Why You Shouldn’t Be Cash Only in 2025

For years, cannabis dispensaries have relied on being cash-only. But in 2025, this model is outdated and risky. From security concerns to customer expectations, staying cash-only could be costing your business more than you realize. Here’s why it’s time to upgrade your payment processing strategy.

1. Security Risks

Cash-heavy businesses are prime targets for theft. Keeping large amounts of cash on-site puts your dispensary, employees, and customers at risk. According a recent Wall Street Journal article , businesses are increasingly moving away from cash to reduce crime exposure.

2. Customer Expectations

Consumers in 2025 expect speed and convenience. Whether it’s debit, credit, or contactless payments, they don’t want to rely solely on cash. A recent Forbes article highlights how the rise of contactless payments is transforming consumer behavior and satisfaction.

3. Limited Sales and Growth

Cash-only operations limit your average transaction size. When customers have no card option, they often spend less. Studies show that customers spend significantly more when using card payments instead of cash.

4. Compliance and Transparency

Card-based payments offer clearer audit trails and streamlined record-keeping. That makes it easier to stay compliant with state regulations.

5. Competitive Disadvantage

As more dispensaries adopt secure payment solutions in 2025, staying cash-only could leave your business behind. A Business.com analysis shows that with 84% of U.S. payments being cashless, remaining cash-only means you're missing out on a majority of consumers.

Final thought: Cash-only may have made sense before, but in 2025 it’s a business risk you can’t afford. Upgrade your payment processing with Valor and step into a safer, more profitable future.