How Dispensaries Can Get More Google Reviews

Let’s cut to the chase: Google reviews can make or break your dispensary. With 90% of people saying online reviews influence their purchasing decisions, a strong collection of positive reviews can drive more customers through your doors (and keep them coming back).

If you’re not focusing on your reviews, you’re leaving money on the table. Here’s how dispensaries can rack up more Google reviews, why it matters, and some tips to make it happen without breaking a sweat.

Why Google Reviews Are Crucial for Dispensaries

1. Build Trust Quickly

People want to know they’re buying from a reliable dispensary. According to BrightLocal, 93% of customers read online reviews to determine the quality of a local business. A bunch of glowing reviews makes your dispensary look legit and trustworthy.

2. Boost Your Local SEO

Google reviews play a big role in local search rankings. Dispensaries with more reviews (and higher ratings) are more likely to show up in the Google 3-Pack—those top three businesses that appear first in local searches.

💡 Stat: Businesses in the Google 3-Pack get 700% more clicks than those that don’t.

3. Attract More Customers

The math is simple: More reviews = more customers. A study by Podium shows that businesses with over 200 reviews see nearly 44% more revenue than those with fewer than 50 reviews.

How to Get More Google Reviews for Your Dispensary

1. Make It Easy for Customers to Leave a Review

People won’t leave a review if it’s complicated. Simplify the process:

• Create a direct link: Use Google’s Review Link Generator to make a shareable link.

• Add QR codes: Place them on receipts, in-store signage, or product packaging.

• Send follow-up messages: After a purchase, send a text or email with a polite request and the review link.

💡 Pro Tip: Mention how long it takes (e.g., “It only takes 1 minute!”) to make it feel like less of a hassle.

2. Train Your Team to Ask for Reviews

Your budtenders are the face of your dispensary. Train them to ask for reviews after they’ve helped customers. Keep it casual and friendly, like:

• “If you had a great experience, we’d love it if you could leave us a review!”
• “Your feedback helps us grow—would you mind leaving a quick review on Google?”

💡 Stat: 76% of people say they’ll leave a review if asked, but only if the request feels genuine.

3. Offer a Little Incentive

Let’s be real: People love free stuff. While you can’t pay for reviews (Google frowns on that), you can offer a small token of appreciation. For example:

• A discount on their next visit.
• A free pre-roll or branded sticker for verified reviews.
• Entry into a monthly giveaway (e.g., $50 store credit).

💡 Important: Make sure to follow Google’s guidelines and don’t offer incentives for positive reviews specifically—just reviews in general.

4. Highlight Reviews You Already Have

Show off the love you’re getting! Share your best reviews on:

• Social media: Post screenshots of glowing reviews on Instagram or Facebook.
• Your website: Add a review section or carousel.
• In-store displays: Print out top reviews and frame them.

💡 Stat: Seeing positive reviews makes 68% of customers more likely to leave one themselves.

5. Respond to Reviews—Good and Bad

When customers see you’re actively responding to reviews, it builds trust. Thank those who leave positive reviews and address negative feedback professionally. For example:

• Positive Review: “Thanks for your kind words! We’re so glad you had a great experience. Hope to see you again soon!”

• Negative Review: “We’re sorry to hear about your experience. Please reach out so we can make it right.”

💡 Stat: Businesses that respond to reviews see a 16% boost in customer loyalty.

6. Use Review Request Tools

Take the work out of asking for reviews by using automation tools like:

• BirdEye
• Podium
• Google’s free Business Profile Manager

These tools send automated review requests via email or SMS, saving you time and effort.

7. Focus on Customer Experience

At the end of the day, your service is what earns you great reviews. Focus on:

• Friendly, knowledgeable staff.
• Fast, efficient service.
• High-quality products with clear labeling and descriptions.

💡 Stat: 89% of customers are likely to leave a review after a great experience, so make sure you’re wowing them!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Reviews: Not responding (especially to bad reviews) sends the message that you don’t care.

• Paying for Reviews: Fake reviews might seem like a quick win, but they can lead to penalties and lost trust.

• Not Following Up: Many customers simply forget to leave a review, so a friendly nudge can make all the difference.

The Bottom Line

Google reviews are the secret sauce to growing your dispensary’s reputation, visibility, and revenue.

By making it easy for customers to leave reviews, asking politely, and focusing on customer experience, you’ll build a strong online presence that keeps your dispensary thriving.

💡 Take Action: Start small—ask your next 10 customers for a review, and see how quickly your ratings climb. Your future customers (and your bottom line) will thank you!