CBD Marketing Strategy: How to Promote Your CBD Store Without Google or Facebook Ads
44 mins read

CBD Marketing Strategy: How to Promote Your CBD Store Without Google or Facebook Ads

Table of Contents

Introduction: The CBD Industry Is Growing Fast

The CBD market in the U.S. is booming. Products like oils, gummies, and creams are now popular. Many people use CBD for stress, sleep, or pain relief. This fast growth means more CBD stores are opening every month.

According to industry data, the U.S. CBD market may reach over $20 billion by 2030. This is a huge opportunity for new and small CBD businesses. But getting noticed is a big challenge.

Marketing is the key to growing your CBD store. But here’s the problem — two of the biggest platforms won’t let you advertise.

Why You Can’t Run CBD Ads on Google or Facebook

Google and Facebook are powerful advertising tools. Together, they cover most of the online ad market. If you run an online store, you probably use them already.

But when it comes to CBD, they say no.

Their ad policies block the promotion of most CBD products. Even if your products are legal under U.S. law, these platforms consider them risky. In many cases, your ad account can be suspended for even trying.

Here’s why:

  • CBD is still under tight legal control.
  • The FDA hasn’t fully approved CBD for medical use.
  • Google and Facebook avoid risk by banning it altogether.

This means you can’t rely on Google Ads or Facebook Ads to grow your brand. Paid traffic is off the table — at least on these platforms.

So, what now?

There’s Still a Path — Organic and Alternative Strategies

You can still build a successful CBD brand. Many CBD stores generate huge traffic and loyal customers without running a single ad on Google or Facebook.

Instead of traditional ads, these stores focus on:

  • Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
  • Email marketing
  • Influencer partnerships
  • Educational content and blogs
  • Affiliate programs
  • Local SEO and directory listings

Each of these strategies works without violating ad policies. They also help you build long-term traffic, not just short-term sales.

The Benefits of Going Organic and Creative

Not being able to advertise on Google or Facebook might feel limiting. But it actually opens the door to smarter, long-term strategies that many brands overlook.

By focusing on organic and creative marketing, you set your CBD business apart. Instead of chasing fast clicks, you build real trust and brand value.

Here’s why this approach works better over time:

  • Lower long-term costs: You don’t need to spend money daily on ads. A good blog post or email campaign can bring traffic for months — even years — with no extra cost.
  • Increased trust with customers: People trust brands that educate and engage. When they find useful content on your site, they’re more likely to see you as a credible source.
  • Improved search engine visibility: SEO-optimized pages can appear in Google results and bring in new visitors every day — without needing paid ads.
  • More control over your message: You get to shape your story through blogs, videos, and emails. You’re not limited by ad policies or formats.
  • No risk of account bans or rejections: You avoid the stress of getting blocked or penalized. That means steady progress without disruptions.
  • Stronger brand identity: With consistent messaging, tone, and visuals, your audience starts to recognize and trust your brand over time.

Think of it as planting a tree instead of lighting a match. Paid ads can give you a quick spark, but organic marketing builds a solid foundation for long-term growth. It takes more time, but the results are deeper and more lasting.

That’s why many successful CBD brands have chosen to grow without relying on Google or Facebook ads — and you can too.

Understanding Compliance: The Rules You Must Follow

Before promoting your CBD store, it’s important to follow the rules. The CBD industry is still highly regulated in the U.S., even after the 2018 Farm Bill. This means marketing mistakes can get you in serious trouble.

The FDA does not allow CBD sellers to make medical claims. You can’t say your product “cures anxiety” or “treats pain.” Even if customers tell you it helps them, avoid repeating those claims.

Here are a few compliance tips to follow:

  • Never use words like “cure,” “heal,” or “treat.”
  • Avoid promoting CBD to treat specific health conditions.
  • Always include disclaimers on your product pages.
  • Use third-party lab tests to support product quality.

It’s also smart to check your state laws. Some states have extra rules for CBD sales and marketing. Work with a lawyer or compliance expert if needed.

Getting this right protects your brand. It also helps you build long-term trust with customers.

Create a CBD Website That Builds Trust

Your website is your CBD store’s home. It’s where people learn, browse, and buy. If your site looks outdated or confusing, visitors won’t stay long.

A clean, professional WooCommerce site helps you stand out. It also gives customers confidence to shop with you.

