Cannabis Data Firm Launches Consumer MR Division

Colorado-based cannabis industry data and insight provider BDS Analytics has launched a consumer research division, dedicated to conducting studies to help better understand the range of people who buy and consume marijuana.

BDS was launched last year by former McKinsey consultant Roy Bingham, and Liz Stahura, formerly of NPD Group-owned retail tracking and research business Leisure Trends. The new division is led by industry veteran Linda Gilbert (pictured), who previously set up green and sustainability consumer trends specialist EcoFocus, and health and wellness trends insights company HealthFocus, working with clients across the natural foods, supplements, pharmaceuticals and beverages sectors.

Under Gilbert's guidance, the division will aim to provide brands, entrepreneurs, investors, dispensaries, growers and media with insights into cannabis consumer profiles and trends. The team is currently working with focus groups in Denver detailing everything from dispensary experiences to the reasons for consuming cannabis, including pain relief, sleep, sex enhancement, relaxation and exhilaration. This will be followed by the launch of a quant trend study in Colorado, Washington, Oregon and California, interviewing thousands of people; and the work will continue, with updates every six months.

Commenting on the launch, Bingham said: 'Extremely valuable information about cannabis consumers has never been revealed and explored, which has put industry stakeholders at a disadvantage. We decided to invest in serious consumer research on behalf of the industry. It is time for the many people and companies involved in this flourishing industry to get to know their customers'.

Web site: www.bdsanalytics.com .