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2026 Industry Trends Every Retailer Should Watch
What's coming in 2026? From new product categories to regulatory shifts — here's what to prepare for.
What's Ahead in 2026
The smoke shop industry moves fast. Here are the trends we're watching heading into 2026.
1. THCA Goes Mainstream
THCA flower is no longer niche. Expect to see it in more mainstream retail channels. Shops that established quality reputations early will benefit most.2. Nano-Emulsion Beverages
THC-infused drinks with fast onset (15 minutes) are growing rapidly. Expect more brands, flavors, and formats entering this space.3. Increased Regulation
Both federal and state regulations are tightening. Compliance will become a competitive advantage — shops that stay ahead of regulations will outlast those that don't.4. Premiumization
Customers are trading up. They're willing to pay more for lab-tested, branded, premium products. This is good news for margins.5. Digital Integration
More shops are building online presences — not just for e-commerce, but for product menus, online ordering, and customer engagement.6. Kratom Standardization
The American Kratom Association's GMP program is gaining traction. Expect quality standards to formalize, which benefits shops carrying certified products.7. Sustainability
Eco-conscious consumers want sustainable packaging and ethically sourced products. Brands that lead here will earn loyalty.How to Prepare
- Build relationships with quality-focused distributors
- Invest in compliance documentation
- Start building your digital presence now
- Train staff on emerging products