The legal cannabis industry has experienced exponential growth within the last decade. New laws and regulations have created a budding industry. However, much of this growth has been asymmetric, as cannabis laws vary from state to state, with some legalizing it outright, others legalizing it for medical purposes only, some decriminalizing its consumption, and the rest having it banned entirely.
Since cannabis is still outlawed federally, the industry faces unique security challenges and stringent permitting and compliance standards, which also vary greatly from state to state. Security is an integral part to the cannabis industry. To get the most robust protection, cannabis industry leaders and consultants need a security partner who understands the ins and outs of the industry and can help them address current and future security concerns. With so many factors to consider, here are some qualities you should look for in order to get the most from your security provider:
1. They Understand State and Federal Cannabis Regulations
Perhaps the most important factor when partnering with a security provider is whether they understand the state and federal regulations for the cannabis industry.
You need a trusted provider who can successfully integrate your specific business in compliance with all relevant regulations. A security provider should understand the nuances and security challenges for each type of business in the cannabis sector. Look for a provider that has a dedicated team for the cannabis industry, as they’re more likely to have the expertise and knowledge needed to tackle all the regulatory challenges ahead.
2. They Know How to Work with Different Areas of the Industry
The cannabis industry is expansive, containing retailers, wholesalers, testers, distributors, and growers. Each segment has distinct security challenges that necessitate specialized knowledge and tailored solutions. A security provider well-versed in the intricacies of the cannabis landscape can offer customized strategies to address the specific security risks faced by each type of business.
Whether you own or operate a medical marijuana clinic, a growing facility, or a recreational dispensary, a specialized security partner can implement robust security measures that cater to the unique vulnerabilities of each cannabis business. From seed to sale, they should have your business covered.
3. They Provide Permit Application Support and Design
A huge hurdle for any cannabis business is the permitting and design process. Understanding regulations is one thing. But having a security provider there to ensure your security plans adhere to the necessary mandates while you establish your businesses makes all the difference.
For new cannabis businesses, a security provider should continually work with you to ensure you get your license and get your business operational. When it comes to already established entities, they should address any security concerns or pitfalls while remaining compliant to the most up-to-date standards.
4. They Can Coordinate Effectively with Third-Party Service Providers
Getting a cannabis business operational requires many key hurdles and outside support. Collaboration between security providers and third-party service providers is vital. Security providers must be able to seamlessly integrate with third-party entities to ensure a cohesive and comprehensive security strategy throughout the entire process.
It's important to note the sooner all third-party entities are on the same page, the better the process will play out. It’s easier for everyone to work together at the beginning then to retroactively add different service providers later. However, not every cannabis business is the same and project timelines are going to vary, so there has to be a level of flexibility with a security provider when working with third-party vendors too.
5. They Provide Ongoing Customer Service and Technical Support
The job isn’t done when your cannabis business becomes operational. On the contrary, when it comes to security, it should only be the beginning. The nature of the cannabis industry demands a continuous and reliable security infrastructure to safeguard assets, protect employees, and remain compliant with ever-evolving regulations.
An experienced security provider should offer continual customer service to ensure your cannabis business receives prompt and effective assistance whenever required, fostering a strong partnership built on trust and reliability.
Technical issues can also arise unexpectedly and may have severe consequences if not addressed promptly. When integrating cutting-edge cannabis security solutions, you should seek a security partner who provides skilled technical support to troubleshoot and resolve any problems efficiently. Furthermore, a security provider should proactively monitor and update your security systems to maintain compliance with the latest regulations.
Cannabis Security Solutions with Vector Security
If you’re a new or established cannabis business or a cannabis consultant, consider partnering with Vector Security. With cannabis industry experience, Vector Security brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, specifically tailored to the unique challenges of the cannabis industry. We have a dedicated cannabis solutions team determined to provide comprehensive security solutions that cater to your cannabis business needs.
Our commitment doesn't end with installation. We offer ongoing support to ensure your business security remains up-to-date with the latest standards and regulations. Our dedicated support team is available to assist with any technical issues, conduct system updates, and provide guidance on optimizing your security infrastructure as your business evolves.
The legal cannabis industry is ripe with potential. To get the most out of your cannabis business, partner with the security experts you can trust. For more information on how Vector Security has helped cannabis providers reach their business goals, feel free to contact us today.
