Minnesota’s newly legalized cannabis market (adult-use effective 2023) has unique compliance needs, including integration with Metrc (the state-mandated seed-to-sale tracking system)indicaonline.com. Dispensaries in Minnesota must use OCM-approved point-of-sale (POS) software that can report to Metrc and enforce state rules (e.g. purchase limits)covasoftware.comcovasoftware.com. Additionally, modern cannabis retail software often provides embedded website integration for online ordering and supports open APIs for custom integrations, which is crucial for omnichannel sales. Below we compare several leading cannabis retail POS solutions available in Minnesota, focusing on Metrc compatibility (including Metrc Retail ID support), e-commerce/website integration, API availability, key features, pricing, and suitability for single-location vs. multi-location dispensaries.
Comparison of Cannabis Retail POS Platforms
| Platform | Metrc & Compliance | Website Integration & API | Pricing (starting or typical) | Best For (Store Size) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cova POS | Full Metrc integration with automated seed-to-sale reporting. OCM-approved in Minnesota; includes built-in ID scanning and purchase-limit enforcement. | Integrates with e-commerce platforms (Leafly, Weedmaps, I Heart Jane) via open API. ❌ Avoids iframe menus — prefers secure API integrations for better SEO and UX. | $349/mo (Boutique, 2 registers) to $549/mo (Powerhouse, 4+ registers). Enterprise tier custom-priced. | Small to mid dispensaries; scales to multi-location. Reliable for compliance-focused stores. |
| Flowhub | Original Metrc integrator active in all Metrc states. Real-time state reporting and compliance safeguards for every legal market, including MN. Supports Metrc Retail ID QR code scanning. | Native e-commerce module fully synced with POS (Flowhub Ecommerce). ❌ Does not rely on iframe menus; uses direct API sync. Also integrates with third-party menus via open API. | ~ $499/mo per store (quote-based) + $500–$1,000 setup. Social Equity program at $4.20/mo for eligible owners. | Single stores or large chains. Excellent for high-volume retailers needing unified POS + online system. |
| BLAZE | Automated compliance with Metrc (real-time sync) and other state systems. Supports Metrc Retail ID for pre-labeled product intake and QR scanning at checkout. | All-in-one suite with built-in e-commerce and delivery management. ⚠️ Supports iframe menu widgets but recommends full API integration. 60+ integrations via open API. | ~ $500/mo per dispensary (quote-based) for POS; add-ons (e.g., delivery) may increase cost. | Mid-size to multi-location operations wanting one system for POS, e-commerce, and delivery. |
| IndicaOnline | Two-way Metrc syncing for instant compliance reporting. HIPAA-compliant patient records for medical use. Supports Metrc Retail ID QR code labeling and scanning. | Sweede online ordering platform (optional) for integrated web sales. ✅ Supports iframe embeds for quick deployment and also offers open API for custom storefronts. | $299/mo (Basic) and $499/mo (Elite). Annual discounts available. $600–$850/mo for plans including delivery. | Single-store shops and small chains, especially those offering delivery or medical sales. Budget-friendly and scalable. |
| Dutchie POS | Strong Metrc compliance (originated from Greenbits). Automates track-and-trace uploads and keeps current with state rules including MN. | Deep native e-commerce integration with Dutchie Online. ✅ Offers iframe embed option for menu widgets or full API-based site integration. Live inventory and pricing sync. | Quote-based; typically $500–$1,000/mo per location for POS + e-com bundle. Online ordering may incur transaction fees. | Omnichannel retailers of any size seeking seamless in-store and online operations; strong for multi-store management. |
| Treez (SellTreez) | Enterprise-grade POS with comprehensive Metrc reporting. Adapts to state purchase limits and tax rules. Advanced compliance and analytics. | Treez Online e-commerce platform integrated with POS. ❌ No iframe menu option; API-based storefront integration. Open APIs for third-party apps; includes TreezPay. | Custom pricing. Entry ~ $299+/mo; full suite ~ $1,000+/mo. Minimums may apply. | Multi-location and high-volume dispensaries needing robust analytics and enterprise support. |
| Carrot (getcarrot.io) | Relies on integrated POS (Cova, Flowhub, Treez, Dutchie, BioTrack, Alleaves) for Metrc compliance and Retail ID tracking; not a POS itself. | Adds e-commerce website, SEO-optimized menus, loyalty programs, mobile apps, delivery, and marketing automation. ❌ No iframe menus — uses full API integration with the POS for real-time sync. | Custom quotes based on store count, order volume, and POS integration; typically mid-hundreds per month for multi-store. | Dispensaries already using a supported POS that want loyalty, delivery, and mobile apps without switching POS. |
The table below summarizes the key attributes of top POS solutions used in Minnesota dispensaries. All listed platforms are Metrc-compliant and can operate in Minnesota’s regulatory environment. Each offers some form of website integration (built-in e-commerce or syncing with online menus) and provides API access or integration support. Pricing varies by platform and is often tiered by store size or feature set.