How to Set Up Google My Business for Your Cannabis Business

A strong online presence is essential for businesses, including cannabis companies. One of the best tools to help your cannabis business gain visibility is Google My Business (you’ll see this named: “GMB” in this article and throughout the internet). While the cannabis industry faces unique challenges with advertising and regulations, GMB provides a compliant way to improve your local search presence and attract customers to your marijuana dispensary or cannabis business.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up your Google My Business profile as a cannabis business.

Why Google My Business Is Important for Cannabis Businesses

Google My Business helps your cannabis business do the following:

• Increase Local Visibility: Show up in local searches when customers look for dispensaries, CBD shops, or other cannabis-related services.
• Build Trust: Display accurate information such as hours, location, and contact details.
• Engage Customers: Share updates, respond to reviews, and interact with your community.

Step 1: Understand Google’s Policies

Before creating your GMB profile, familiarize yourself with Google’s policies regarding cannabis businesses. While Google allows the listing of cannabis businesses (such as dispensaries), it prohibits advertising cannabis products directly. Ensure your profile adheres to these guidelines to avoid suspension.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Information

Prepare the following before creating your profile:

• Business Name: Use your official business name.
• Address: Provide a physical address where customers can visit. (P.O. boxes are not allowed.)
• Phone Number: Ensure it’s up-to-date and operational.
• Business Category: Select the most relevant category, such as “Cannabis Store” or “Medical Marijuana Dispensary.”
• Website: Make sure you link this to your website.

Step 3: Create Your Google My Business Account

1. Go to Google My Business: Visit https://www.google.com/business/.
2. Sign in: Use a Google account associated with your business.
3. Enter Your Business Name: Ensure it matches your branding.
4. Add a Location: Enter your storefront’s physical address.
5. Choose a Category: Select the category that best represents your cannabis business.
6. Provide Contact Information: Add your phone number and website.
7. Verify Your Business: Google will send a postcard to your address with a verification code. Use this code to verify your listing.

Step 4: Optimize Your Profile

Once your profile is live, optimize it to attract more customers:

• Add Photos: Upload high-quality images of your storefront, products, and interior.
• Create Posts: Share updates about events, new products, or special promotions (ensure they comply with Google’s guidelines).
• Respond to Reviews: Engage with your customers by thanking them for positive reviews and addressing concerns in negative reviews.
• Update Business Hours: Keep your hours accurate, especially during holidays or special events.

Step 5: Leverage Customer Insights

Google My Business provides valuable insights about how customers find and interact with your business. Use this data to:

• Identify popular search terms.
• Understand customer demographics.
• Improve your offerings based on customer behavior.

Best Practices for Cannabis Businesses on GMB

• Stay Compliant: Avoid making claims about medical benefits or directly promoting cannabis products on your GMB profile.
• Focus on Local SEO: Encourage customers to leave reviews and use local keywords in your description.
• Regular Updates: Keep your profile fresh with new photos and posts.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• Verification Delays: Cannabis businesses may experience delays during the verification process. Be patient and ensure your address is correct
• Flagged Listings: If your listing is flagged, review Google’s policies and make necessary adjustments. You can appeal or contact support if needed.

 

Setting up a Google My Business profile for your cannabis business is a powerful way to enhance your online presence and attract local customers. By adhering to Google’s policies and optimizing your profile, you can stand out in a competitive market while maintaining compliance. Take the time to create and maintain your GMB listing—it’s an investment that pays off in visibility and customer trust.

If you have any challenges setting up your Google My Business listing, please Contact TechHouse Agency – the premier Marijuana Dispensary and CBD Company SEO Agency.