Canada’s approach to marijuana use and regulation was significantly changed by the legalization of cannabis in the country, which was implemented in October 2018. This shift not only made it legal to own and consume cannabis, but it also opened the door to a flourishing legal market— including online sales.
Online cannabis sales have been on the rise in Canada since its legalization. As of 2023, 38.4% of adults aged 18-24 and 34.5% of adults aged 25-44 reported using cannabis within the past year.
The convenience and privacy of discreet packaging, the wide selection of online products, and the cost drove this trend. These factors reveal changing Canadian cannabis consumer preferences and legal cannabis market dynamics. As a cannabis user, it shows the convenience of buying from a legal and trustworthy “weed store near me.”
The Rise of Online Cannabis Sales and COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has boosted sales of cannabis through online platforms. Sales were $2.5 billion from March 2020 to February 2021, up from $1.25 billion in the prior 12 months.
- Contactless Transactions. Shoppers prefer online shopping for its convenience and safety amid social distancing.
- Regulation Flexibility. Due to public health concerns, many jurisdictions relaxed online cannabis sales restrictions.
- Increased Demand. Online orders rise as more people use cannabis to manage stress and anxiety in uncertain times.
- Market Rise. Pandemic restrictions on in-person shopping have boosted online sales exponentially.
Weed Online vs. Physical Stores
Cannabis shopping online is unmatched in convenience and accessibility. Customers can shop whenever and wherever they like, without leaving the house. It benefits people with disabilities because it eliminates the need to travel.
Online stores offer detailed product descriptions and customer reviews to help shoppers make decisions without the pressure of in-store shopping.
Comparing Online and In-Store Prices and Deals
Cheaper prices and better deals are standard at online cannabis stores. These factors include:
- Lower Overheads. Online stores can offer lower prices due to lower operational costs.
- Deals and Promotions. These platforms offer flash sales, discounts, and promotions.
- Price Comparisons. Customers can easily compare prices across online stores to get the best deal
Physical stores may offer loyalty programs and promotions, but online deals are more frequent.
Discreet Packaging and Delivery Options for Privacy
Many cannabis users value privacy. Online stores fulfill this need with discreet packaging and delivery.
- Plain Packaging. Customers receive orders in plain boxes without retailer or content labels.
- Safe Shipping. Online stores offer secure delivery, handling packages carefully and delivering them directly to the recipient.
- Tracking. Order tracking in real-time adds security and convenience.
These measures protect consumers’ privacy, sometimes overlooked in physical stores.
Differences in Customer Service and the Shopping Experience
| Store | Benefit | Details |
Online Stores |
Accessibility | Customers have access to a wide selection from anywhere. |
| Informative | Comprehensive product descriptions, user reviews, and educational resources aid consumer decision-making. | |
| Customer Support | Chat, email, and phone support are available online, but response times vary. | |
Physical Stores |
Personal Interaction | Knowledgeable staff can give customers personalized advice and immediate answers. |
| Product Handling | Before buying, shoppers can see and smell the products, which can help determine quality. | |
| Immediate Purchase | Purchase and take home products without waiting for delivery. |
The Buying Patterns of Experienced Users vs. Less Experienced Users
Experienced User Preferences: Variety, Potency, Quality
Experienced cannabis users have precise tastes and high standards. Many of their purchases reflect the following:
Variety
- According to research published in BMC Public Health, dried flower was the most popular form of cannabis, with 91% of users.
- The majority of participants admitted to buying and consuming multiple types of products, with edibles accounting for 61%, oils (40%), beverages (26%), vaping liquid (17%), and others (9%).
Potency
Experienced users prefer products with higher THC or customized cannabinoid profiles. They have a better understanding of tolerance and desired effects.
Quality
Even among those who took part in the same research, there was a lack of consensus on what constitutes high-quality cannabis. Although not exclusive, there were three primary ways in which participants rated the product’s quality:
- complying with regulations
- risk-free and efficient
- tailored to user experience
Shopping Habits of New Users: Reviews and Recommendations
Less experienced cannabis users are more cautious and rely on outside advice:
- Reviews. Online ratings and reviews influence their choices. They seek high-rated products with positive consumer reviews.
- Recommendations. Dispensary staff, friends, and family often advise new users. They seek trusted advice to navigate the many options.
- Simple Picks. Well-known brands, pre-rolled joints, lower-potency edibles, and mild strains may appeal to them.
Online Resources and Education Influence Purchase Decisions
Both experienced and novice users are influenced by online resources and educational content when buying:
- Experienced Users. Online strain reviews, cannabinoid profiles, and cultivation tips help users find the right product. In online cannabis communities and forums, you can share your cannabis journey and discover new products.
- Less Experienced Users. THC vs. CBD, edible dosage, and consumption methods are available in online guides and tutorials. They make confident purchases with clear product descriptions.
