EXCLUSIVE: AI In Dispensaries? New Tech Aims To Personalize Cannabis Shopping Experience

Genetica, led by CEO Ben York, is introducing new technologies to enhance the retail experience in the cannabis and CBD industries.

York told Benzinga the impact of two products, Flora Match, and Flora OS, on streamlining operations and improving customer engagement.

Since assuming leadership in 2023, York has been at the forefront of integrating these technologies to address the challenges retailers and consumers face in the evolving cannabis market.

Foundational Aspects Of Flora AI

York says Genetica’s inception traces back to the practical challenges encountered by the company’s founder, Christian Blake, in CBD retail. York quoted Blake’s observations: “He saw firsthand the challenges customers face…He realized budtenders couldn’t be expected to know everything.”

This recognition led to the development of Flora Match, designed to assist sales staff and customers in making informed product choices through an AI-powered platform.

Personalization At The Forefront

York views Flora Match as a game-changer in how cannabis products are selected and purchased, bringing unprecedented personalization to the consumer experience.

He asserted, “I see AI informing customer’s purchasing decisions in an unbiased and personalized manner,” emphasizing the technology’s ability to accommodate the diverse preferences and requirements of a broad customer base.

Integration Into Retail Environments

The deployment of Flora Match into various retail settings has presented its challenges, mainly due to the differing operational models among cannabis stores.

York discussed Flora Match’s adaptive nature, stating, “It’s really challenging to develop a product that’s malleable enough to fit each of those environments, but that’s been our approach since day one.”

This adaptability highlights Genetica’s commitment to enhancing retail experiences across various store layouts.

Anticipated Developments And Regulatory Adherence

York touched upon the anticipated integration between Flora Match and the soon-to-be-released Flora OS, aiming to streamline retail management processes.

He pointed out, “Flora Match is critical to proper utilization of Flora OS,” underscoring the synergy between consumer insights from Flora Match and operational strategies within Flora OS.

Furthermore, York reassured stakeholders of Genetica’s dedication to regulatory compliance amidst the complex legal framework surrounding cannabis sales.

European Market Entry Strategy

With an eye on global expansion, York highlighted Genetica’s strategic move into the German market, which aligns with recent legislative shifts toward cannabis legalization in Europe.

“We’re actively in the process of deploying Flora Match in the German market,” York revealed, signaling Genetica’s readiness to tailor its technology offerings to the distinct regulatory and consumer landscapes in Europe.

The Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference is returning to Florida in a new venue in Hollywood on April 16 and 17, 2024. The two-day event at The Diplomat Beach Resort will be a chance for entrepreneurs, both large and small, to network, learn, and grow. 

Renowned for its trendsetting abilities and influence on the future of cannabis, mark your calendars — this conference is the go-to event of the year for the cannabis world. Get your tickets now on bzcannabis.com – Prices will increase very soon!

Image: Generated by OpenAI’s DALL·E