Here are the basic features your CBD website should have:

  • Fast loading speed (under 3 seconds)
  • Mobile-friendly design
  • Secure HTTPS encryption
  • Clear navigation menu
  • Product filtering options
  • Trust signals (like reviews and certifications)
  • Easy-to-find return, shipping, and privacy policies

A well-designed homepage sets the tone. Use high-quality images. Add short, clear product descriptions. Include a visible call-to-action (like “Shop Now” or “Browse Collection”).

Make sure your “About” page tells your story. People love to buy from brands they relate to. Share your mission, values, or why you started your CBD business.

Set Up Your Store with WooCommerce for Flexibility

WooCommerce is a great choice for selling CBD online. It gives you full control over your store, payments, and layout.

Because CBD is considered a “high-risk” product, some platforms (like Shopify or Squarespace) can shut you down suddenly. With WooCommerce, you’re not at the mercy of someone else’s rules.

Here’s how to set up WooCommerce for a CBD store:

  • Use a quality hosting provider with strong uptime
  • Install a trusted WooCommerce theme (clean and responsive)
  • Add essential plugins (SEO, email capture, security)
  • Use CBD-friendly payment processors like Square, Viva Wallet, or Easy Pay Direct

Always test your checkout process to ensure smooth buying. Avoid extra steps that may confuse users or slow down conversions.

Basic SEO: Start with a Strong Foundation

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is one of the most effective ways to grow your CBD store. Since you can’t rely on paid ads, SEO becomes even more important. It helps your website appear in search engine results when people look for CBD products or information.

A strong SEO foundation starts with on-page SEO. This means optimizing the pages on your website so that Google understands what your content is about. It also helps users find the information they’re searching for.

Here are the most important on-page SEO elements to focus on:

  • Page Titles: Each page on your website should have a unique title. Include your target keyword naturally in the title. For example, “CBD Oil for Beginners – 500mg Full-Spectrum” is a clear and keyword-friendly title.
  • Meta Descriptions: Write short, clear descriptions for each page. These appear in search results and help people decide to click. Keep them under 160 characters and use action words like “shop,” “learn,” or “discover.”
  • URL Structure: Make sure your web addresses (URLs) are short and meaningful. Avoid random numbers or symbols. Instead, use words that reflect the content, like:
    /cbd-gummies or /about-cbd-benefits.
  • Headings (H1, H2, H3): Use headings to structure your content. Your main headline should be wrapped in an H1 tag. Subheadings should use H2 or H3 tags. Include keywords where it makes sense, but keep them natural.
  • Keyword Placement: Place your main keyword in the first 100 words of the page. Also, use it a few more times throughout the content. Avoid keyword stuffing. Write for readers first, then adjust for SEO.
  • Alt Text for Images: Every image should have an alt tag. This describes what’s in the image. For example, use “CBD oil dropper bottle next to hemp leaves.” It helps visually impaired users and improves SEO.
  • Internal Linking: Link to other related pages within your website. This helps users explore more of your content and keeps them on your site longer. For example, link your “CBD Capsules” page to a blog post on “CBD Dosage for Beginners.”

SEO is not just about adding keywords. It’s about creating useful, well-structured pages that answer real questions. Google’s algorithm rewards quality content that solves problems for users.

Also, update your content regularly. Google loves fresh content. You don’t need to rewrite entire pages, but updating your facts, adding FAQs, or including a recent stat can help you stay competitive.

Another tip: write for your audience, not just search engines. Use words your customers actually type into Google. Tools like Ubersuggest, AnswerThePublic, or Google Keyword Planner can help you find these terms.

Lastly, use an SEO plugin if you’re using WordPress. Plugins like Yoast SEO or Rank Math guide you through every step. They help you optimize each page without needing to be an expert.

When you build your website with SEO in mind from day one, you set your CBD store up for steady, long-term growth. You’ll start attracting traffic from people who are actively looking for your products — and that kind of traffic is much more likely to convert.

Product Pages: Make Them Easy to Find and Trust

Your product pages are where visitors decide to buy. They must be informative, SEO-friendly, and trustworthy.

