It takes more to stock a head shop successfully than just filling the shelves. It requires research, strategy, and
foresight. After all, you have to stay ahead of an industry that shifts faster than a stoner’s snack cravings. What
sold out last year might be gathering dust today, and with new cannabinoids, product formats, and consumer habits
constantly emerging, keeping up is a matter of literal survival.
To help retailers make smart inventory moves, we’ve rounded up the hottest hemp products making waves right now, from the ultra-potent THCP edibles to the rapidly expanding world of cannabis beverages.
Edibles
Hemp edibles have evolved far beyond basic brownies—think infused Pop Rocks, gourmet chocolates, and confections that rival anything in a high-end candy shop. This category has exploded, attracting both seasoned consumers and the canna-curious with its wide variety and ease of use. The biggest game-changer? THCP.
According to Eric Recker, the EVP of sales and operations at SERVD Distribution, “Edibles are our fastest moving products at the moment. Delta-9 and THCP edibles, in particular, are increasingly popular. Our Delta-9 gummies and popping crystals are doing extremely well.”
THCP (Tetrahydro cannabiphorol) is a powerhouse cannabinoid with up to 33 times the binding affinity of Delta-9THC, making it a go-to for high-tolerance consumers seeking a stronger, longer lasting effect.
This ultra-potent compound is pushing the edible market into premium territory, where customers are willing to spend more for a predictable, high quality experience. Stocking Delta-9 and THCP-infused products—like gummies, chocolates, and microdosed novelty snacks—can drive both impulse buys and repeat business, making this a must watch category for retailers.
Vape Cartridges and Disposable Vapes
Discreet, convenient, and packed with potency—vape cartridges and disposables continue to dominate the hemp market. Unlike the cannabis flower, vapes offer a smoke free experience, making them a go-to for consumers who want a quick, odorless way to enjoy cannabinoids.
“The biggest movers in this category right now are THCA and THCP vapes,” Eric states. “These cannabinoids cater to both casual users and high tolerance consumers looking for something stronger.” As the market matures, buyers are becoming more discerning, seeking third-party tested products with ceramic coils, solvent-free extraction methods, and organic terpene blends for a cleaner hit. Retailers who emphasize these quality markers can build trust and drive repeat business, particularly with professionals and wellness focused consumers who prioritize purity and safety.
THCA Flower and Pre-rolls
THCA flower is emerging as the go-to alternative for traditional cannabis, offering a legal, high-potency option. When properly heated, THCA converts into THC, delivering the psychoactive effects customers are looking for.
Beyond recreational use, THCA is attracting medical consumers for its potential therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and neuroprotection. With a reputation for coming from high-quality cultivators, it’s perceived as a premium choice, making it one of the best-margin products a shop can carry.
Pro Tip: Stocking THCA prerolls not only boosts impulse purchases but also encourages bundled sales. Pairing them with lighters, grinders, or rolling trays can drive up transaction values.
Beverages
Over the past year, hemp beverages have gone from obscure novelty to legitimate sales powerhouse. With mainstream retailers like grocery and liquor stores stocking THC and CBD drinks, cannabis beverages are reaching an entirely new audience. Eric reiterates, “Beverages have made cannabis mainstream, with large grocery chains and liquor stores now carrying the products.” For head shops, this means opportunity—but only if you’re stocking the right products.
The demand for low-calorie, functional, and craft-style Cannabinoid-infused drinks is soaring, with options ranging from sparkling waters and teas to energy drinks and mocktails. Consumers want controlled, predictable effects, whether it’s a THC buzz, a THCV energy boost, or a CBD unwind after a long day.
For head shop owners, the key to success is curation. While big box retailers may carry mass-market brands, customers still turn to specialty retailers for premium, unique, and craft-infused beverages they can’t find everywhere else. Look for high-quality brands with lab tested formulations, and highlight options that cater to specific effects—like focus, relaxation, or social sipping. Positioning these as an alternative to alcohol can also be a strong sales driver, especially for customers embracing the growing “Cali-sober” movement.
Concentrates
Dabbing has long been a staple in the recreational and medical cannabis spaces, but it’s now permeated the hemp market as well. For headshops, this presents a major opportunity: stock premium hemp cannabinoid concentrates, and you’re sure to build a dedicated customer base that keeps coming back.
From THCA Diamonds and Live Resin to solventless Rosin and high-purity CBD Distillate, concentrates cater to both ends of the spectrum. High-tolerance dabbers chase potency and terpene-rich experiences, while wellness consumers seek clean, non-psychoactive alternatives. Unlike traditional flowers or edibles, concentrates command higher price points and stronger profit margins, with less competition from mainstream retailers—putting more pricing power in your hands.
But dabbing is just one piece of the extracts puzzle. Concentrates offer multiple consumption methods—vaping, edibles, and even topical applications—giving customers a reason to experiment and explore. With the rise in demand for solventless extracts and precision formulated products, head shops that stock high-quality concentrates position themselves at the forefront of the next evolution in hemp retail.
