In recent years, smoke and vape shops began to pop up everywhere as consumers started to choose tobacco-free products.
While the smoke and vape industry is growing in popularity, there are some roadblocks when it comes to running this type of business. One obstacle you need to battle is how to market your business online.
Due to many restrictions on this industry type, you may feel a little overwhelmed and unsure where to begin when it comes to marketing your smoke or vape shop.
Well, you don’t have to tackle your marketing alone! Our team of experts at RevLocal is here to help.
So, take a deep breath and get ready to inhale the following info so you can improve your smoke shop’s online presence!
Restrictions for Smoke and Vape Shops
When it comes to marketing your smoke or vape shop online, paid advertising is off the table due to strict policies against the promotion of smoke or vape products.
Google tells us that “ads for products designed to simulate tobacco smoking” are not allowed, and this includes electronic and herbal cigarettes. However, ads for tobacco are also prohibited.
Social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, also have policies against the promotion of tobacco and vape products.
Don’t let this get you down, though! When it comes to digital marketing, there are many other strategies to consider. Let’s talk about each one in detail.
Why You Should Utilize Local Search for Your Smoke or Vape Shop
When consumers are trying to find your smoke shop online, it’s essential that you show up in the local search results. However, showing up isn’t the only thing you need to do.
You need to make sure your website is optimized for local traffic and that you’re featuring your products.
When you partner with us at RevLocal, we will create a locally optimized website, called a microsite, to enhance your current website.
Our website services have a focus on driving sales for your smoke shop and featuring your inventory.
Utilizing a website service through our local search plan also allows us to satisfy two audiences – consumers and search engines. Learn why it’s so important to satisfy both audiences here.
Consider Social Media
Just like the vape industry is continuing to grow, so is social media! Nowadays, consumers and businesses alike utilize social media to communicate with each other.
As a smoke or vape shop owner, social media is one of the best marketing strategies to build a strong connection with your followers while showcasing your latest products.
Having a consistent social media presence allows you to create a visual story relating to your products. Not only can you post photos, but you can feature product videos and go live to keep your followers up to date.
Keeping up with your social media can leave you in a haze, but that’s why we have our social media plan. Our team will work with you to supplement what you’re already doing and continue to build your following.
Plus, when you pair your social media and local search plans, we can connect your social channels to your website feed. Ultimately, this means more exposure for your business!
Review Marketing Creates Loyalty
Before we jump in, I want you to think about something. When you find a business or shop you really like, do you return to it? Most likely your answer is yes.
The same goes for smoke and vape shops! Once a consumer finds a shop they really like, their loyalty grows exponentially. It’s almost as if they become a brand ambassador for your business.
Because of this loyalty, it’s easy to get consumers to leave reviews after an experience with your shop.
Keep in mind, though, that smoke shops can be competitive. Once a customer is loyal, most times they won’t go to another shop. It’s getting a new consumer in the marketing funnel to begin with that’s the tricky part.
To gain more customers, many vape shops will offer reward/loyalty programs to stay in line or ahead of their competition. With loyalty systems collecting customer information, such as name, email and phone number, we can create review campaigns for your shop.
A review campaign set up through our review marketing platform, Renown, allows us to send review requests to your customers.
The more reviews that highlight how great of a shop you have helps other consumers choose your business during the customer journey.
Final Thoughts
Marketing doesn’t have to be difficult for your smoke or vape shop. While there are some challenges to overcome, don’t let it hold you back!
When you have a comprehensive strategy that includes local search, social media and review marketing, your vape shop will work toward an improved online presence.
We know that running your business and juggling your marketing at the same time can be a lot, so let us take digital marketing off your plate!
At RevLocal, we keep your best interest in mind. Our teams use industry best practices and current trends to guide you in finding the right digital marketing strategy for your smoke shop.
If you’re ready to focus on your customers, request a no-obligation demo with one of our local consultants today to learn how we have your digital marketing handled.
This blog was written in collaboration with Hannah Lawrence and Lauryn Rabold, Digital Marketing Strategists on our retail team.