Each page should include:

  • A clear product name with a keyword (e.g., “Full-Spectrum CBD Oil 500mg”)
  • High-quality product photos (multiple angles, lifestyle shots)
  • A short, benefit-focused product description
  • A detailed description with ingredients, directions, and disclaimers
  • Lab test results (COAs) linked or shown on the page
  • Star ratings or customer reviews

Write in a simple, clear voice. Focus on benefits like taste, ease of use, or purity — not medical claims.

Example sentence:

“Our CBD gummies are perfect for daily balance and easy to take.”

This kind of description is helpful, safe, and appealing.

Technical SEO: Make Sure Google Can Read Your Site

Technical SEO is the behind-the-scenes part of search optimization. It doesn’t focus on what your visitors see. Instead, it helps search engines like Google understand, index, and rank your website properly.

Even if your content is great, poor technical SEO can hold you back. If search engines can’t read or access your pages easily, your site won’t rank — no matter how useful your content is.

Here are the core elements of technical SEO every CBD store should focus on:

  1. Fast Loading Speed

Website speed affects both SEO and user experience. Slow pages drive visitors away and hurt rankings. Google has made page speed a ranking factor.

To improve site speed:

  • Use a lightweight WordPress theme
  • Compress images before uploading (try TinyPNG or ShortPixel)
  • Enable browser caching and lazy loading
  • Use a content delivery network (CDN) like Cloudflare
  • Avoid heavy plugins that slow down your site

You can test your site speed using Google PageSpeed Insights or GTmetrix. Aim for a loading time under 3 seconds on both desktop and mobile.

  1. Mobile-Friendly Design

Most users visit websites from mobile devices. Google also uses mobile-first indexing, which means it ranks your site based on the mobile version.

To check your site’s mobile readiness, use Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test.

Make sure your CBD store:

  • Works well on smaller screens
  • Has large, readable text
  • Uses mobile-friendly menus
  • Doesn’t cut off images or content on smartphones

A responsive WooCommerce theme solves most of these issues out of the box

  1. Secure Site (HTTPS)

Security is essential for all eCommerce websites — especially in the CBD space, where trust matters. Google prefers secure websites and gives them a slight ranking boost.

Your website should always use HTTPS, not HTTP. This means you’ve installed an SSL certificate. Most hosting providers offer it for free.

Look for the padlock icon in the browser bar. If it’s missing, your visitors may get a warning that your site is not secure — and they may leave immediately.

  1. Clean Site Architecture

A clear, logical site structure helps both users and search engines. Your navigation should be simple and predictable.

Here’s a good example of a basic CBD store structure:

  • Homepage
  • Category Pages (e.g., CBD Oils, Gummies, Topicals)
  • Product Pages
  • Blog
  • About, Contact, FAQ

Use internal links to connect related pages. For example, link from your CBD Gummies product page to your blog post about “How to Choose the Right CBD Edible.”

Good structure helps Google crawl your site more easily and helps visitors find what they need faster.

  1. XML Sitemap and Robots.txt

A sitemap is a file that lists all your website’s important pages. It tells Google where to find and crawl them. WordPress SEO plugins like Rank Math or Yoast SEO automatically generate an XML sitemap for you.

Make sure your sitemap:

  • Includes only live, important pages
  • Excludes duplicate or low-value content (e.g., tags, author pages)

Also check your robots.txt file. This file controls what search engines are allowed to crawl. A mistake here can block key pages from being indexed.

You can find and test your sitemap and robots.txt file in Google Search Console.

  1. Fix Broken Links and Crawl Errors

Broken links create a bad user experience and hurt SEO. Google may lower your ranking if too many links lead to dead pages.

Check for broken links using tools like:

  • Broken Link Checker (WordPress plugin)
  • Ahrefs Site Audit
  • Screaming Frog SEO Spider

Also monitor crawl errors in Google Search Console. These errors tell you if Google had trouble accessing any of your pages. Fix any 404 (Not Found) or server errors right away.

  1. Use Schema Markup

Schema markup is a special kind of code that helps search engines understand your content better. It can also enhance your listings in search results with extra details like:

  • Star ratings
  • Product price
  • Availability
  • FAQs

For example, if you add review schema to your product pages, your CBD gummies might show a 4.8-star rating directly in the Google search results. This improves click-through rates and visibility.

You don’t need to know how to code. Plugins like Schema Pro or Rank Math make it simple to add schema to your WooCommerce store.

