How to Drive App Downloads

Here are some strategies you can implement immediately to get your app in front of customers and start turning them into loyal users.

1 | Promote It on Your Website

Your website is prime real estate for app promotion. Make sure it’s easy to find:

- Homepage Banner: Add a bold, eye-catching banner that links directly to the app’s download page.

- Top-of-Page Notice: Use a sticky banner at the top of your site that directs users to download the app for iOS or Android.

- Footer Link: Keep app download links in your footer so they’re always accessible.

- Pop-Ups & Exit Prompts: A quick reminder before they leave your site could be just what they need to hit “download.”

2 | Use In-Store Promotions

Your dispensary is the perfect place to spread the word about your app. Try these tactics:

- QR Code Posters: Display a QR code near checkout or in waiting areas, linking directly to your app.

- TV Screens & Digital Signage: Showcase the app’s perks on in-store screens.

- Receipts & Shopping Bags: Print a QR code and app info on receipts or stickers for shopping bags as a reminder after they leave.

3 | Incentivize

- Sign-up Incentives: Encourage customers to download the app by offering a welcome perk, such as 100 points or $5 off their first purchase. The incentive can be as small or as generous as you like. Users are often willing to sign up for even a small reward.

- App-for-Merch Deal: Offer a free low-cost item like trays, lighters or batteries in exchange for downloading and signing up for the app while in-store.

4 | Get Your Budtenders on Board

Your team can make a huge difference in getting customers to download the app.

- Referral Contests: Give budtenders personal referral codes and reward the top referrer with a prize.

- Simple Recommendations: Train staff to casually mention the app at checkout and highlight its benefits. Encourage them to promote in-app offers, like welcome deals and exclusive discounts.
 

5 | Use Email & SMS 

Your existing customers are a goldmine for app downloads. Reach them where they are:

- Dedicated Email Blast: Send an email showcasing the app’s benefits with direct download links.

- SMS Reminder: If customers have opted in for texts, send a short, friendly message with a download link to keep them engaged.

6 | Google Business Profile

Take advantage of local search to drive more people to your app:

- Create a Google Business Post: Highlight your new app, mention any welcome offers, and include a link to the QR download page or app store.

- Temporarily Replace Your Website Link on GBP: During launch period, update your Google Business Profile website link to point directly to your app download page.

- Add to the Q&A Section: Post and answer a question about your mobile app so customers see it when they search for your dispensary.

Make Downloading Your App a No-Brainer

A few simple moves like website banners, in-store QR codes, including it on your GBP and staff recommendations can make a huge impact. The key is to make it easy, enticing, and a natural part of their shopping experience. Try these tips (where legally allowed) today and watch your app become a must-have for your customers.

Best of luck!