For many people—whether they are first-time cannabis shoppers or long-time enthusiasts—walking into a dispensary can feel overwhelming. The wide range of products, unfamiliar terminology, and pressure to make the right choice often turn what should be an exciting experience into an intimidating one. TRENDS, Queens’ largest cannabis dispensary, is changing that with the launch of Relief IQ, the first AI-powered cannabis wellness guidance platform available inside a U.S. dispensary.

Relief IQ is not just another piece of tech; it’s a tool designed to empower consumers with knowledge and confidence. By blending artificial intelligence with cannabinoid research, TRENDS has created an experience that is both educational and deeply personalized.

How Relief IQ Works

Upon arrival, customers are greeted by knowledgeable budtenders who introduce them to the Relief IQ platform. Shoppers can access the tool on a tablet, kiosk, or even their own mobile device. The process begins with selecting a primary wellness focus area—options may include relaxation, rest, focus, or other commonly desired effects.

Relief IQ then synthesizes publicly available cannabinoid research, cross-referencing those findings with TRENDS’ real-time inventory. Within seconds, shoppers receive product recommendations tailored to their personal goals. Instead of guessing which strain or concentrate might be the best fit, customers leave with options grounded in research and available for immediate purchase.

The approach is fast, intuitive, and deeply reassuring for customers who want more clarity in their shopping experience. Relief IQ does not replace the human connection with budtenders—it enhances it by giving staff a powerful tool to support informed decisions.

Innovation Meets Community

What sets TRENDS apart is its willingness to merge advanced technology with a human-first retail environment. As the first U.S. dispensary to feature Relief IQ, and the only dispensary in New York City to offer the platform, TRENDS is setting a precedent for how cannabis retail can evolve.

But innovation doesn’t stop at technology. The Carter brothers, who lead TRENDS, have built a dispensary that serves as both a retail hub and a cultural destination. In addition to shopping, customers can attend yoga classes, comedy nights, and educational workshops. These events are designed to normalize cannabis, foster inclusivity, and encourage open dialogue about wellness.

Their partnerships, including collaborations with Housing Works Cannabis Co., further emphasize a mission rooted in education and community empowerment.

Leadership and Vision

“As New York’s cannabis industry evolves, we’re committed to leading with innovation,” says Rodney “Hurricane” Carter Jr., CEO of TRENDS. “Relief IQ represents the next step in how customers can explore cannabis, blending technology with personal service so every purchase feels confident and intentional.”

That vision reflects a broader cultural shift: cannabis retail is no longer just about products on shelves. It’s about helping people discover how cannabis can align with their personal goals in a safe, transparent, and empowering way.

Education Over Intimidation

The stigma around cannabis use has lingered for decades, leaving many people hesitant to ask questions or explore new options. Relief IQ helps dismantle that barrier by offering unbiased, research-informed insights. The platform emphasizes education, not sales pressure. By ensuring customers feel empowered rather than overwhelmed, TRENDS is cultivating a more trusting and accessible retail environment.

Importantly, Relief IQ—powered by Gojitech—is intended for educational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. This distinction maintains compliance with New York state regulations while making clear that the platform is a guide, not a substitute for professional healthcare advice.

Looking Ahead

With Relief IQ, TRENDS positions itself at the forefront of cannabis retail innovation in the United States. The combination of advanced technology, cultural engagement, and a customer-first ethos reflects how cannabis retail can thrive when it invests in education and inclusivity.

As the cannabis market in New York City continues to expand, platforms like Relief IQ may soon become industry standards. For now, TRENDS remains the trailblazer, offering a unique in-store experience that redefines what it means to shop for cannabis in 2025.

And since stupidDOPE loves Trends, if you’re in the area, visit Trends and grab some Silly Nice products to complete your experience.

Stay Connected

To learn more about TRENDS, check out their menu at https://trendslic.com and follow them on Instagram for the latest updates on events, products, and innovations.