  1. Regularly Audit Your Site

Even after setting up technical SEO, you need to monitor it. Regular audits help you spot problems early and keep your site performing well.

Monthly SEO checks should include:

  • Speed performance
  • Mobile usability
  • Crawlability
  • Broken links
  • Duplicate content
  • Index status

Tools like Google Search Console, Ahrefs, SEMrush, or Sitebulb can help automate this process.

Why Content Marketing Is Vital for CBD Stores

If you can’t run ads, content becomes your most powerful tool. It brings people to your website through search engines, social shares, and backlinks. Great content also builds trust, answers questions, and keeps visitors coming back.

CBD customers usually ask many questions. They want to know about effects, safety, legality, and more. Your content should answer these questions clearly and honestly. This builds authority — and Google loves helpful content.

Content marketing also supports SEO. The more useful pages you create, the more chances you have to rank on Google.

Start with a Blog — Educate and Build Authority

Your blog is a direct way to attract organic traffic. A good blog helps visitors learn, builds trust, and guides them to your products.

Start by writing about topics your audience searches for. These may include:

  • “What does CBD feel like?”
  • “CBD vs THC: What’s the difference?”
  • “Is CBD legal in [state]?”
  • “How to choose the right CBD dosage?”

Use keyword tools like Ubersuggest or Google’s “People also ask” to find blog ideas. Answer real questions in simple language.

Make sure your blog includes:

  • A strong, keyword-rich title
  • Short paragraphs and subheadings (H2, H3)
  • Bullet points or numbered lists when helpful
  • Internal links to related products and other blog posts
  • A clear call-to-action (CTA) at the end

Post consistently. Even one blog per week can build long-term traffic over time.

Use Different Formats: Not Just Text

People learn in different ways. Some like to read, some prefer video, and others like visuals. Use this to your advantage by creating content in multiple formats.

Here are effective types of content for CBD brands:

  • Videos: Short clips explaining how to use your products
  • Infographics: Visual guides showing CBD benefits or types
  • PDF Guides: Downloadable buyer’s guides or product comparisons
  • FAQs: Answer common questions in a simple, direct format

Videos are especially powerful. They increase time spent on your site and help convert visitors. Host them on YouTube and embed them in your blog posts.

Infographics and guides are also great for backlinks. Other sites are more likely to link to visual or data-rich content.

Content Clusters: Build Topic Authority

Content clusters help you rank higher in search results. Instead of writing random blog posts, create a group of articles around one big topic.

Here’s how a content cluster works:

  • Start with one broad topic (called a “pillar page”)
  • Write several related blog posts that link back to it

For example:

  • Pillar Page: “Ultimate Guide to CBD for Beginners”
  • Supporting Blogs:
    • “What to Expect When Taking CBD for the First Time”
    • “How to Read a CBD Lab Report”
    • “Top 5 CBD Myths Debunked”
    • “Full-Spectrum vs Broad-Spectrum CBD Explained”

Each article links to the main guide and to each other. This creates a strong internal link structure. It helps Google see you as an expert on the topic.

Answer Questions That Your Customers Are Searching

Google wants to show answers — not just products. Your blog should target long-tail keywords and direct questions.

Examples of long-tail content:

  • “Can I travel with CBD oil on a plane?”
  • “How long does it take for CBD gummies to work?”
  • “Best time of day to take CBD for sleep?”

Use clear, direct headlines. Put the main answer in the first paragraph. This increases your chances of ranking in Google’s “Featured Snippets” — the short answers shown at the top of search results.

You can also create a full FAQ page on your website. Update it regularly based on customer questions from emails, chats, or reviews.

Content That Converts: Link Products Naturally

Content shouldn’t just educate — it should sell too. The key is to do it naturally. Don’t push your product in every sentence. Instead, guide users to the next step.

Here’s how to do that:

  • Mention your product where it fits into the content
  • Link it using anchor text (like “CBD gummies for beginners”)
  • Add a “Related Products” section below blog posts
  • Use banners or call-to-action buttons inside content

For example, in a blog about “CBD for stress,” mention your calming tincture as a natural next step. Add a CTA like:
“Try our CBD oil designed for daily stress relief.”

When users feel informed and ready, they’re more likely to click and buy.

Promote Your Content After Publishing

Writing content is just the first step. You need to get it in front of people. Promotion is key to getting traffic, shares, and backlinks.

