A.J. Fernandez Cigars announced yesterday that Enrique “Ricky” Somoza will now oversee operations in the USA. Somoza, born and raised in Miami, had worked as production manager for A.J. Fernandez in their Nicaragua factory since 2013 after meeting A.J. on a trip to Nicaragua.
Nick van Olden is New VP of Tobacco Procurement at Drew Estate
Swisher International has hired Nick van Olden as vice president of corporate tobacco procurement. In this newly established role, van Olden will coordinate tobacco procurement for Drew Estate’s premium cigar line.
Oettinger Davidoff AG acquires majority interest in Asia Distributor Bluebell
Following the acquisition of a 25% interest in its Asia Distributor Bluebell Cigars (Asia) Ltd a year ago, Oettinger Davidoff AG, headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, announced today the acquisition of a majority interest effective January 1, 2016.
Macanudo Announced Logo Redesign for the US Market
General Cigar announced that the company modernized the design of its iconic Macanudo logo for the U.S. market. Beginning on January 15, 2016, Macanudo Café, Macanudo Maduro, Macanudo Crü Royale and Macanudo 1968 and will feature the brand’s new look.
Miami Cigar & Co. Adds Nate McIntyre to their US Sales Team
Miami Cigar & Company, producer of the Nestor Miranda Brand and importer of La Aurora cigars to the US, announced the addition of Nate McIntyre to their sales team yesterday.
La Aurora Wins Two Awards by Dominican Cigar Review
The Dominican publication Dominican Cigar Review awarded cigar manufacturer La Aurora awards in two categories. La Aurora accepted the award for “Best Factory Tour” and La Aurora’s Master Blender, Manuel Inoa accepted the “Cigar Personality of the Year” award.
Premium Colombian rum, gin, and coffee now complemented by cigars
Dictador Rum, produced in Colombia since 1913, has recently added a premium cigar line to complement their rum, gin and coffee. Concept direction is led by Jason Nelson, with Abe Flores producing the cigars in the Dominican Republic.
S.T. Dupont and Davidoff to Merge Distribution in the United States
S.T.Dupont and Davidoff of Geneva USA announced that they will enter into an exclusive distribution agreement in the US as of January 1st, 2016. Lotus International will remain S.T. Duponts after-sales-service center for the US.
Kris Kachaturian to Retire from A.J. Fernandez Cigars
A.J. Fernandez Cigars announces that managing partner, Kris Kachaturian will soon retire and shift into an advisory role for the brand. Kachaturian will continue in day to day operations for the time being, to ensure a smooth transition.
Hans-Kristian Hoejsgaard and the Rebirth of Davidoff
In the recent past, no other cigar manufacturer has garnered as much attention as Oettinger Davidoff AG. Since Hans-Kristian Hoejsgaard took the helm in 2011, Davidoff seems to have experienced a renaissance.
STG Sets New Management for its Handmade Cigar Business
Scandinavian Tobacco Group announced today that Regis Broersma becomes the new President of General Cigar Company, succeeding Dan Carr who has stepped down and leaves the Group.
Quality Importers Acquires Palió Cigar Accessories
Quality Importers Trading Company, a procurement company best known for its humidor and cigar accessory distribution, has acquired Palió. The company plans to increase product inventory and to introduce new customization options for Palió products.


