If you are an avid recreational marijuana user or you are interested in being a part of the cannabis industry, you might be thinking of owing your own marijuana dispensary business for a change, but there are things you have to keep your eyes on. In the cannabis industry, you should be aware of specific issues that can make or break your business. Listen up!
The Legal Requirements
When you remain compliant with local and state marijuana laws, you get to remain focus on your cannabis business practices. There are varying state laws and so you have to make sure that both you and your employees are adhering to them and believe it not, but this should be a priority. As a business owner, be sure to do the research.
If you are not sure, then speak to a attorney, preferable someone who actually specializes in marijuana laws. There are many business owners trying to navigate this confusion that exists in the legislature as it relates to marijuana. Even though, some of them are considered illegal to the federal government, they still try to stay abreast and up to date with their federal and state taxes. When you have any doubts, consult a tax specialist or lawyer.
The Advertising
One of the best business practices of the industry is following advertising guidelines. Good advertising helps the company to maintain a loyal customer base, solid reputation and profit generation. However, this can be quite tricky. Why? Well in some states like New Jersey advertising as a marijuana dispensary is forbidden while in other states like Illinois advertising marijuana dispensaries is forbidden by health clinics. So, in your business practices, be sure to learn as much as you can about what is and isn't allowed.
The Money
As part of your cannabis business practices, money will always be an issue. For any business, money is central to its success. You should make sure that you and your investors have sufficient startup capital so that you can maintain the operation of your business for as long as it is possible to survive, especially in the first year of business. Most first time cannabis business owners have the high expectation of money flowing once sales begin to come in. However, be ready for the fact that you may not see as much revenue in the first few months. If your overhead projection is $20,000 per month, you should double that projection.
The Education
If you want to stand out among your competition as a marijuana dispensary, you should make sure that all your staff members are fully trained and cannabis educated about everything related to the cannabis industry, products and business operation. Be sure the staff knows how they should recommend cannabis products and strains to meet patient's medical symptoms and illnesses. This might mean providing cannabis product samples; basic training and making sure employees are versed in the state laws and are compliant with these laws. Employees should not only be adequately informed, but friendly and personable to the cannabis consumer, providing amazing customer service.
The Business Model
Your cannabis business model should match your business practices. To do so, your business plan should be solid and meticulous. If you don't know how to create such a business plan, you should hire a professional. This will give you the blueprint to ensure that you are following the marijuana laws. In fact, many states do require cannabis business owners to have a business model and plan in order to be awarded a marijuana license. You should know where the cannabis product is being made. Security measures should be in place. Business losses and gain projections should be estimated. When you take these additional steps, it puts you in charge of your business and makes the difference in whether you succeed or fail.
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