Ways to promote your content:

  • Share it on your social media pages
  • Send it to your email subscribers
  • Submit it to Reddit or Quora (when relevant)
  • Reach out to influencers or websites for backlinks
  • Repost parts on LinkedIn or Medium with a link back

You can also repurpose your content. Turn blog posts into short videos, or create slides for Instagram from long guides. This saves time and reaches a wider audience.

Why Email Marketing Still Works for CBD Brands

Email marketing is one of the most powerful tools for CBD stores. Unlike social media or ads, you own your email list. There are no sudden bans or blocked posts. You control the message, the timing, and the audience.

It’s also very cost-effective. You can reach hundreds or thousands of people at once. And it works. Email converts better than many other marketing channels — especially when you do it right.

Most important of all, email lets you build real relationships. Customers may visit your site once and leave. But if you collect their email, you can bring them back again.

How to Grow a CBD Email List — Legally and Effectively

You can’t buy a list. You must grow it organically. Also, because CBD is a regulated product, you must follow all rules for data privacy and consent.

Start by adding opt-in forms on key pages. These forms ask users to enter their email to receive something valuable.

Popular ways to grow your email list:

  • Offer a discount (e.g., “Get 10% off your first order”)
  • Create a free guide (“CBD for Beginners PDF”)
  • Use a pop-up form after 5–10 seconds on a page
  • Add a signup box in your blog footer

Always make sure users check a box to confirm consent. Add a note that explains how their email will be used.

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What to Send: Email Campaign Ideas for CBD Stores

Once you start building your list, the next step is what to send. Many brands struggle here. They either send too much or not enough. The goal is to send helpful, interesting emails — not just promotions.

Your emails should match the customer’s journey. Some people are new to CBD. Others are ready to buy or reorder. You need to send the right kind of email at the right time.

Here are email campaign types that work well for CBD businesses:

  1. Welcome Series

The first email sets the tone. It’s your chance to introduce your brand.

Include in your welcome email:

  • A thank you message
  • A short version of your brand story
  • A special discount or first-order coupon
  • A clear call-to-action (e.g., “Shop Now”)

Follow up with 2–3 more emails over the next week. These can cover:

  • “How to choose your first CBD product”
  • “What makes our CBD different”
  • “Frequently asked questions about CBD use”

This builds trust from the start.

  1. Educational Emails

Education is key in CBD marketing. Many customers still don’t understand how CBD works. Your emails can explain it in simple terms.

Ideas for educational emails:

  • “CBD vs THC — What’s the difference?”
  • “How to read a CBD lab report”
  • “What’s the best time of day to take CBD?”

Add internal links to related blog posts or products.

  1. Product Spotlights

Use these emails to highlight one product at a time. Focus on benefits, ingredients, and real use cases. Don’t forget to include:

  • High-quality product image
  • Short customer quote or review
  • “Buy Now” or “Learn More” button

You can also compare similar products. Example:
“Full-Spectrum vs Broad-Spectrum — Which CBD Oil Is Right for You?”

  1. Customer Testimonials and Reviews

Social proof builds confidence. Share customer stories in your emails. Make it feel real and relatable. Include the person’s name, location (if allowed), and their photo if possible.

Example:

“I’ve struggled with sleep for years. Your gummies changed that!” – Sarah, Austin, TX

These types of emails help others trust your brand.

  1. Seasonal Campaigns and Promotions

Plan your emails around holidays and seasons. These drive urgency and excitement.

Ideas include:

  • “CBD for Holiday Stress — 15% Off This Week”
  • “Spring Wellness Sale — Buy One, Get One 50% Off”
  • “Back-to-School Calm Pack — Limited Time Only”

Use countdown timers or “offer ends” dates to drive action.

  1. Re-Engagement Emails

Some people stop opening your emails. Re-engagement campaigns help bring them back.

Example email subject lines:

  • “Still interested in CBD? Here’s 15% off to come back.”
  • “We miss you — see what’s new at [Your Store Name]”

Ask for feedback. Offer a reason to revisit your site. Keep it friendly and simple.

  1. Post-Purchase Follow-Up

After someone buys, don’t go silent. Set up a series that:

  • Thanks them for the order
  • Confirms shipping and tracking
  • Offers tips for how to use their new product
  • Invites them to leave a review or share on social media

This not only improves the experience but also increases repeat sales.

