Why Loyalty Opt-In Rates Matter for Cannabis Retailers
The cannabis industry is competitive and your loyalty program is one of the few ways to build repeat business in a world where traditional marketing is restricted.
But here’s the catch: it only works if people actually opt in.
That’s where most dispensaries fall short. Whether you're using SMS, punch cards, or apps, your opt-in funnel needs to be fast, easy, and compliant.
This blog explores how to increase loyalty opt-in cannabis rates using smart, frictionless strategies that work in 2025.
What’s a Typical Loyalty Opt-In Rate in Cannabis?
Industry averages vary:
Standard SMS opt-in rates: 10–20%
POS signups (manual): 15–30%
Wallet-based opt-ins: 40–70% or higher (with automation)
The method you use matters more than you think. Manual signups or clunky apps often lead to drop-offs. The goal should be to capture opt-in at the moment of transaction without adding friction.
How to Improve Loyalty Opt-In Cannabis Rates
1. Avoid App Downloads
Requiring a customer to download yet another app is one of the biggest conversion killers. Instead, use native tools like mobile wallets that customers already use.
No logins. No passwords. Just one tap = enrolled.
2. Ditch the SMS Opt-In Barrier
SMS compliance is messy and customers know it. Long codes, STOP messages, and clunky CTAs turn people away.
Push notifications via Wallet cards don’t require SMS registration or costly carrier fees, making opt-in simpler for customers and safer for your brand.
3. Train Your Budtenders
Your staff can make or break your loyalty program. Ensure they:
Explain the benefits quickly
Know how to show customers how to add wallet passes
Mention loyalty consistently at checkout
A 15-second pitch can double opt-in rates.
4. Offer Instant Rewards
Nothing drives opt-in like immediate value. Offer a reward for joining:
Free pre-roll or edible
Bonus loyalty points
10% off next visit
Just make sure it's compliant in your state.
5. Use In-Store Signage and QR Codes
Place QR codes at checkout counters or on packaging that let customers instantly claim their loyalty card - no need to ask.
Pro tip: Add QR codes to your receipts and email confirmations too.
Real Results from Wallet-Based Loyalty
Retailers using Sticky Cards see:
2x to 3x higher opt-in rates than SMS
70%+ of customers joining in under 10 seconds
Increased repeat visits and spend per customer
Higher ROI due to no SMS fees
Final Tips to Increase Loyalty Opt-Ins
Keep your pitch simple: “Add this to your wallet for rewards.”
Don’t make sign-up a separate step - integrate it into checkout.
Use push notifications to keep customers engaged after they opt in.
Monitor opt-in % monthly and optimize based on location, time, and staff performance.
The Sticky Cards Advantage
Sticky Cards helps dispensaries:
Skip SMS registration and fees
Send wallet push notifications to drive repeat visits
Increase loyalty opt-in cannabis rates in days, not months
