By Kim Pickett, Principal of KIMBO Design

It may surprise people to know that marijuana needs good branding. While Canada’s politicians look at regulations with respect to production, distribution, the retail and consumption of marijuana, KIMBO Design has been busy advising dispensary clients about the importance of good branding.

Dispensaries are starting to take branding seriously and whoever will spend the money on proper branding will prosper.

The City of Vancouver wants to ensure a careful balance between adequate availability of medical marijuana for those in need, while safeguarding community health, safety, security, aesthetics, equity, and enjoyment of property.

Vancouver’s crackdown on illegal dispensaries has dominated the news headlines; however, legitimate dispensaries are starting to realize that dark-tinted windows and pot leaf logos are not enough to convince or welcome customers into trusting these dispensaries are indeed legitimate and adhere to the city’s standards.

The number of marijuana-related businesses in Vancouver grew by 100 per cent per year from mid- 2013 to mid-2015, and in the first six months of 2015 there was an increase from 60 to 100 businesses (www.vancouver.ca). Up to now there’s been a lack of a clear and transparent regulatory framework from the Government of Canada; however the Federal Health Minister has announced legislation to legalize marijuana will be ready in a year.