Cannabis advertising trends: Top 5 Exciting Shifts 2025

Cannabis advertising trends are shaping the market in 2025, driven by significant growth and evolving legalization landscapes. Here’s what you need to know right away:

• Market Expansion: The U.S. cannabis market is projected to reach over $40 billion in sales by year-end, outpacing industries like craft beer and chocolate.
• Legalization Shifts: More states are legalizing cannabis for medical and recreational use, increasing market opportunities but also regulatory complexities.
• Advertising Challenges: Despite growing acceptance, cannabis advertising faces strict regulations on major platforms like Google and social media, requiring creative strategies for compliance.

These dynamics highlight the opportunities and obstacles in promoting cannabis products effectively.

As Stephen Gold, a seasoned cannabis marketing professional, I help businesses thrive in this evolving market. With deep expertise in cannabis advertising trends, my data-driven strategies improve brand visibility while ensuring regulatory compliance. Stay tuned to expand on these insights.

In the rapidly evolving cannabis market, programmatic advertising is leading the way in 2025. This approach uses advanced algorithms to deliver targeted ads to specific demographics and interests. It’s like having a digital matchmaker for your brand, ensuring that your message reaches the right people at the right time.

One standout example of programmatic advertising is Connected TV (CTV), which allows cannabis brands to deliver ads through internet-connected screens. This method offers more precise targeting than traditional TV ads, allowing brands to comply with regulations while reaching their audience. With projections indicating that cannabis advertising on CTV could yield a return on ad spend (ROAS) of up to 19x, it’s a game-changer for marketers.

Next up is digital out-of-home (DOOH) advertising. This includes digital billboards and screens in public spaces, offering a fresh way to engage consumers. While traditional advertising still takes the lion’s share of cannabis ad spend, DOOH is gaining traction due to its ability to reach consumers on the move. It’s an effective way to bridge the gap between cannabis-focused and mainstream audiences.

Finally, real-world engagement is crucial for building brand loyalty. This involves creating memorable experiences that connect with consumers on a personal level. Whether it’s through interactive events or in-store demonstrations, real-world engagement helps brands stand out in a crowded market. For example, hosting educational sessions about cannabis products can explain the buying process and foster a deeper connection with customers.

These cannabis advertising trends are not just about keeping up with the competition; they’re about staying ahead. By embracing programmatic advertising, leveraging DOOH, and creating real-world experiences, cannabis brands can effectively steer the complex landscape of 2025.

Stay tuned for more insights on how personalized consumer experiences are reshaping the cannabis market.

Personalized Consumer Experiences

In 2025, the cannabis industry is all about personalized consumer experiences. This shift is driven by the power of data analytics and AI, which allow brands to tailor their offerings to individual preferences.

Imagine walking into a dispensary and being greeted by a virtual assistant that knows your past purchases, current mood, and desired effects. This isn’t science fiction—it’s the future of cannabis retail. By leveraging AI, brands can offer custom recommendations that make shopping more personal and engaging.

Data Analytics: The Backbone of Personalization

Data analytics plays a crucial role in understanding consumer behavior. By analyzing purchase histories and feedback, brands can predict what products will appeal to different segments of their audience. This is not just about increasing sales; it’s about enhancing the customer journey.

For example, if a customer frequently buys CBD products for anxiety, the system might suggest new strains or products specifically designed for relaxation. This level of personalization can lead to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.

AI-Powered Custom Recommendations

AI takes personalization a step further by offering real-time recommendations. This technology can analyze data on the fly, adapting to changes in consumer preferences. It’s like having a personal shopper who knows exactly what you need, even before you do.

Consider a scenario where a customer is browsing an online cannabis store. The AI can suggest products based on their browsing history, creating a seamless and intuitive shopping experience. This not only improves the user experience but also increases the likelihood of conversion.

The Future of Cannabis Retail

The integration of data analytics and AI in the cannabis industry will become more sophisticated. Brands that accept these technologies will stand out by offering personalized experiences that resonate with consumers.

Personalization is not just a trend; it’s a necessity in a market flooded with options. By focusing on individual needs and preferences, cannabis brands can create meaningful connections with their customers, ensuring long-term success.

Next, we’ll explore how influencer and social media marketing are evolving to further improve consumer engagement in the cannabis industry.

Influencer and Social Media Marketing Evolution

In the changing world of cannabis advertising, influencer and social media marketing are taking center stage. These platforms are not just about flashy ads; they’re about building genuine connections with consumers. Let’s explore how this is changing the industry.

