Landlords and Bad Locations Will Kill Your Smoke Shop

Chad Wade
Landlords and Bad Locations Will Kill Your Smoke Shop
Here’s the truth:
Most failed smoke shops don’t close because of product. They close because they picked the wrong location or signed the wrong lease.
Read that again.
You can have the best prices, cleanest glass, and top brands — but if your landlord doesn’t want you there, or no one can find your store, it’s over before it begins.
Let’s talk strategy before you make the mistake.
 Step 1: Location Is Everything
Don’t pick a spot just because the rent is cheap or it’s “close to home.”
If people can’t see your store, park easily, or know you exist — you won’t survive.
What you actually need:
  • Heavy foot or car traffic (gas stations, liquor stores, strip malls)
  • Easy in-and-out parking
  • Visibility from the road
  • A plaza with other businesses that already pull your type of customer
If you have to explain how to get there, it’s the wrong spot.
 Step 2: Bad Landlords Are Business Killers
Not all landlords want smoke shops. Some will smile in your face and screw you over in the lease.
Red flags:
  • Lease says “no tobacco, CBD, hemp, glass, or paraphernalia”
  • They won’t confirm zoning is allowed
  • No mention of renewal terms or right to stay long-term
  • Vague “moral clauses” — they can cancel you anytime
What to do:
  • Get written permission to sell everything you plan to sell
  • Have an attorney review the lease
  • Talk to other tenants. If the landlord’s a nightmare, they’ll tell you
  • Call the city and confirm zoning yourself
Don’t take their word for it. Most people only find out after it’s too late.
 Step 3: Do Real Research Before You Sign Anything
Look at the numbers — not your feelings.
Ask:
  • How many cars pass by daily?
  • What’s the demographic in the area? (College kids? Retirees?)
  • Are other smoke shops doing well nearby — or are they all closed?
  • Is delivery possible from this location?
  • Is the rent sustainable during a slow month?
Don’t fall in love with the “vibe.” Fall in love with numbers that make money.
 Top Mistakes That Put Shops Out of Business
  • Opening in malls with “no tobacco” clauses
  • Signing leases in cities that ban delta-8 or hemp products
  • Assuming “vape shop” means “glass is allowed” (it often isn’t)
  • Spending $20K on the inside before zoning is approved
  • Thinking the landlord is your friend — they’re not
 Final Advice: Stop Rushing. Start Thinking.
The wrong location will cost you everything.
A bad lease will trap you for years and leave you broke.
So before you sign:
  • Walk the area
  • Confirm zoning yourself
  • Get the lease reviewed
  • Talk to neighbors
  • Make sure you’re allowed to sell what you plan to sell — in writing
And if the landlord gives you any weird feelings, walk away.
Better to wait 30 days for the right spot than lose 3 years to the wrong one.
Need help before you sign?
Submit your location or lease for review at ChadWadeTV.com — I’ll tell you straight if it’s worth your time.