In the cannabis industry, it’s no secret that the black market is still a formidable player. While we wait for regulatory changes to catch up, black market operators aren’t slowing down. In fact, they’re stepping up their game.
But here’s the good news: you don’t have to sit back and watch. With the right digital tools and strategies, you can fight back and win.
At High Flyer Media, we’ve always been passionate about the power of a strong digital presence. We’ve spent years helping cannabis brands build that presence, particularly through SEO. Now, with Breadstack’s Dispensary eCommerce, we’re thrilled to support progressive work on the retail side, ensuring legal retailers have the same digital edge the brands we work with enjoy. The tools are here, and it’s time to use them.
The black market’s playbook: why they’re still winning
Black market operators, whether they’re brick-and-mortar stores or online Mail-Order Marijuana (MOM) shops, are more sophisticated than many give them credit for. These folks have SEO dialled in, which means they’re showing up on Google search results and drawing in customers—both long-time cannabis consumers and the “canna-curious.” This creates confusion for newcomers and shoppers who may not even realize they’re buying from unregulated sources.
That’s why SEO matters. If you’re not showing up where customers are searching, you’re losing business to the black market. It’s as simple as that. But here’s the exciting part: with Breadstack’s tools and expertise, you can beat them at their own game.
Take back the online space with SEO
As digital marketing pros, we know how much SEO can change the game. Breadstack empowers cannabis retailers to optimize their online presence, ensuring your store—not some shady unlicensed operators—shows up first in the search results. It’s about being visible, credible, and, most importantly, trustworthy.
Breadstack helps you create SEO-driven landing pages focused on delivery and products. When someone in your area is searching for “cheap ounces” or “weed deals,” your store will be front and center. That’s how you get in front of customers, and Breadstack helps you do it in a way that’s efficient and effective.
Retail tools built for the cannabis market
Now, let’s talk solutions. Breadstack isn’t just about SEO (though that’s a major part of it). They offer powerful tools that integrate seamlessly with your current setup, helping you serve your customers better and drive more sales.
1. POS integration: make shopping easy
At High Flyer, we’ve seen how important it is for cannabis retailers to offer a seamless shopping experience. Breadstack’s integration with your POS system makes this happen. Their carousels make your landing pages more dynamic and shoppable, which means more clicks turning into sales. And honestly, that’s what it’s all about—making it easy for customers to buy from you.
2. INTERAC integration: the secret sauce
Here’s where Breadstack really shines. They’re the only ones offering INTERAC integration, which is a game-changer. Why? Because not everyone wants to, or can, use a credit card to buy cannabis. Whether it’s privacy concerns or simply not having a card, many customers prefer INTERAC. And Breadstack delivers it.
By offering INTERAC as a payment method, you’re not only giving customers what they want, but you’re also saving yourself money. Fewer credit card transactions mean lower fees and less fraud risk. For every order processed through INTERAC, you’re saving/making an extra 2.9%. Plus, over 20% of all in-house delivery orders are paid for by INTERAC. When you consider that sales have gone up 22% since Breadstack launched, it’s clear this is a tool you can’t afford to ignore.
Win over legacy shoppers
Legacy shoppers are your bread and butter. These folks were in the cannabis game long before legalization, and they have certain expectations when it comes to buying. If you’re forcing them to use a credit card they don’t want to, you’re losing out. Breadstack’s INTERAC integration caters directly to their needs, ensuring they get the experience they want with the payment methods they trust.
Reduce fraud, lower fees, keep more of what you earn
Credit card fraud is a headache no retailer wants to deal with. And those processing fees? They add up fast. Breadstack’s INTERAC integration helps solve both problems. With fewer credit card transactions, you cut down on fraud risk, and you pay fewer fees. More money stays in your pocket—and who doesn’t want that?
Don’t wait for regulators—take action now
Waiting for regulations to level the playing field? That could be a long wait. The black market certainly isn’t waiting, and neither should you. With Breadstack’s powerful SEO tools, POS integration, and INTERAC payments, you’ve got everything you need to fight back and win. The tools are here. The time to act is now.
At High Flyer Media, we’ve always been big on giving cannabis brands the digital edge they need to succeed. Partnering with Breadstack just makes sense. Together, we’re helping retailers take control of their online presence, serve their customers better, and beat the black market at its own game.
Want to know more? Let’s talk. We’re here to help you grow your online business and make the most of the tools Breadstack has to offer. Schedule a demo today!
by David Brown | StratCann Media
This article originally appeared on the StratCann website, Sept 18, 2024.