Why Can’t Cannabis Dispensaries Advertise on Google Ads

PowerTraffick PPC Management Services Logo

Cannabis has become a growing industry, and its legalization in many states has allowed many businesses to thrive. One of the biggest challenges that cannabis dispensaries face is advertising their products, particularly on Google Ads. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this restriction, how it affects cannabis dispensaries and alternative advertising strategies to cannabis Google ads that can be used.

In recent years, cannabis dispensaries have emerged as a lucrative business model. However, advertising these businesses has proven challenging, with strict restrictions on advertising regulations. While Google Ads remains a popular advertising platform, cannabis dispensaries are prohibited from advertising their products on this platform. This article will discuss the reasons behind this restriction and how it affects cannabis dispensaries.

Federal Restrictions

One of the primary reasons why cannabis dispensaries can’t advertise on Google Ads is due to federal restrictions. Despite the legalization of cannabis in some states, it is still illegal under federal law. The Controlled Substances Act classifies cannabis as a Schedule I drug, which means that it is considered to have a high potential for abuse and has no currently accepted medical use.

Google is a multinational company that operates in different countries, including the United States. As a result, they must comply with federal laws and illegal advertising of products under federal law is not allowed.

Google Ads Policy

Another reason why cannabis dispensaries can’t advertise on Google Ads is because of the platform’s policy. Google has strict guidelines on what content can be advertised on its platform, and cannabis-related products are prohibited. This includes products that contain THC, CBD, or any other derivatives of cannabis.

Google Ads policy explicitly prohibits promoting products that violate applicable laws or regulations, including products that contain illegal substances under federal law. Therefore, cannabis dispensaries cannot advertise on Google Ads, regardless of the product’s legality in the state.

Effect on Cannabis Dispensaries

The inability to advertise on Google Ads significantly impacts cannabis dispensaries. Advertising is a crucial aspect of any business; companies can attract customers. Cannabis dispensaries have limited advertising options, which makes it difficult for them to compete with other businesses that can advertise on Google Ads.

Furthermore, cannabis dispensaries are often subject to strict regulations, including the prohibition of advertising on billboards, television, and radio. This makes it challenging for dispensaries to reach a broad audience and promote their products.

Alternative Advertising Strategies

Cannabis dispensaries have had to develop alternative advertising strategies to reach their target audience. These strategies include social media, email, influencer, and content marketing. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook have become popular marketing channels for cannabis dispensaries.

However, social media platforms also have their own set of restrictions on cannabis-related content. Cannabis dispensaries must comply with the regulations set by these platforms to avoid account suspension or removal.

Cannabis dispensaries cannot advertise on Google Ads due to federal restrictions and Google Ads policy. 

This significantly impacts their ability to attract customers and compete with other businesses.

 Alternative advertising strategies have become necessary, and cannabis dispensaries have had to be creative to reach their target audience.

FAQs

Can cannabis dispensaries advertise on any other search engines?

• • Yes, search engines allow cannabis-related advertising, such as Bing and Yahoo.

Can cannabis dispensaries advertise on social media platforms?

• • Yes, cannabis dispensaries can advertise on social media platforms, but they must comply with the regulations set by the platform.

Are there any restrictions on how cannabis dispensaries can advertise on social media?

• • Yes, social media platforms have their own set of restrictions on cannabis-related content, including limitations on promoting products containing THC or CBD.

How do cannabis dispensaries typically market their products without being able to use Google Ads?

• • Cannabis dispensaries often use alternative marketing strategies like social media, email, influencer, and content marketing.

Will Google Ads ever allow cannabis-related advertising in the future?

• • It’s still being determined whether Google Ads will change its policy to allow cannabis-related advertising in the future. It will depend on changes in federal laws and regulations surrounding cannabis.

The industry continues to grow and thrive despite the restrictions on advertising cannabis-related products. Cannabis dispensaries must continue to find creative ways to market their products, expert agencies like Reefferr can help with marketing like SEO and banner ads on forums and blogs, to reach their target audience while complying with regulations. With the increasing popularity and acceptance of cannabis, advertising policies may change, but for now, cannabis dispensaries must rely on alternative advertising strategies to succeed.