Choosing the Right Cannabis App Partner: What to Know Before You Sign
Choosing the Right Cannabis App Partner: What to Know Before You Sign
By Sativa Strategies Consulting – Cannabis Business Strategy & Tech Optimization
If you run a cannabis dispensary, chances are you’ve considered launching a branded app — or you're already using one and questioning if it’s really working for you. A well-integrated, branded cannabis dispensary app can drive loyalty, boost repeat purchases, and increase your average order value (AOV). But choosing the wrong app provider? That can cost you time, money, and customer trust.
At Sativa Strategies Consulting, I’ve worked with dispensaries across the U.S. to launch, optimize, and even switch cannabis app providers — and I’ve seen firsthand what works and what doesn’t. Whether you're using Alpine, Springbig, Dutchie, or considering a custom app solution, here's what you need to know before signing the dotted line.
1. Prioritize POS and Loyalty Integration
A great cannabis app should connect seamlessly with your existing POS system and loyalty program — otherwise, you’re setting yourself up for tech headaches.
📝 Sativa Strategies Tip: Always ask if the app integrates with your system (Treez, Dutchie, Flowhub, etc.) and if it can sync in real-time with loyalty platforms like Alpine IQ or Springbig.
2. Customization = Control
Your dispensary app should reflect your brand — not the app company’s.
Make sure you can control the design, visuals, and the types of deals your customers see.
📝 At Sativa Strategies Consulting, I help dispensaries build app-exclusive deals, push campaigns, and branded menus that actually convert.
3. You Need Real-Time Push & Promo Control
Can you create flash offers or send segmented push notifications quickly? If not, you’re missing a huge opportunity to drive traffic and boost sales.
4. Data Visibility is Non-Negotiable
If the admin dashboard doesn't show you what’s working (AOV, redemptions, open rates), you're flying blind. Clean data = smarter strategy.
I help clients evaluate cannabis app providers not just by their look, but by their backend performance and reporting features.
5. Don’t Forget Support & Scalability
Will they be there when something breaks? Can the platform grow with you as you expand? These are the things to ask — especially before signing a multi-year contract.
6. Know What You’re Paying For
Many app companies charge onboarding fees, revenue share, or limit push notification volume. Read the fine print — or let someone like Sativa Strategies Consulting review it with you.
Final Thoughts: Your Cannabis App Should Work for You — Not Against You
There are dozens of app providers for dispensaries out there — but not all of them are built to support long-term success. At Sativa Strategies Consulting, I work with cannabis retailers across the country to evaluate app providers, negotiate better terms, and build strategies that maximize app-driven revenue.
If you're launching an app — or ready to switch to one that actually drives results — I’ll help you do it the smart way.
Need help choosing the right cannabis dispensary app?
Let’s talk.