Use simple language. Keep each email focused on one goal. Add one main call-to-action (CTA) like “Shop Now” or “Read More.”

Segmentation: Send the Right Message to the Right People

Not all subscribers are the same. Some are new to CBD. Others are ready to buy again. By dividing your list into groups, you can send better messages.

Examples of email segments:

  • First-time buyers
  • Repeat customers
  • Users who downloaded a guide
  • People who clicked but didn’t buy

This way, you avoid sending the same email to everyone. Instead, you make each message personal and relevant.

Most email tools like Klaviyo, Omnisend, or MailPoet offer easy segmentation features.

Stay Compliant with CBD Email Marketing Rules

As a CBD seller, you must avoid risky claims in emails. Don’t promise that your product will cure, treat, or heal anything.

Safe topics to include:

  • Usage tips
  • Customer experiences
  • Product ingredients
  • Your sourcing or quality process

Also, include your physical address and an unsubscribe link in every email. This keeps you compliant with privacy laws like CAN-SPAM and GDPR.

Why You Need Influencers and Affiliates for CBD Marketing

Without access to Google or Facebook ads, CBD brands must think differently. Influencer and affiliate marketing give you powerful ways to reach new audiences. These two methods rely on trust and relationships, not just ads.

Both strategies help you grow without breaking advertising rules. They also bring traffic that’s more likely to convert. Why? Because people trust people more than ads.

Let’s break down each one in detail.

Start with Influencer Marketing — Reach Real People

Influencers already have loyal followers. They post regularly and talk about health, wellness, fitness, or lifestyle. When they mention your CBD product, it feels more like a recommendation than a promotion.

Influencers don’t need millions of followers. In fact, micro-influencers (with 5,000–50,000 followers) often perform better. They have tighter communities and better engagement.

How to find the right influencers:

  • Look for people already talking about wellness or CBD
  • Check platforms like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and even LinkedIn
  • Use tools like Upfluence, CreatorIQ, or just search hashtags manually
  • Choose influencers with genuine followers, not bots
  • Review their tone and make sure it fits your brand values

Once you find a few options, reach out directly. Be friendly and clear about what you’re offering. Some may ask for payment. Others may work in exchange for free products.

What to Ask Influencers to Do

Keep your campaign simple. Most influencers are busy, and CBD is a sensitive category. Avoid long or complex requests.

Here are good ways to work with influencers:

  • Ask for an unboxing video of your product
  • Request a “day-in-the-life” post using your CBD item
  • Offer an exclusive discount code for their followers
  • Have them write a product review or blog post
  • Share your brand in their Instagram or TikTok story

Let them speak in their voice. Authenticity matters more than perfect scripts. And always remind them to follow FTC guidelines by using “#ad” or “#sponsored.”

Also, check that your CBD product complies with platform rules. Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube all have content policies. Avoid medical claims or bold health promises.

Set Up an Affiliate Program — Pay for Results

An affiliate program turns other websites, creators, or marketers into your promoters. They share your link and earn a commission for every sale they bring.

This is low-risk for you. You only pay when someone buys.

Steps to start an affiliate program:

  1. Choose a platform like Refersion, ShareASale, or a WooCommerce plugin
  2. Set your commission rate (10–25% is typical in CBD)
  3. Create banners, text links, and product photos for affiliates to use
  4. Write clear terms and conditions to stay compliant
  5. Monitor performance through your dashboard

You can invite:

  • Bloggers in the health or CBD niche
  • Review websites
  • Social media influencers
  • YouTube reviewers
  • Email newsletter owners

Affiliates become long-term partners. Treat them well. Provide updates, special discounts, and early access to new products. This builds loyalty and keeps them promoting you.

Use CBD-Friendly Paid Ad Platforms

While Google and Facebook restrict CBD ads, some platforms do allow them. These aren’t as popular, but they can still bring targeted traffic.

Here are a few paid ad networks that allow CBD:

  • Mantis – Focuses on cannabis and wellness publishers
  • TrafficRoots – Built for CBD, hemp, and cannabis brands
  • Outbrain / Taboola – Native ad platforms that promote blog content
  • FieldTest – A managed service with audience targeting tools

Instead of direct product ads, promote blog posts, educational guides, or brand stories. This creates interest and builds trust before asking for a sale.

