In the ever-evolving world of cannabis retail, one debate is heating up behind dispensary counters: should artificial intelligence (AI) or human staff control the cannabis menu? As the industry embraces technology, dispensaries are finding themselves at a crossroads—choosing between data-driven automation and human expertise to curate the product lineup that customers see online and in store. While both approaches offer unique strengths, understanding the pros and cons of each can help determine the best strategy for your retail operation.
The Rise of AI in Menu Management
AI-powered menu platforms are becoming increasingly popular among dispensaries looking to streamline their operations. These systems pull real-time data from point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory levels, and customer purchase patterns to automatically update and organize menus. This means less time spent manually entering products or updating prices, and more time for budtenders to focus on in-person service.
AI also introduces predictive capabilities. With machine learning algorithms, menus can highlight products based on what similar customers have purchased, the time of day, or current promotions. These tools can suggest bundles, recommend strain alternatives, and optimize the visibility of high-margin or slow-moving products.
From a compliance perspective, AI helps reduce human error in labeling THC/CBD percentages, descriptions, or health disclaimers. Automated syncing ensures consistency across in-store kiosks, mobile apps, and third-party delivery platforms—an essential feature in states with strict regulatory oversight.
The Human Touch: Why Manual Curation Still Matters
Despite its efficiency, AI can lack nuance. Manual curation—typically done by the store manager, lead budtender, or marketing team—brings a layer of personalization and brand identity that an algorithm can’t replicate. A human curator knows which products align with the store’s ethos, local market trends, and what regular customers ask for week after week.
For example, a dispensary known for its boutique, craft flower may want to highlight small-batch growers over big-name producers, even if the data suggests the latter outsells the former. Manual control allows for storytelling, local partnerships, and experiential themes that create emotional loyalty—not just sales conversions.
Budtenders also gain valuable customer insights through face-to-face interaction, something algorithms can’t fully replicate. A good curator may spot opportunities based on upcoming events, customer anecdotes, or seasonal shifts that AI simply can’t detect in the data.
Finding the Balance
The best menus likely don’t rely solely on AI or manual effort—they blend both. Think of AI as the engine that powers the system, while human curation provides the steering. AI can flag inventory changes, generate insights, and keep compliance tight. Meanwhile, your staff can prioritize which products to spotlight, which vendors to feature, and how to shape the customer journey with intention.
Some dispensaries use AI as a first pass, letting the system sort products based on availability and popularity, while the team fine-tunes the layout based on store priorities. Others assign tiers—using AI for bulk flower and pre-rolls, while curating topicals or high-end concentrates manually.
Parting Thoughts
So, who should control the menu—AI or humans? The answer isn’t either/or. AI brings speed, accuracy, and efficiency. Human curation brings soul, strategy, and connection. In today’s cannabis retail climate, it’s not about choosing sides—it’s about collaboration. Let technology do the heavy lifting, but never underestimate the power of the human touch when it comes to building a menu that resonates and retains.