Different Spending and Purchase Frequency
Cannabis users with different levels of experience have different spending and purchase habits:
Experienced Users
- Higher Spending. They buy premium products, rare strains, and high-quality concentrates. They often pay more for higher quality and potency.
- Frequent Purchases. 74% of BMC study participants made one or more purchases per month. Many experienced users buy more often with the interest of discovering new products.
Less Experienced Users
- Budget-Conscious. Beginners spend less and choose safer, cheaper options until they find their preferences.
- Fewer purchases. They buy less often, usually for special occasions.
Differences Between Government-Run and Private Online Cannabis Stores
| Aspect | Physical Stores | Private Online Stores |
| Product Selection | Limited, regulated products | Broad range including niche items |
| Pricing | Fixed pricing structure | Dynamic pricing, frequent promotions |
| Customer Experience | Basic service, regulated interactions | Personalized support, user-friendly interfaces |
| Quality and Variety | Standardized quality, basic variety | High-quality, diverse selection |
| Trust Factors | Regulatory assurance, consistent quality | Brand reputation, customer feedback |
| Regulatory Compliance | Strict adherence to regulations | Navigate complex regulatory landscapes |
Other Relevant Factors in Online Cannabis Sales
Reward Programs for Online Frequent Buyers
Online cannabis retailers offer loyalty programs and rewards to encourage repeat business:
- Points Systems. Purchases earn reward points for discounts or freebies.
- Tiered Programs. Membership levels with increasing benefits based on spending or frequency.
- Exclusive Deals. Rewards, early product releases, and personalized recommendations for loyal customers.
Advanced Technology Improves User Experience
Online cannabis retailers leverage advanced technology to enhance the shopping experience:
- Virtual Budtenders. AI-powered chatbots or live chat support personalized product recommendations and customer inquiries.
- AR/VR Product Showcases. Virtual or augmented reality experiences let customers explore products, view details, and visualize effects.
- Interactive Websites. User-friendly interfaces, 360-degree product views, and multimedia content boost customer satisfaction.
Fast and Reliable Same-Day and Overnight Delivery
Online cannabis retailers prioritize fast, reliable delivery to satisfy customers. These stores provide same-day or next-day delivery in some areas for urgent orders. Service reliability and timely delivery boost customer satisfaction and loyalty.
High-Quality Products You Can Purchase Online
| Type | Product | THC:CBD Ratio | Price |
| Edibles | Pink Lemonade | 10.00mg : 1.00mg /pack | $6.00 |
| Strawberry Mango Soft Chews | 10.00mg : 1.00mg /pack | $6.00 | |
| Flower | White Widow | 23.00-29.00% | 0.00-1.00% | $9.99 |
| Pure Sun CBD | 0.00-1.00% | 14.00-20.00% | $28.80 | |
| Vape | Strawberry Slurricane 510 Thread Cartridge | 80-86% : 0.00 | 10.00% | $45.00 |
| Pre-Roll | Ghost Train Haze | 18.00-24.00% (Sativa) | $6.00 |
Experience Convenient Weed Delivery Service Today
Only order online from reliable, trusted weed dispensaries to access high-quality cannabis products produced by the highest standards.
Sea to Sky Cannabis ensures client safety and a safe cannabis journey. Sea to Sky offers same-day cannabis delivery so you can have a seamless purchasing cannabis experience. Check out our carefully curated selection of cannabis products, from cannabis topicals, cannabis drinks, live resin, and more.
Elevate your experience at the cannabis store near me—Sea to Sky Cannabis, where variety and quality come together.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a significant price difference between public and private online pot shops?
Yes, you can find better deals at online pot shops than at physical stores. Various factors contributed to these differences:
Physical Stores
- Fixed Pricing. Follow regulated pricing with little variation.
- Few Promotions. Offering occasional discounts or bundles within regulations.
Private Online Stores
- Dynamic Pricing. Adjusts prices based on demand and competition.
- Promotional Flexibility. Regular discounts, loyalty programs, and referral incentives to retain customers.
What factors should I take into account when selecting an online cannabis store?
In choosing a cannabis dispensary online, think about things like:
- License and Compliance. Always check their license to sell cannabis.
- Variety of Products. Verify if they have a diverse recreational and medical inventory that includes edibles, concentrates, flowers, and accessories.
- Customer Reviews. Check product quality and reliability with customer reviews.
- Privacy and Security. Read their online privacy and security policies carefully before making a purchase.
Sea to Sky Cannabis offers trustworthy, premium cannabis that satisfies all these requirements.
When I buy cannabis online, how and when will it be delivered?
Standard shipping, express shipping, and even same-day or next-day delivery options are common, though they do differ by province and retailer. Shipping times depend on location and shipping method selected at checkout.
