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Cannabis brand names can be full of cliches and overused phrases. '420', 'Canna', and 'Green' are just a handful of the overuse words used in cannabis branding. The need for an impactful brand name is crucial as more states begin to open their cannabis market. There's limited space on dispensary shelves, so secure your place with a name that doesn't get lost in the crowd.
1. Crafting Your Identity
Before choosing a name, your cannabis brand should have a developed identity. Through colors, fonts, and specific imagery your products tell customers who you are.
Speaking to your target market is achieved through multiple layers of consistent and authentic storytelling. From there, you can begin to decide the right name to describe your carefully crafted brand.
Having the best flower or the best product selection is no longer enough to succeed. A large number of cannabis brands have entered the scene at once, making brand exposure highly competitive. In the long run, brands without a an attractive and memorable name will struggle.
One example of a great brand is the retro Toronto-based dispensary, Superette. Their shop from top to bottom represents the Superette aesthetic and message: that cannabis should be fun and inclusive. The name itself is a nod to the casual nature of a supermarket, inviting their shoppers into a nostalgic and familiar space. Through a descriptive and unique name, Superette stands out from common cannabis names.
2. Explore all Possibilities
When it comes to selecting a brand name for your
cannabis business, it's essential to dig deep into the different categories of brand names. A name is not just a label; it's an identity that will define your brand in the eyes of your customers.
To help you in this crucial decision-making process, explore various types of brand names that can align with your cannabis brand's goals and ethos. Some examples of name types are:
Descriptive names: Straightforward and tell customers exactly what you offer.
Origin names: Connects to a specific place or culture, emphasizing authenticity.
Emotive names: Aims to evoke strong feelings to connect with your audience.
Invented names: Creates a blank canvas for a unique brand identity.
These are just a few of the types of names you can utilize for a brand. By assessing the different kinds of names and how they have been applied, your brand can consider a larger number of name options.
Pro Tip: Don't fall in love with a name until you perform a trademark search! There's nothing worse than loving a name you can't use.
3. The Power of Feedback
Once you've explored various types of brand names, it's important to seek feedback from a diverse group of people. Your friends, family, and colleagues can be a good starting point but also consider conducting surveys or focus groups to gather a wider range of opinions.
This step is crucial because different perspectives can help you identify potential issues, hidden meanings, or associations that you might have missed.
Make sure to ask for honest and constructive feedback. Encourage participants to share their thoughts on the names you've come up with, and be open to criticism. Remember that the goal is to select a name that resonates with your target audience and accurately represents your brand identity, not to stick with your first and favorite option.
4. Bring your Brand Name to Life
Once you've gathered feedback and ensured that your chosen name is legally available, it's time to apply it to your brand. This involves updating your branding materials, such as your logo, packaging, website, and marketing materials, to incorporate the new name.
A brand name is only as strong as its presentation, so ensure that your visual branding is also helping to attract customers.
Consistency is key here. Ensure that your chosen name is reflected in all aspects of your brand, from the colors and fonts you use to the imagery and messaging. This consistency helps reinforce your brand identity and makes it easier for customers to recognize and remember your brand.
Promote your new name through various marketing channels, both online and offline. Social media, email marketing, and advertising are all effective ways to introduce your rebranded cannabis business to your target audience.
Summary:
Choosing the right name for your cannabis brand is a crucial step in establishing a strong and memorable presence in a competitive market. When doing so, remember to consider:
By building a solid brand identity, researching different types of brand names, relying on feedback, and applying your chosen name consistently, you can create a brand that stands out and resonates with your target audience. Your brand name is not just a label; it's an essential part of your brand's story and identity.