a dispensary has security personnel while they shop.  

Convenient Hours

Local dispensaries typically have extended hours of operation, making it easy for customers to stop by before or after work. They also offer online ordering and delivery services, making it convenient for customers to shop from the comfort of their own homes.  Most cities set the hours that dispensaries are allowed to operate.  Most shops are open seven days a week to accommodate people’s schedules.

Loyalty Programs 

Many local dispensaries offer a reward program or loyalty points and discounts to their customers, rewarding them for their continued support. They believe in building strong relationships with their customers and appreciate their loyalty.  Customers can redeem rewards or loyalty points for free or deeply discounted THC, CBD, accessories, and or merchandise.

Personal Touch

Local dispensaries are known for their personal touch, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. They take the time to get to know their customers, and many of their employees have developed long-lasting relationships with their customers over the years.

Going to a marijuana dispensary, provisioning center, pot shop or weed store should be a fun experience.  Lots to see and definitely lots to smell.  One unique feature of local dispensaries is that they offer deli-style cannabis rather than just prepackaged cannabis. 

 Deli-style cannabis is where cannabis is stored in C Vaults or containers specially designed to preserve the freshness of the flower, bud, or nugs.  A customer is allowed to see and smell the cannabis they are interested in buying.  

The cannabis is then weighed and packaged in front of the customer.  

Deli-style cannabis is a wonderful experience for a marijuana enthusiast.  Some prepackaged flower can get dried out and lose weight, freshness, and potency. Find a local dispensary that offers deli-style marijuana.  Not only will deli style offer you a fresh product you can see and smell, but it is also a fun experience.  

All in All

Local dispensaries are an essential part of many communities, offering high-quality products, knowledgeable staff, and a personal touch.  In fact, during the Covid 19 pandemic, cannabis dispensaries and their staff were deemed essential.  In addition, they infuse money into the local economy and their sales and excise tax are a newly found venue stream for many communities. They are dedicated to providing their customers with the best experience possible and work tirelessly to make a positive impact in their communities.