Are You a Potency Pete or a Sommelier Simon? The Four Cannabis Customer Archetypes

After years behind the bud counter in Vancouver, I've seen it all: the wide-eyed first-timers, the THC chasers, and the legacy smokers who’d rather be in their buddy’s basement than in a sleek retail store. Each type of customer brings their own quirks, preferences, and—let’s be honest—challenges.

What I quickly realized is that, while every customer is unique, most fall into one of four archetypes. Recognizing these types can transform your customer interactions from "quick transaction" to "satisfying sale." So, let me introduce you to these familiar faces and how to successfully serve them up a winning cannabis experience.

Newbie Nancy – The Curious First-Timer

Nancy’s never touched a joint in her life, but she’s heard good things—mostly about CBD, usually from friends. You can spot her from the doorway, wide-eyed and nervous, often saying things like, “My friends told me CBD helps with sleep. Is that true?” Or, “I’ve never smoked, but I think I want to try it…to relax.”

How to win over Nancy:

Nancy’s a sponge for knowledge, and you’re her guide. Patience is key here—don’t overwhelm her. Walk her through the basics: explain that CBD is great, but a touch of THC can be helpful too. If she’s venturing into THC territory, the golden rule is simple: start low, go slow. Recommend a 2.5 mg THC dose for edibles or just a few gentle puffs for smokables.

If you play your cards right, Nancy could turn into your most loyal customer. She’ll remember how you made her feel comfortable, and she’ll keep coming back for more personalized advice.

ArcheTips:

• Listen. Nancy needs reassurance.
• Educate, but don’t overwhelm. Keep it simple.
• Recommend beginner-friendly products. Think low-dose THC or balanced 1:1 THC-CBD ratios.

Potency Pete – The THC Enthusiast

Pete is the guy who makes a beeline for your highest THC products and barely glances at anything below 20%. He’s a daily smoker, chasing that potent punch, and frankly, he doesn’t care about terpenes or freshness. His mantra? “Give me whatever’s the strongest—and cheapest.”

How to guide Pete:

Don’t waste time educating Pete on the latest craft batch or that beautifully balanced 2:1 strain. He’s not interested. What Pete needs is a quick fix: show him the THC percentages, point to the price tags, and let him decide. Keep it simple, and he’ll be back every week, wallet in hand.

ArcheTips:

• Listen, then deliver. Give Pete what he’s after—high THC, low prices.
• Don’t lecture. Save your education efforts for someone who cares (more on them later).
• Keep it budget-friendly. Pete is always looking for the best deal.

Black Market Bruno – The Skeptical OG

Bruno’s been around the block—and back—long before legal dispensaries were even a thing. He’s skeptical of anything grown outside a basement and probably thinks government weed is overpriced and overrated. His first words to you? Something like, “I was smoking weed before you were born” or “My buddy’s dry, so I’m stuck here.”

How to handle Bruno:

Winning Bruno over is like walking a tightrope. Don’t start with your premium options; that’ll have him bolting for the door. Instead, ask him what he’s willing to spend, and offer something decent within that range. Show that you understand his nostalgia for the old days, but gently introduce him to what’s fresh on the legal market.

If you can acknowledge his concerns and find him a good deal, Bruno just might become a regular—at least until his buddy’s grow is back in stock.

ArcheTips:

• Let him vent. He’s got opinions—let him share them.
• Stay cool. Don’t push; meet him where he’s at.
• Suggest decent quality at a reasonable price. No need to go top-shelf here.

Sommelier Simon – The Cannabis Connoisseur

Simon is your cannabis geek. He knows his stuff and loves to share his knowledge (whether you asked or not). Simon isn’t chasing THC percentages like Pete; he’s here for the experience—the aroma, the taste, the smooth smoke. You’ll hear questions like, “What’s your freshest batch?” or “Does this one burn white?”

How to serve Simon:

Simon appreciates quality over quantity. You’ll need to be on your game with him, so make sure you’re familiar with your freshest stock, the best growers, and the tastiest strains. If you’ve tried something great recently, share your experience! Simon will respect your expertise and likely ask for more next time.

And if you’re ever in doubt? Don’t hesitate to say you’ll check in the back or ask a colleague for their opinion—Simon appreciates a thorough, thoughtful recommendation.

ArcheTips:

• Show your expertise. Simon wants to geek out—indulge him.
• Talk quality, not just THC. He’s here for the full sensory experience.
• Be patient and thorough. Simon’s the type who’ll pay extra for that perfect bud.

Bonus Tip: Want to truly impress Simon? Use the Sensemillier Grading Platform to offer precise, reliable cannabis data. Simon will love that extra level of detail.

The Bottom Line: Customer Archetypes Aren’t Set in Stone

While these archetypes can help guide your customer interactions, people aren’t static. With time and the right approach, you might turn a Potency Pete into a Sommelier Simon—or at least give Newbie Nancy the confidence to explore more options.

Remember, most customers aren’t coming in for a full education on terpenes and cannabinoids. They want to feel understood, not lectured to.

Your job? To meet them where they are, sprinkle in a little knowledge, and ensure they leave satisfied with their purchase. With each interaction, you plant small seeds of curiosity. Over time, those seeds will grow into more informed, engaged customers.

So whether you’re dealing with a Bruno, a Nancy, or even a Simon, always approach with empathy and expertise. And don’t forget—your knowledge is a powerful tool. Used right, it’ll keep your customers coming back for more.