Before launching, make sure your landing pages are compliant:

  • No health claims
  • No false promises
  • Include lab tests, disclaimers, and product details

These platforms often approve educational or brand-focused content faster than direct sales pages.

Tips to Stay Compliant with Influencers and Ads

Compliance is still important — even when working with people or platforms that allow CBD.

Follow these tips to stay safe:

  • Don’t let influencers make medical claims
  • Avoid promoting CBD as a cure for anything
  • Use disclaimers in sponsored posts
  • Add terms and disclaimers on your landing pages
  • Keep records of agreements and promotions

Clear communication is key. Let partners know what they can and can’t say. This protects your business and keeps your reputation strong.

Why Local and Community-Based Marketing Still Matters

Even if your CBD store operates online, local visibility matters. Many people still search for “CBD near me” or want to support nearby businesses. If your store or warehouse has a physical presence, local SEO can drive valuable traffic.

Beyond that, engaging with online communities and forming partnerships builds brand awareness. These strategies take effort but lead to strong, lasting results. They also cost very little — perfect for CBD brands working without ads.

Let’s explore how you can grow using local SEO, community outreach, and smart partnerships.

Boost Visibility with Local SEO Tactics

Local SEO helps your store appear in searches tied to locations. Even without a retail shop, you can target users in cities or states where CBD is legal.

Start with these local SEO basics:

  • Add a location page on your website (e.g., “CBD Products in Texas”)
  • Use local keywords: “CBD gummies in Miami” or “Best CBD oil Houston”
  • Mention cities, regions, or states in your blog posts
  • Add your business to CBD directories and mapping tools

If you have a storefront or office, go further:

  • List your business on Bing Places, Apple Maps, and Yelp
  • Collect reviews from local customers
  • Add store hours, photos, and contact info
  • Use consistent Name, Address, and Phone (NAP) details everywhere

Even if Google Business Profile restricts CBD in some areas, you can still gain local traffic through other channels.

Optimize Content for “Near Me” and Geo-Based Searches

People often search with location-based phrases. Phrases like “CBD shop near me” or “CBD for anxiety Dallas” are common.

You can capture this traffic by:

  • Writing location-specific blog posts
  • Creating local landing pages for your top cities or regions
  • Using keywords that combine product types + city (e.g., “CBD sleep oil Los Angeles”)

Example blog post ideas:

  • “Where to Buy Legal CBD in Florida (2025 Update)”
  • “Top 5 CBD Stores in Denver and Online Alternatives”

Use internal links to connect these pages back to your products and main content.

Engage in Online Forums and Niche Communities

CBD customers often look for advice in forums and groups. These platforms offer a chance to join the conversation and build trust.

Popular platforms include:

  • Reddit (e.g., r/CBD, r/trees, r/eldertrees)
  • Quora (CBD, wellness, or supplement topics)
  • Facebook Groups (CBD users, natural healing)
  • Discord communities focused on wellness or cannabis culture

Join as a helpful participant — not a salesperson. Answer questions, offer insights, and only share links when truly helpful.

What you can do:

  • Share personal stories or customer experiences (without making claims)
  • Link to blog posts when someone asks a related question
  • Ask questions to engage others and learn what your audience cares about

Avoid spammy or pushy tactics. Community trust is earned slowly, and your tone should always be respectful and informative.

Partner with Local or Complementary Brands

CBD brands don’t have to go it alone. Partnerships open new audiences and help both brands grow. The right co-marketing effort can double your reach overnight.

Here are a few smart ways to partner:

  • Bundle products with another wellness or health brand
  • Run joint giveaways (e.g., CBD + herbal teas or yoga gear)
  • Offer cross-promotions in email newsletters
  • Write guest blogs on each other’s websites
  • Host a local wellness event or workshop

Ideal partnership brands include:

  • Organic tea companies
  • Natural skincare brands
  • Meditation and wellness coaches
  • Pet care brands (if you sell pet CBD)
  • Fitness instructors or yoga studios

These collaborations allow you to reach a highly aligned audience — people who are already health-focused and open to trying CBD.

Get Involved in Local Events and Sponsorships

If your brand is based in a town or city, consider sponsoring events or workshops. Look for local:

  • Farmer’s markets
  • Wellness fairs
  • Yoga retreats
  • Health expos
  • Community newsletters

Set up a booth or provide samples (where legal). Use these events to educate, collect emails, and build local recognition.

