Local SEO optimizes your Dispensaries website and builds quality backlinks, resulting in more organic (free) traffic from Google and other search engines. Many dispensary owners aren’t aware of this relatively simple way to get more visitors and customers into your store… both online and offline. This method of gaining more visitors from Google Maps, Google Local, and Google Places is called Local SEO, a subset of cannabis marketing.
Why Local SEO is Important for Dispensaries
In the rapidly growing cannabis industry, where dispensaries are cropping up like weeds, establishing a robust online presence is crucial. With most consumers turning to the internet to find local businesses, optimizing for local search engine optimization (SEO) has become necessary. For dispensaries, harnessing the power of Local SEO increases visibility and attracts potential customers actively seeking cannabis products and information in their vicinity.
How Local SEO Works
Local SEO is a tailored approach to optimizing online content for location-based searches. It involves strategies that enhance a dispensary’s visibility in local search results, making it easier for potential customers to find them. Here are some key components of Local SEO for dispensaries:
Google My Business
Google My Business (GMB) is a game-changer for local businesses, including dispensaries. By claiming and optimizing your GMB listing, you ensure your dispensary appears in local search results, Google Maps, and even Google’s local 3-pack. Complete your profile with accurate information and high-quality images, and regularly update your business hours and special events to keep customers informed.
Add Your Dispensary to Marijuana Directories
Now that you have added your dispensary to Google My Business, Obtaining more citations in pertinent directories is now necessary. This will improve your overall rankings and place you higher in search results for local dispensary queries.
To add your store to, we have gathered a few excellent directories of cannabis dispensaries. Don’t forget to turn in the same information you submitted to Google to be consistent across the web.
Leafly
One of the biggest directories and websites dedicated to marijuana is Leafly. Leafly.com allows you to add your dispensary, which can improve your search engine ranks, increase referral traffic, and increase the visibility of your brand among your target market.
To add your pertinent NAP+W information, just visit Leafly’s Dispensary Addition page and make sure it matches the information you gave to Google. They will get in touch with you regarding being added to their dispensary directory as soon as they have verified your dispensary.
Weedmaps
Weedmaps is another powerhouse in the cannabis industry, connecting users with nearby dispensaries, delivery services, and deals. Ensure your dispensary is listed on Weedmaps to tap into a vast network of potential customers.
GetNugg
GetNugg is a convenient platform that allows users to browse dispensaries and order cannabis products for delivery. Being listed on GetNugg can significantly increase your dispensary’s reach, especially among users who prefer the ease of online ordering.
MerryJane
MerryJane is not just a source for cannabis news; it also hosts a directory of dispensaries. Claim your dispensary on MerryJane to leverage its user base and strengthen your online presence.
Dispensaries Near Me
Generic search queries like “dispensaries near me” are prevalent among cannabis consumers. Ensure your dispensary is optimized for these local searches to capture the attention of potential customers in your area.
Local NAP Citations
Consistent Name, Address, and Phone Number (NAP) information across online platforms is crucial for Local SEO. Ensure your dispensary’s information is accurate and up-to-date on directories, social media, and your website.
On-Page SEO for Dispensaries
While off-page strategies play a significant role in Local SEO, on-page optimizations are equally vital for search engine visibility. Here’s how you can enhance your dispensary’s on-page SEO:
Structured & Schema Data
Implementing structured data and schema markup on your website provides search engines with valuable information about your dispensary. This can include business hours, location, and product offerings, making it easier for search engines to understand and display relevant information in search results.
Google Webmaster Tools
Utilize Google Webmaster Tools to gain insights into how Google views your dispensary website. Monitor performance, identify issues, and ensure your site is in good standing with search engines.
Verify Your Dispensary
Verifying your dispensary on various online platforms, including Google My Business, adds a layer of authenticity and trust. It also enhances the likelihood of your business appearing in local search results.
Add Google Verification Code
The Google verification code is a simple yet effective way to establish the legitimacy of your dispensary. Follow Google’s guidelines to obtain and implement the verification code on your website.
Submit Your Sitemap
Ensure that search engines can crawl and index your dispensary’s pages by submitting a sitemap. This helps search engines understand the structure of your site and index it more efficiently.
Heading Tags
Optimize your dispensary website’s heading tags (H1, H2, H3, etc.) by incorporating relevant keywords. This improves readability and signals to search engines the key topics on each page.
Meta Tags
Craft compelling meta tags that accurately represent your dispensary’s content, including title and description tags. Use relevant keywords to increase the chances of your pages appearing in local search results.
Title Tag
The title tag is a critical on-page SEO element. Create unique and descriptive titles for each page, incorporating location-specific keywords to enhance local relevance.
Description Tag
Craft engaging meta descriptions that provide a concise summary of each page. Use this space to showcase your dispensary’s unique selling points and encourage clicks from search results.
Alt Tags
Optimize image alt tags by describing images using relevant keywords. This not only improves accessibility but also contributes to the overall SEO of your dispensary website.
Have a Responsive Dispensary Website
A responsive website design is essential for providing a seamless user experience across devices. Google prioritizes mobile-friendly websites, so ensure your dispensary’s site is accessible and functional on smartphones and tablets.
Publish Good Marijuana Content
Quality content is the backbone of SEO. Create informative blog posts, product descriptions, and other content that caters to the interests and needs of your target audience. This attracts potential customers and positions your dispensary as an authoritative source in the cannabis community.
Wrapping Up
In the highly competitive cannabis market, standing out locally is key to success. By implementing a robust Local SEO strategy, dispensaries can ensure they are visible to potential customers actively searching for cannabis products and information in their area. From optimizing Google My Business listings to fine-tuning on-page elements, each step contributes to a comprehensive approach that enhances local search visibility.