Micro-Influencers: The New Power Players

Micro-influencers, those with 1,000 to 50,000 followers, are becoming key players in cannabis marketing. Why? Because they offer authenticity and have highly engaged, niche audiences.

Unlike macro-influencers with massive followings, micro-influencers often interact more personally with their followers. This makes them ideal for cannabis brands that want to connect on a deeper level. A CBD brand, for example, might collaborate with a wellness influencer who shares personal stories about using CBD for relaxation. This kind of partnership feels genuine and relatable, fostering trust.

Organic Content: The Heartbeat of Engagement

Gone are the days of hard-selling tactics. Today, it’s all about organic content that resonates with audiences. Cannabis brands are focusing on creating content that feels natural and engaging.

Think of content like tutorials, lifestyle posts, or even user-generated content. A tutorial on choosing the right strain can educate and empower consumers, making them feel part of a community. This approach not only builds brand loyalty but also encourages followers to share their experiences, amplifying the brand’s reach.

Community-Building: Creating a Loyal Following

Building a community is more than just gaining followers—it’s about creating a space where people feel valued and heard. Cannabis brands are leveraging social media to foster community-building.

By engaging in conversations, hosting live Q&A sessions, or sharing user stories, brands can create a sense of belonging. For instance, a cannabis company might host a virtual event where customers can share their experiences and ask questions. This not only strengthens the brand’s relationship with its audience but also turns customers into brand advocates.

The Future of Cannabis Marketing

As we look to 2025, the evolution of influencer and social media marketing will continue to shape how cannabis brands connect with consumers. The focus will be on creating meaningful, authentic interactions that build trust and loyalty.

In the next section, we’ll explore how experiential and immersive marketing are enhancing consumer experiences, taking engagement to a whole new level.

Experiential and Immersive Marketing

In 2025, experiential and immersive marketing will redefine how cannabis brands engage with their audience. This isn’t just about selling a product; it’s about creating memorable experiences that captivate consumers in innovative ways.

Virtual and Augmented Reality: A New Dimension

Imagine stepping into a virtual cannabis garden from your living room. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are changing how consumers interact with cannabis brands.

With VR, consumers can explore the history and cultivation process of their favorite strains without leaving their homes. AR, on the other hand, offers unique in-store experiences, like using a smartphone to scan a product and instantly see detailed information about its effects and origins.

These technologies offer an immersive way to learn about cannabis, making the buying journey both educational and entertaining.

Cannabis Festivals: More Than Just a Party

Cannabis festivals are evolving into immersive events that engage all the senses. These festivals are no longer just about music and fun; they are platforms for brands to connect with consumers on a deeper level.

Brands can set up interactive booths where attendees can experience their products firsthand, participate in workshops, or even enjoy live cooking demonstrations using cannabis-infused ingredients. These events provide a unique opportunity to build brand loyalty and educate consumers in a relaxed, enjoyable setting.

Sensory-Focused Experiences: Engaging All Senses

Cannabis brands are increasingly focusing on sensory experiences to create a holistic connection with their audience. This approach involves engaging sight, smell, touch, taste, and sound to improve the consumer experience.

Picture a pop-up shop where visitors can smell different strains, taste cannabis-infused snacks, and listen to music that complements the effects of various products. By creating a multi-sensory experience, brands can leave a lasting impression and foster a deeper connection with their consumers.

In the following section, we’ll dig into how sustainability and transparency are becoming essential elements in cannabis marketing, as consumers demand more eco-friendly and ethically sourced products.

Sustainability and Transparency

In 2025, sustainability and transparency are not just buzzwords in the cannabis industry; they are central to consumer demand and brand differentiation. As more consumers become eco-conscious, cannabis brands are stepping up to meet these expectations with eco-friendly practices and ethical sourcing.

Eco-Friendly Practices: A Green Revolution

Cannabis brands are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices to minimize their environmental impact. This shift is driven by the growing awareness among consumers who prefer products that are kind to the planet. According to a 2023 study by PDI Technologies, 66% of U.S. consumers and a whopping 80% of young adults are willing to pay more for sustainable products.

Brands are responding by using recycled materials for packaging and reducing waste in their production processes. For instance, e-commerce platforms that accept eco-friendly packaging have seen a 15% rise in average conversion rates, highlighting the direct impact of sustainability on consumer behavior.