You can also run virtual events like webinars, interviews, or live Q&A sessions. These help you build your email list and create shareable content for your blog and social media.

Make Your Brand a Trusted Voice in the CBD Space

No matter where you market, the goal is the same: trust. Whether you show up in a local search or offer advice in a forum, people want honest, reliable information.

You don’t need a big budget to build authority. You just need:

  • Consistent helpful content
  • Clear, honest communication
  • A brand that puts people before profits

Local SEO, niche forums, and smart partnerships help you stand out. These strategies take more time than ads, but they create real community — and that’s what keeps customers coming back.

Why Customer Reviews Matter More Than Ever

Reviews are powerful. Before buying, most people want proof that a product works. In fact, over 90% of buyers read reviews before making a decision.

For CBD brands, reviews build trust. They reduce doubt and show that others have had positive results. Since you can’t run ads easily, social proof becomes your best sales tool.

But many CBD stores forget to ask for reviews. Don’t make that mistake. You need to collect, display, and use reviews to grow.

Here’s how to do it effectively.

Ask for Reviews the Right Way

Most customers won’t leave a review unless you ask. The best time to ask is a few days after delivery. They’ve had time to try the product and are ready to share.

Ways to ask for reviews:

  • Send an automated email with a review link
  • Include a small “thank you” card in the package with a QR code
  • Offer a small reward (like a discount on their next order)

Use review platforms or WooCommerce plugins like:

  • Yotpo
  • Judge.me
  • Stamped.io
  • Loox

These tools make it easy to collect, display, and manage reviews across your store.

Display Reviews to Increase Conversions

Don’t hide your reviews at the bottom of the page. Make them easy to see.

Places to showcase reviews:

  • On product pages, near the “Add to Cart” button
  • On your homepage as a featured testimonial section
  • In email newsletters or promotional emails
  • Inside your blog content (especially for related products)

Also use star ratings and photo reviews where possible. Seeing real customers with your product builds instant credibility.

Encourage User-Generated Content (UGC)

User-generated content goes beyond text reviews. It includes photos, videos, and social posts created by your customers.

Encourage buyers to:

  • Share their experience on Instagram or TikTok
  • Tag your brand in their stories or posts
  • Leave video reviews or unboxings

You can then repost this content (with permission) on your social media or product pages.

UGC is powerful because:

  • It looks natural and authentic
  • It gives future buyers a real-world view of your product
  • It builds a loyal customer community

Consider creating a branded hashtag to make sharing easier and trackable.

Track What Works: Use Analytics and Reporting Tools

Marketing without tracking is like flying blind. To grow your CBD store, you must know what’s working and what’s not.

Start by using Google Analytics and Google Search Console. These tools show:

  • Where your traffic is coming from
  • Which pages get the most views
  • What keywords are bringing visitors
  • Which blogs or product pages convert best

Also track:

  • Email open and click rates (from Klaviyo, Mailchimp, etc.)
  • Influencer and affiliate performance (from Refersion or your plugin)
  • Content engagement (like time on page, bounce rate)

Set up goals and events inside your analytics tool to track sales, form signups, or button clicks. This helps you tie marketing activity to real results.

Keep Testing and Improving Your Strategy

Your CBD marketing strategy should never be static. As you grow, your audience, tools, and trends will change. Always be open to testing new ideas.

Things you can test:

  • New blog topics based on keyword trends
  • Updated email subject lines or content
  • A/B testing product page layouts
  • New product bundles or offers

Look at the data, listen to your customers, and adjust accordingly. Even small changes can lead to big improvements.

Conclusion

Navigating CBD marketing without access to mainstream ad platforms is challenging, but this guide delivers genuine, actionable insight. It doesn’t rely on fluff or recycled tips. Each section digs into practical strategies that real CBD businesses can apply, whether you’re just launching or scaling up. The language is simple, the structure is clean, and it respects the reader’s time and intelligence. What stands out most is the focus on sustainability — not just quick hacks, but long-term growth built on trust, content, and compliance. It’s rare to find content that balances SEO goals with genuine reader value, but this one nails it. Every part feels carefully considered and purpose-driven, which reflects well on the WooHelpDesk brand behind it.

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