As the world faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses in every industry had to pivot quickly—and the cannabis industry was no exception. With uncertainty around lockdowns, consumers stocked up on products in record numbers, leading to a surge in cannabis sales across the U.S.
For A Therapeutic Alternative in Sacramento, the sudden increase in demand meant rethinking how to serve customers while ensuring their health and safety.
A Historic Cannabis Sales Surge
At the height of the pandemic, cannabis sales skyrocketed nationwide. In California, sales jumped 159% on March 16, 2020, compared to the same day in 2019. Other states, including Colorado and Washington, also saw massive spikes in sales, as consumers rushed to dispensaries, uncertain if they would remain open.
Retailers like A Therapeutic Alternative had to make quick decisions. Would they stock up on inventory? How could they continue serving patients safely if stores were forced to close?
A Therapeutic Alternative’s Response
Recognizing the importance of safe and accessible cannabis, Kimberly Cargile, CEO of A Therapeutic Alternative, took proactive measures to ensure customers could still get the products they needed.
- Online Orders & Curbside Pickup – Seeing a shift in buying habits, Cargile petitioned the Bureau of Cannabis Control (BCC) for emergency curbside pickup approval—which was granted for 30 days.
- Planning for Delivery – With concerns about possible retail closures, Cargile also applied for a delivery license, ensuring that A Therapeutic Alternative could continue serving patients in case in-store shopping became impossible.
- Managing Inventory – While sales surged, the team monitored inventory closely, balancing demand with the risk of overstocking in an uncertain retail climate.
“We are thinking about stocking up on inventory, but we are trying to take it day by day,” Cargile explained.
The Future of Cannabis Retail
The surge in sales during the pandemic highlighted the essential role of cannabis in many people’s lives. What was once a heavily regulated and stigmatized industry was now recognized as a critical service for medical patients and recreational users alike.
For dispensaries like A Therapeutic Alternative, the shift toward online ordering, curbside pickup, and potential delivery options represents a lasting change in how customers interact with the industry.
As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, A Therapeutic Alternative remains committed to adapting and ensuring access to high-quality cannabis for all who need it.
Learn More
For more updates on our services, visit A Therapeutic Alternative.
