Top 10 Cannabis Dispensary Chains in 2023

When MediaJel began rewriting the book on digital marketing for dispensaries, the industry was just starting its explosive growth phase. Everywhere you looked, it seemed, a bumper crop of new dispensaries was angling for a piece of the action, looking to enter what was forecast to be the 21st century’s hottest industry.

In some regards, nothing’s changed. As rumors about the possibility of federal descheduling continue to bubble up, the industry is still enjoying strong growth and record-breaking profits. But we’re noticing a change in inflection: While there’s no shortage of entrepreneurs itching to enter the fray, the consolidation and aggregation many analysts predicted is already taking place. Increasingly, the dispensaries consumers flock to are chains, some of them run by sprawling multi-state operators (MSOs).

If you’re considering entering the retail cannabis world, you need to know the playing field. Who are the cannabis dispensary chains to watch? Allow us to introduce you to the Top 10.

Top 10 Cannabis Dispensary Chains: A Curated List

Massachusetts – Curaleaf

Curaleaf is a true behemoth in the cannabis industry, with a staggering 101 dispensaries across 23 states. As the largest cannabis company by revenue, it’s clear that Curaleaf has found a winning formula. However, it’s not just their deep pockets that have led to their success.

Curaleaf’s focus on customer experience is one of the key factors that sets them apart. Their dispensaries are designed to be welcoming and informative, with staff members who are knowledgeable about the products and strains they offer. They go the extra mile to connect customers with products that suit their unique needs and goals, whether it’s for pain relief, relaxation, or something else entirely.

One of the reasons why Curaleaf has been able to expand so rapidly is due to their high-quality branded products. Unlike some other dispensaries that offer a hodgepodge of different brands and strains, Curaleaf has carefully curated their own product line. Their products are packaged more like vitamin supplements than marijuana, which may appeal to those who are new to cannabis or who prefer a more professional, medicinal aesthetic.

With their extensive reach and commitment to customer satisfaction, it’s no wonder that Curaleaf is one of the most successful cannabis companies in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis user or a curious newcomer, you can count on Curaleaf to deliver top-notch products and service.

Florida – Truelieve

Truelieve, publicly-traded company (OTC:TCNNF)  has been a leading player in the cannabis industry since its founding in 2015. The company’s strategic expansion has allowed it to quickly become one of the largest dispensary chains in the United States. With over 80 dispensaries nationwide, Truelieve has made it easy for patients to access high-quality cannabis products in a variety of states.

Truelieve’s success can be attributed to its focus on medical cannabis patients, who make up the majority of its customer base. The company’s dispensaries are designed to be professional, airy, and welcoming, creating a comfortable environment for patients to try cannabis products. This approach has helped Truelieve to establish a strong brand identity that is trusted by its customers.

Trulieve is not only a dominant player in the U.S. cannabis industry, but it has also been recognized as one of the fastest-growing companies in the country, with a spot on the prestigious Inc. 5000 list in 2020. This is a testament to Trulieve’s success in providing high-quality cannabis products and exceptional customer service to its loyal customer base.

In addition to its vast network of dispensaries, Trulieve has also developed an impressive array of branded products that are available in multiple forms, including vaporizers, tinctures, capsules, and topicals. The company is committed to developing innovative products and delivery methods that cater to the specific needs and preferences of its customers.

Trulieve’s success has not gone unnoticed in the industry, as the company has received numerous accolades for its contributions to the cannabis sector. For example, in 2019, Trulieve was named the Best Medical Marijuana Dispensary in Florida by Orlando Weekly, and it has also won multiple awards for its extraction processes and product quality.

Overall, Trulieve has established itself as a leading player in the cannabis industry, thanks to its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. As the company continues to expand its operations across the country, it is poised to remain a major force in the cannabis space for years to come.

Pennsylvania  Beyond / Hello

Jushi Holdings’ retail arm, Beyond/Hello ,  (OTC:JUSHF), is quickly making a name for itself in the cannabis industry. With 21 locations spread across five states, this dispensary chain offers customers a unique experience centered around education and customer service. Rather than relying on flashy designs or marketing gimmicks, Beyond/Hello takes a more understated approach that focuses on providing customers with the information and products they need to make informed decisions about their cannabis use.

Colorado – The Green Solution

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But Beyond/Hello is just one player in a crowded field, and there are other dispensary chains that are making their mark as well. One of these is The Green Solution, Colorado’s largest dispensary chain. What sets The Green Solution apart is its commitment to customer service and its straightforward approach to branding and marketing. Rather than trying to be edgy or cutting-edge, The Green Solution embraces a more old-fashioned approach that emphasizes friendly, welcoming vibes and a professional demeanor.

