Ever wondered how Google decides which cannabis dispensaries or CBD businesses show up first when someone searches for your products? You’re not alone! Google recently shared insights into what drives local search rankings, and we’re here to break it down for cannabis dispensaries and B2B cannabis businesses looking to improve visibility.
Let’s dive into the three key factors that impact your dispensary’s ranking in local search results.
Google’s goal is simple: match the searcher’s query with the most relevant business. The more your dispensary profile aligns with search intent, the higher your chances of ranking.
That’s why ensuring your Google Business Profile (GBP) is fully optimized with detailed descriptions of your cannabis products, strains, delivery options, and in-store services is crucial.
For cannabis dispensaries and online cannabis businesses, this means including:
Complete product details (e.g., THC & CBD content, effects, benefits)
Services offered (e.g., same-day delivery, in-store pickup, medical consultations)
Industry-specific keywords (e.g., “best THC gummies near me,” “CBD tinctures for pain”)
Pro Tip: The more specific and complete your business profile is, the more Google will trust you as a top result for cannabis-related searches.
Local searches prioritize proximity, especially for people searching for a dispensary near them. Google favors businesses closest to the searcher’s location – but don’t worry if you’re not directly in a major city.
Dispensaries that optimize for local SEO can still rank well by emphasizing convenience and accessibility. Here’s how:
Mention nearby landmarks (e.g., “Located near [local attraction]”)
Highlight your delivery zones (if you offer cannabis delivery services)
Ensure your address is consistent across Google, directories, and your website
Pro Tip: If your dispensary serves multiple areas, list those specific locations on your website and Google Business Profile to expand your search radius.
Prominence is all about your dispensary’s online reputation. Google considers:
Customer reviews & ratings
Mentions on social media & cannabis directories
Backlinks from industry websites & blogs
For cannabis dispensaries, building trust and authority in the industry means actively managing customer reviews and digital presence.
Here’s how to boost your dispensary’s prominence:
Encourage happy customers to leave reviews on Google, Weedmaps, and Leafly
Engage on social media (consistent posting, responding to comments, etc.)
Get featured in local and cannabis-specific directories
Pro Tip: The more positive reviews and mentions you have, the more Google sees you as a trusted dispensary.
Now that you know Google’s top three ranking factors—relevance, distance, and prominence—it’s time to ensure your cannabis business is optimized for local search visibility.
Complete your Google Business Profile with detailed product & service descriptions
Ensure your location data is accurate across all platforms
Encourage reviews & social engagement to build online credibility
Want expert help ranking your dispensary higher in local search? At Creative Conspirator, we specialize in SEO strategies for cannabis dispensaries and cannabis businesses. Contact us today to start optimizing your local rankings!
We would love to work with you! Book a free consultation now.
