Among the many new state laws that went into effect on Jan. 1 is one that is welcomed by those in the cannabis business – particularly those who are looking to get a foothold in what can be a very competitive, crowded retail market.
Those who deliver cannabis can now carry twice the value at any one time as before. The maximum is now $10,000 instead of $5,000. Further, none of it has to be intended for specific customers – in other words, to fulfill specific orders. The entire amount can be “unordered.” Previously, only $3,000 of it could be.
The “ice cream truck model”
This practice of carrying a supply that’s not for scheduled delivery has been called the “ice cream truck model,” because drivers can sell to those who know their location without a previous order being placed. This is in contrast to the “pizza delivery model,” where customers order their cannabis online and then it’s delivered to them.
Of course, that doesn’t mean that any “Weed is Us” cars will be traveling around the streets of Santa Monica looking for customers. A large amount of cannabis and cash is a robbery waiting to happen. More likely, retailers will text or email their customers in a particular area to let them know when one of their drivers will be in the area and let them know what kinds of cannabis products they’re carrying.
The opportunity for more sales
This new law gives businesses the ability to sell more product in any given period of time than they can when their drivers have to wait for people to place orders before they can head out on the road. Notifying regular as well as sporadic customers who may not be considering buying cannabis during “peak” times like playoff games or awards shows that one of their drivers will be nearby with a selection of something for everyone can be very profitable.
Whether you’re just starting your business or you’ve been up and running for some time, it’s crucial to keep up with the ever-changing state and local laws around cannabis – and to keep an eye out for changes in federal law as well. Having sound legal guidance can help you avoid unnecessary and potentially expensive legal issues.