The Green Solution is a family-owned dispensary chain that has become Colorado’s largest dispensary chain, with a reputation for a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The brand has adopted a professional and straightforward approach towards branding and marketing, which has helped to create a loyal customer base. The company focuses on providing excellent customer service, and their approach to cannabis education is careful and authoritative.

The Green Solution’s success in the industry has raised questions about the future of the cannabis market. With a strong emphasis on customer-centered service, The Green Solution is leading the way in creating a new, more approachable image for the industry. By providing a friendly and welcoming environment, The Green Solution has created a loyal customer base and is paving the way for other dispensaries to follow in their footsteps.

As more states continue to legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, dispensaries like The Green Solution will become increasingly important players in the market. With their focus on excellent customer service and a straightforward approach to branding and marketing, The Green Solution is poised to be at the forefront of this growing industry. Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis user or a first-time buyer, The Green Solution is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a friendly and welcoming dispensary experience.? Only time will tell, but thus far, the brand is, as they say, riding high.

Los Angeles, CA – Cookies 

Located in Los Angeles, California, Cookies is a well-known name in the cannabis industry. The company is known for its high-quality strains, particularly their famous Girl Scout Cookies and Cherry Pie strains, which have gained a cult-like following among cannabis enthusiasts.

The Cookies flagship store in Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in cannabis culture. With its sleek and modern design, the store offers a unique shopping experience that caters to both novice and experienced cannabis consumers. The store has a wide selection of strains, concentrates, and edibles, all of which are carefully curated by the Cookies team.

One of the things that sets Cookies apart from other dispensaries is their commitment to quality. All of their products are sourced from trusted and reputable growers and manufacturers, ensuring that customers get the best possible experience. The Cookies team is also known for their expertise and knowledge, and they are always on hand to help customers find the perfect product to suit their needs.

In addition to their flagship store in Los Angeles, Cookies has expanded their presence to other 8 other states, including,CA, NV, OR, WA, OK, CO, FL, MA. Their products are also available in licensed dispensaries throughout the country.

Overall, Cookies has made a significant impact on the cannabis industry, not just with their high-quality strains and products and celebrity hip hop star, Berner at the helm, but also with their commitment to education and advocacy. As the cannabis industry continues to grow and evolve, Cookies is sure to remain a major player, shaping the industry and providing customers with the best possible cannabis experience.

MedMen

Based in California but operating (or about to open) some 35+ dispensaries nationwide, this leading dispensary chain is sometimes described as “the Apple of dispensaries.” Whether or not that’s accurate, the company has the distinction of actually besting Apple in sales per square foot, at least in some of its more established locations. With bold, clever design and an aggressive growth strategy, this is one cannabis dispensary chain to keep an eye on.

Alberta – Decibel

Decibel, formerly known as Westleaf, is a publicly-traded Canadian cannabis conglomerate (TSX-V: WL) (OTCQB:WSLFF) that dominates the Canadian cannabis market. Its flagship retail chain, “Prairie Records,” is a unique dispensary concept that combines cannabis and music to create a one-of-a-kind experience. The stores are designed to resemble a record store, complete with vinyl records lining the walls and old-fashioned record players playing in the background. Prairie Records offers a curated selection of cannabis products, allowing customers to choose products based on specific desired outcomes.

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Unlike other leading operators that focus on quick growth, Decibel takes a more deliberate approach, emphasizing the relationship between cannabis and music and trading on retro, analog cool. This approach has earned Decibel a loyal following and established it as a leader in the Canadian cannabis market. As the industry continues to evolve, Decibel’s unique dispensary concept and commitment to quality products and customer experiences will likely continue to set it apart from its competitors. Decibel also prioritizes sustainability, using eco-friendly materials in their stores and packaging.

As a vertically integrated company, Decibel has complete control over the entire production process, from cultivation to distribution. This allows them to maintain a high level of quality control and consistency across all their products. In addition to their retail locations, Decibel also operates a state-of-the-art production facility in Alberta, which utilizes advanced technology to ensure optimal growing conditions and maximize yields.

With their focus on creating a unique and personalized experience for customers, combined with their commitment to sustainability and quality, Decibel has quickly risen to the top as a major player in the Canadian cannabis market, and their innovative approach to branding and design has helped them stand out in a crowded industry and attract a loyal customer base.

Connecticut – The Botanist

Owned by Acreage Holdings, (CSE: ACRG.U) (OTCQX: ACRGF) a leading vertically integrated, multi-state owner of cannabis licenses and assets in the United States, The Botanist stands out for its upscale and socially conscious approach. This dispensary chain caters to urban consumers who value luxury and an exceptional retail experiences. The Botanist is a brand that prides itself on providing the highest quality cannabis products to its consumers. The company’s approach to cannabis retail is focused on offering a luxury experience that caters to the discerning tastes of its customers. Each retail location is designed to create a luxurious and inviting atmosphere, with each store featuring custom woodwork and botanical elements reminiscent of luxury cosmetic stores. But despite its focus on exclusivity, Acreage is committed to making cannabis accessible to all. As the largest owner of cannabis licenses and assets in the US, Acreage is dedicated to providing high-quality products and education to cannabis consumers nationwide.

