Why Google Maps Matters for Cannabis Retailers
Cannabis retailers often seek effective methods to enhance their local search presence, aiming to attract nearby customers.
When someone searches for “dispensary near me”, you want your business to appear at the top of Google Maps results.
But how do you optimize your dispensary’s listing to dominate local search rankings?
In this guide, we’ll explore proven local SEO strategies including best practices for ranking higher on Google Maps.
1. Claim & Optimize Your Google Business Profile (GBP)
Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is the foundation of your local search presence. A well-optimized profile increases your chances of appearing in the top search results when customers look for cannabis dispensaries nearby.
Steps to Optimize Your GBP
- Claim & Verify Your Listing – Visit Google Business and claim your dispensary if you haven’t already. Verification via mail, phone, or email ensures your business is legitimate.
- Use Your Exact Business Name – Don’t add extra keywords. Use the exact name on your signage and legal business documents.
- Accurate NAP Information – Ensure your Name, Address, and Phone Number (NAP) is consistent across all online platforms.
- Choose the Right Categories – Select “Cannabis Store” as your primary category. You can also add relevant secondary categories like “Medical Cannabis Dispensary” or “Cannabis Delivery Service” (if applicable).
- Write a Compelling Business Description – Clearly describe your dispensary, including location, product variety, and what makes you unique.
Hemp Writer Tip:
“Start with optimizing your GMB and then hit the website SEO, which would be focused around increasing your GMB ranking and proximity.”
2. Encourage & Respond to Reviews
Google prioritizes dispensaries with high-quality, consistent reviews because they act as a trust signal for potential customers.
How to Get More Reviews
- Asking in person after checkout
- Sending follow-up texts or emails
- Offer a discount or loyalty points for leaving a review (if legally allowed)
- Respond to all reviews—both positive and negative
Always respond to reviews, both positive and negative, to show engagement and professionalism.
Hemp Writer Tip:
“Review, review, reviews. Get as many reviews as you can.”
3. Add High-Quality Photos & Videos
Google rewards listings that include engaging visual content. Adding optimized images can boost your ranking and attract more customers.
Best Image Practices
✅ Exterior shots – Help customers recognize your store
✅ Interior shots – Show off your product displays and ambiance
✅ Product images – Highlight your most popular strains, edibles, and accessories
✅ Team photos – Humanize your brand and build trust
✅ Short videos – Tour your dispensary or showcase new products
Hemp Writer Tip:
“Images. Add optimized images to your GMB (name the image files after your keywords a la houston-smoke-shop.jpg and give it a great description).”
4. Use Local Keywords in Your Profile & Posts
Optimizing your listing with local SEO keywords helps Google understand where you’re located.
Best Practices for using location-keywords
- “Denver cannabis dispensary”
- “Best weed shop in Los Angeles”
- “Chicago recreational dispensary near me”
You can naturally include these in your business description, Q&A section, and Google Business posts.
5. Post Regular Updates on Your Google Business Profile
Just like social media, you can post updates directly on your Google Business Profile.
This signals to Google that your dispensary is active and relevant.
Types of Posts to Share
- New product arrivals
- Special promotions
- Educational cannabis content
- Local events
Use high-quality images and include calls to action like “Stop by today!” or “Shop online now.”
Hemp Writer Tip:
“Focus on local SEO strategies to ensure your dispensary appears in local search results.”
6. Improve Your Website’s Local SEO
Your Google Maps ranking is directly tied to how well your website is optimized for local searches.
Key Website Optimization Strategies
- Embedding a Google Map with your dispensary’s location
- Creating location-based content (e.g., “Best Cannabis Dispensary in Seattle”)
- Add schema markup to improve search visibility
- Ensuring your site loads fast and is mobile-friendly
- Write blog posts about local cannabis laws, products, and news
Hemp Writer Tip:
“Optimize your site, i.e., Smoke Shop Houston in your title and within your content.
7. Use a Local SEO Tracking Tool
A Local SEO tool helps you track and measure your dispensary’s search rankings and competitor performance.
Best Local SEO Tools
- BrightLocal – Great for running ranking grids & tracking local search visibility
- Whitespark – Helps with citation building
- Google Search Console – Tracks website performance
Hemp Writer Tip:
“I would set up an account with a Local SEO tool like Bright Local and you can run a ranking grid for your top 5 keywords for each store.”
8. Get Listed on Cannabis Directories & Local Listings
Citations and backlinks improve your dispensary’s credibility and help Google verify your business location.
Google cross-references information from other trusted sources to verify your business details.
Where to Get Local Citations
- Weedmaps
- Leafly
- Cannabis-specific directories (like AllBud, Where’s Weed)
- Local business directories (Yelp, Bing Places, Apple Maps)
Keep your NAP information consistent across all platforms!
9. How to Get Local Backlinks
- Sponsor local newspapers & events – Earn a mention on their website
- Write guest posts on cannabis blogs
- Collaborate with local influencers for features
Hemp Writer Tip:
“Purchase sponsorships in local newspapers to get links back to your site.”
10. Enable Messaging & Q&A on Google
Google Business allows direct messaging with potential customers. Enable this feature to:
- Answer product or pricing inquiries quickly
- Provide directions or store hours
- Build trust with your audience
Also, monitor the Q&A section on your profile—anyone can ask (or answer) questions about your dispensary. Proactively add your own FAQs to control the narrative.
11. Monitor Insights & Adjust Your Strategy
Google provides performance insights on how customers find and interact with your dispensary listing.
Key Metrics to Track
- Search Queries – What keywords bring users to your listing?
- Where Customers Find You – Google Search vs. Google Maps
- Actions Taken – Clicks, calls, and direction requests
Use this data to fine-tune your SEO strategy and content efforts!
Final Thoughts
Ranking higher on Google Maps requires a strong local SEO strategy, a well-optimized Google Business Profile, and consistent engagement.
By following these proven tactics, your dispensary can attract more customers, increase foot traffic, and boost revenue.
Want expert help with your local SEO and Google Maps optimization?
Contact Hemp Writer today to get ahead of your competitors!