This week’s Trailblazer is Nick Baksh, Founder of Montrose, an award-winning cannabis retail store located in Pickering, Ontario.
Questions with a Cannabis Industry Trailblazer
When did you first become involved in the cannabis industry and why?
Est 2014. I needed another source of income and Canada’s cost of living was about to take off.
What has been the biggest challenge you have faced when working with cannabis companies/brands?
Such a huge disconnect for the digital assets needed for their product launches. With 2000-3000 new products each year. LP’s gotta create way more digital assets needed for us retailers.
If you could change one of the current Canadian or American marketing restrictions on cannabis, which would it be?
I’d say fuck the marketing restrictions, let your brand shine and break through those norms!
In your observation, what marketing techniques or channels have been most effective for cannabis companies looking to connect with consumers?
Boat cruises with food, drinks and vibes has been the most recent best because the weather is great. Remember LP’s: retailers are your clients, consumers are the retailers. Take care of your retailers and you’ll see increases in your brand market share and conversion.
Are there any other Trailblazers in the cannabis industry that you follow?
The women that work at Montrose, The company (being e-comm first) doesn’t have “budtenders” they have an ecomm manager, Ops manager, product associate, etc. The women here are shaping what the company is becoming, iteration by iteration.
What is one tip or piece of advice you would give to marketers looking to enter the cannabis industry?
U gotta try-try in this industry for sureeeee!! Don’t enter soft. Come out guns blazing, like back in the day haha
A big thank you to Nick from Montrose for participating as this week’s Trailblazer! Stay tuned for another interview with a cannabis marketing Trailblazer next Thursday in the ADCANN blog.