The brand’s commitment to socially conscious business practices has also helped it stand out in the crowded cannabis market. The Botanist is dedicated to sustainability and environmental responsibility, with a focus on reducing its carbon footprint and minimizing waste.

In addition to its commitment to quality and sustainability, The Botanist’s parent company, Acreage Holdings, is a leading player in the cannabis industry. With a strong presence in multiple states, Acreage Holdings is well-positioned to continue its growth and expansion in the coming years. The company’s vertical integration model allows it to control every aspect of the cannabis production process, from cultivation to retail, ensuring that its products meet the highest standards of quality and consistency.

Overall, The Botanist is a brand that combines luxury, quality, and sustainability, offering a unique cannabis retail experience that is sure to impress even the most VIP customers.

Massachusetts – RISE

RISE is a rapidly growing retail chain operated by Green Thumb Industries (GTI) (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF). With 54 dispensaries across the United States, RISE is quickly becoming a household name in the cannabis retail space. The brand’s focus on a utilitarian, yet welcoming design aims to set the standard for the purchase of cannabis at the retail level. RISE prides itself on its wide selection of products, including strains, edibles, and concentrates, with knowledgeable staff on hand to help customers find the perfect product to meet their needs.

In addition to its impressive number of dispensaries and utilitarian design, RISE is also known for its dedication to high-quality products and customer service. The brand offers a wide selection of cannabis products, including strains, edibles, and concentrates, sourced from trusted cultivators and manufacturers. RISE is committed to providing customers with the best possible experience and prides itself on its knowledgeable staff, who are always on hand to answer questions and provide recommendations.

But RISE’s commitment to excellence goes beyond just its products and customer service. The brand is also dedicated to making a positive impact in the communities it serves. Through initiatives such as its “Cannabis with a Cause” program, RISE partners with local organizations to give back and support important causes.

With its impressive growth and dedication to quality, service, and community, RISE is positioned to be a major player in the cannabis industry for years to come. As the industry continues to evolve and expand, RISE’s commitment to innovation and excellence will undoubtedly keep it at the forefront of the market.

Minnesota – Green Goods

Green Goods is quickly making a name for itself in the cannabis dispensary chain world with its 14 locations spread across 4 states. This fast-growing chain is an offshoot of Vireo Health (VREOF), a physician-led company with a strong background in medical research and development, dedicated to providing high-quality cannabis-based care to the masses. With a mission to make cannabis-based care more accessible and approachable, Vireo Health created Green Goods with a warm, casual, and friendly vibe that’s winning fans from coast to coast.

Green Goods has become known for its carefully curated selection of cannabis products, which includes a wide range of strains, edibles, and concentrates. The brand is committed to educating its customers on the benefits of cannabis, with knowledgeable staff on hand to help guide customers through their options and find the right products to meet their needs. The dispensaries themselves have a clean, modern look that’s inviting and easy to navigate, making the shopping experience both enjoyable and informative.

As Green Goods continues to expand, it’s clear that the brand is committed to providing high-quality cannabis products and exceptional customer service. With Vireo Health’s medical expertise and Green Goods’ customer-focused approach, this cannabis dispensary chain is poised to become a leader in the industry for years to come.

Colorado – Native Roots

Native Roots is one of the most prominent cannabis dispensary chains in Colorado, operating around 20 dispensaries throughout the state. What sets Native Roots apart from other cannabis retailers is their dedication to providing a visually appealing and welcoming environment for their customers. Native Roots dispensaries feature chic wallpaper with botanical designs, industrial-style ironwork, and polished cement floors, making for a stylish and modern atmosphere.

Not only is the design visually appealing, but it also aligns with Native Roots’ focus on social responsibility. The company has implemented sustainable practices, including recycling and reducing waste, to minimize their environmental impact. Native Roots is committed to being an ethical and responsible member of the cannabis community.

Native Roots offers a diverse selection of cannabis products, including strains, edibles, concentrates, and topicals. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist customers in finding the perfect product to suit their needs. With its focus on design and sustainability, Native Roots has become a model for the cannabis industry, proving that responsible business practices can go hand in hand with success.

But what does the future hold for the cannabis industry and its many players? It’s hard to say for sure, but one thing is certain: as more states legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, the competition will only get more intense. Whether it’s through customer service, branding, or some other factor, the dispensaries that are able to differentiate themselves from the pack will be the ones that come out on top. As the industry continues to evolve and mature, it will be fascinating to see which companies are able to rise to the top and claim their place in the spotlight