When designing a dispensary, much attention is often given to the front-of-house areas—establishing the brand and setting the stage for the customer journey. However, the back-of-house is equally, if not more, critical for the overall success of the dispensary. A well-designed back-of-house ensures daily operations run smoothly and supports front-of-house activities while meeting industry regulations.
Effective Workflow and Operations
The functional flow in the back-of-house can significantly impact a dispensary’s efficiency. Planning a purposeful layout helps streamline inventory management, order fulfillment, and employee movement, minimizing bottlenecks and reducing the time required to complete daily tasks.
For example, orders can be executed more accurately and quickly by creating designated areas for different tasks, such as a well-organized order fulfillment space for pre-order staging and storage or a dedicated drive-thru or curbside pickup space. Ventilation and climate control are also crucial for health and safety, as well as maintaining product quality. Designing a larger vault to accommodate future growth can prevent potential operational disruptions.
We design logical workflows that simplify these processes for efficient operations, maximizing employee productivity and enhancing the overall customer experience.
Reducing Daily Operational Burdens
Another practical consideration is reducing the staff’s daily burdens. For example, we have developed a concept in our vault design that minimizes the frequency of product movement in and out of the vault. This approach eases staff routines and lowers the risk of errors and security breaches while streamlining opening and closing procedures.
Employee Spaces
A well-planned back-of-house also considers the needs and comfort of the staff. Employees need areas where they can perform their tasks efficiently, take breaks, and store their personal belongings. Ergonomically designed workstations and storage, comfortable break areas, and adequate lighting and ventilation contribute to a positive work environment and promote safety.
Cleanliness and Maintenance
Maintaining a sanitary back-of-house is essential for both regulatory compliance and product quality. Designs that prioritize easy-to-clean surfaces and proper waste disposal systems help prevent contamination and ensure product integrity. We select durable materials and finishes that withstand daily use and frequent cleaning.
Compliance and Security
Ensuring compliance with the cannabis code is fundamental to back-of-house design. These regulations can vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another, encompassing everything from security measures to storage requirements.
One key consideration is the line of sight to the back-of-house. For example, when designing the vault, door placement is critical; the public should not be able to see into the vault or the back-of-house. Yet, the front-of-house must be viewable to law enforcement to assess any potential emergency.
Some jurisdictions distinguish between medical and recreational customers, so there must be sufficient space to accommodate both. Also, securing access to the retail floor and streamlining the check-in process is necessary. While limiting the number of customers in this area contributes to safety, creating an inviting waiting space can present a retail opportunity to promote products other than cannabis or brand merchandise. Finally, having a good security consultant to incorporate controlled access, surveillance systems, and other features is recommended.
Thoroughly understanding and adhering to cannabis regulations is not only a legal obligation but also a fundamental aspect of operational efficiency and safety protocols.
Conclusion
The back-of-house is the backbone that supports the entire dispensary operation. From efficient workflow and employee well-being to compliance with state laws, every aspect must be carefully planned and executed. Curry Architects is here to help you navigate the complexities of your dispensary design to achieve smoother operations, improved productivity, better compliance, and long-term success.