Finding a high-quality dispo, also known as a dispensary, in your neighborhood can be a daunting task, especially with the influx of dispensaries popping up all over every state that legalizes adult use or recreational and medical cannabis. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to determine which dispensaries are reputable and which ones should be avoided. In this blog post, we will explore the key factors to consider when searching for a high-quality dispensary in your neighborhood.
Selection
A good dispensary should have a wide variety of products to choose from, including different strains of cannabis, edibles, THC gummies, tinctures, balms, patches, concentrates, CBD, CBG, CBN, and more. This indicates that they are well-stocked and able to meet the needs of a diverse group of customers and medical patients. A dispensary with a limited selection may not be able to provide the specific products you are looking for or may not have the resources to provide the high-quality products you deserve.
Quality of Products
The products sold at a dispensary should be of high quality, free of contaminants, and with the appropriate labeling and packaging. Each and every product THC offered at a licensed dispensary or provisioning center should be produced a state-licensed cannabis grower or cannabis processor. Look for dispensaries that have their products lab-tested and have the results available for customers to see. Ask the dispensary staff or budtender to ensure the products you are buying meet strict safety and compliance standards set forth your state. This is important because it ensures that the products are safe to consume, apply or inhale and that they contain the correct amount of THC and CBD, and other cannabinoids, like CBG and CBN. Additionally, it’s important to check the expiration date of the products, as expired products may not be as effective or could cause health hazards.
Staff Knowledge
The staff or budtenders at a dispensary should be knowledgeable about the products they are selling and be able to answer any questions you may have. They should also be able to make recommendations based on your needs and preferences. A knowledgeable staff member can provide valuable information about the different strains of cannabis, their effects, and how to consume them safely. This can be especially helpful for new customers who may not be familiar with the various products available. A knowledgeable budtender should also be able to make product recommendations as well as answer questions.
Customer Service
The staff at a dispensary should be friendly and helpful, making you feel comfortable and welcome. They should also be willing to work with you to find the right products for your needs. A good dispensary will have a staff that is dedicated to providing excellent customer service, which can make all the difference in your shopping experience.
Pricing
A good dispensary should have fair and competitive pricing, without overcharging for their products. It should also provide quality products at different price points considering a variety of customer budgets. It’s also important to note that cheaper doesn’t always mean better. Some dispensaries may offer lower prices, but their products may not be of the same quality as those offered at a higher price point. It’s important to find a balance between price and quality, so you can get the most for your money. A good dispensary offers a first-time customer discount. It should offer a rewards program or loyalty points customers can redeem for free or discounted THC, CBD, accessories, and or merchandise.
Safety and Cleanliness
The dispensary should be clean and well-maintained, with a focus on safety and security. This is important for both the staff and customers. A dirty or poorly maintained dispensary can be a red flag, indicating that the dispensary may not be taking the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of its customers. It is important to feel not only welcome the dispensary and its staff but it is important you feel good shopping at the dispensary.
Compliance with Laws and Regulations
A good dispensary should be operating in compliance with all state and local laws and regulations. This includes being licensed and registered with the appropriate authorities. Dispensaries that are not operating legally may not be held to the same standards as those that are, which can put your health and safety at risk. Each local city or town has its own ordinance or set of rules a cannabis business must follow in order to maintain a certificate of occupancy or permission to conduct business. Furthermore, each state that has legalized recreational cannabis or medical marijuana has strict requirements and licensing standards. In fact, cannabis production, processing, transportation, and retail operations may be the most regulated industry in the United States.
Doing Your Research
Before visiting a dispensary, it’s important to do your research. This can be done reading online reviews and testimonials of customers that have visited the dispensary, which can give you a better idea of what to expect when you visit. Additionally, checking the dispensary’s website and social media including Facebook and Instagram accounts can give you a sense of the types of products they offer and the level of customer service they provide. Also ask friends, family members or neighbors if they go to a dispensary they would recommend. A good dispensary offers rewards for customers who refer a new customer! Those rewards or loyalty points can be used for free or discounted THC or CBD products, accessories, and or merchandise.
When it comes to selecting products, it’s also important to keep in mind that different strains of cannabis can have different effects. While the cannabis plant itself is female, the plant can be an Indica, Sativa or hybrid plant. Indica, Sativa, or hybrid refers to the strain type. An Indica strain can offer more of a relaxing or chill vibe. A Sativa strain offers more of an uplifting vibe. A hybrid cannabis strain can be a true hybrid, an Indica-leaning hybrid, or a Sativa-leaning hybrid. A good dispensary that offers quality products and who employs knowledgeable managers, supervisors, staff, or budtenders can help guide your product choices based on the kind of effect you are looking for from cannabis use. There are also cannabis strains that help with pain relief, inflammation relief, appetite, sleep aid, depression, anxiety, stress reduction, headaches, migraines, and PTSD. A budtender should know or have access to information about what a specific cannabis strain is best used for. The cannabis plant is a complex and extraordinary plant. There is so much to learn about cannabis and how it can help with physical and mental health issues. Many adult use or recreational cannabis users also use cannabis for some medical issues but primarily for relaxation and fun. A budtender can also recommend a cannabis flower strain for exercise, relaxation, stress reduction, and more.
Shop Local. Shop Small
When considering which dispensary to spend your hard-earned dollars, it is important to consider your local neighborhood or community. Consider a non-corporate dispensary. A locally owned and locally operated dispensary keeps money flowing through the local economy and employs your neighbors. Spending your cannabis dollars at a small or smaller shop keeps the local economy vibrant. Local dispensaries are also more likely to support local events and local charities.