Ethical Sourcing: Building Trust

Alongside sustainability, ethical sourcing is crucial for earning consumer trust. Transparency about where and how cannabis is grown is becoming a key selling point. Consumers are keen to know that their products are sourced from farms that prioritize fair labor practices and environmentally friendly cultivation methods.

Brands that highlight their commitment to ethical sourcing, such as partnering with organic growers or supporting local communities, can differentiate themselves in a crowded market. This authenticity not only builds trust but also fosters loyalty among consumers who value ethical considerations in their purchasing decisions.

Consumer Demand: Driving Change

The demand for transparency and sustainability is reshaping the cannabis market. Consumers now expect brands to be open about their practices and to provide detailed information about product origins and ingredients. This shift is reflected in the increasing popularity of products with clear and honest labeling, which helps consumers make informed choices.

As the cannabis industry continues to grow, brands that prioritize eco-friendly and ethical practices are likely to thrive. By aligning with consumer values, these brands can not only meet market demands but also contribute to a more sustainable and responsible industry.

Next, we’ll explore how personalized consumer experiences are shaping the future of cannabis marketing, with data analytics and AI playing pivotal roles in creating custom recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cannabis Advertising Trends

What is the trend in the cannabis market?

The cannabis market is experiencing significant growth, with North America leading the charge. In 2024, the U.S. cannabis market was projected to reach $38.4 billion in sales, with expectations of hitting $40 billion by the end of the year. This rapid expansion is fueled by increasing legalization across states and a shift in societal attitudes toward cannabis use.

In North America, the cannabis market is particularly dominant due to progressive policies and a large consumer base. As more states legalize cannabis for both medicinal and recreational use, the market continues to expand, attracting new consumers and investors alike.

What is the trend in cannabis consumers?

Cannabis consumers are becoming more diverse, with daily use on the rise. A growing number of individuals are incorporating cannabis into their daily routines, whether for relaxation, wellness, or medicinal purposes. This trend is supported by the increasing availability of cannabis products in various forms, such as edibles, tinctures, and topicals.

Consumer preferences are also evolving. There is a noticeable shift toward products that offer specific benefits, such as pain relief or sleep aid, rather than just recreational use. This change in consumer behavior is driving brands to innovate and create products that cater to these specific needs.

What is the future of the cannabis market?

The future of the cannabis market looks promising, with the CBD market playing a significant role in its growth. CBD, the non-psychoactive component of cannabis, is gaining popularity for its potential health benefits. By 2024, the estimated CBD usage rate among U.S. adults was expected to reach 35%, up from just 6% in 2018.

Legalization is another critical factor shaping the future of the cannabis market. As more states and countries move toward legalization, the barriers to entry are decreasing, paving the way for new opportunities and innovations. This legislative shift is likely to continue, further normalizing cannabis use and expanding the market.

As we look ahead, the cannabis industry is ready for continued growth and change. Brands that stay ahead of consumer trends and accept innovation will be well-positioned to thrive in this dynamic market.

Next, we’ll explore how personalized consumer experiences are shaping the future of cannabis marketing, with data analytics and AI playing pivotal roles in creating custom recommendations.

Conclusion

As we steer the evolving landscape of cannabis advertising trends, it’s clear that staying compliant and building brand recognition are more important than ever. At The Gold Standard, we understand these challenges and are committed to helping cannabis businesses succeed.

Compliance is the backbone of any successful cannabis marketing strategy. With strict regulations governing the industry, it’s crucial to stay informed and adhere to both federal and state laws. This not only prevents legal issues but also builds trust with consumers. Our expertise in navigating these regulations ensures that your marketing efforts remain on the right side of the law.

Brand recognition is another key component in the competitive cannabis market. With the market projected to reach $40 billion in sales by the end of 2024, standing out is essential. We focus on creating unique brand identities that resonate with consumers, leveraging everything from digital platforms to real-world engagements.

Engagement strategies play a pivotal role in connecting with consumers. Whether through personalized experiences or immersive events, engaging your audience in meaningful ways fosters loyalty and drives growth. We tailor our strategies to meet the specific needs of your business, ensuring that you connect with your target audience effectively.

Our custom marketing solutions are designed to boost engagement, foot traffic, and brand recognition while ensuring compliance. By focusing on these core areas, we help your cannabis business thrive in a rapidly growing market.

Explore our SEO for Cannabis Industry Success to learn how we can lift your brand and maximize your reach. Let’s light up the market together!