Boutique Cigar Association of America, LLC

"Never forget your roots"?is such a grounding philosophy, especially when it encompasses family, heritage, language, and culture. Our dedication to the Boutique Cigar Association (BCA) clearly stems from a deep respect for these values and the desire to ensure they endure in the cigar industry. The BCA’s commitment to educating others about cigar culture’s beauty and history, while standing up for smaller family-owned businesses, speaks to the importance of preserving legacy while embracing inclusiveness. Our vision of a united cigar industry, where both small and world-renowned companies stand together to protect their shared heritage and legacy, is truly powerful. It's a reminder that regardless of company size, every individual in the industry is significant, and that legacy is built on mutual support. Passing the torch to future generations requires this kind of solidarity. The call to unity is essential for navigating regulatory challenges, and it serves as a reminder of the impact that can be made when everyone embraces the mindset to “never forget where you came from.” This philosophy could indeed help the cigar industry flourish and grow for generations to come. Armen Caprielian - President Boutique Cigar Association of America

2025 BCA Pavilion Registration ?? Please take time to visit the link and register. https://lnkd.in/drhwXsuE

The Premium Cigar Association Trade Show in 2023 and 2024 marked a significant achievement for the Boutique Cigar Association, Inc. Both years, we successfully united 15-16 companies to showcase their products in a dedicated Boutique Cigar Pavilion. The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive regarding the pavilion’s concept, design, functionality, and execution. The collaboration between the Boards of the Premium Cigar Association and the Boutique Cigar Association has been nothing short of extraordinary over the past two years. Both teams deserve commendation for their hard work and dedication. As we look ahead to the 2025 Premium Cigar Association Trade Show, we are excited to announce the continuation of the Boutique Cigar Pavilion. This initiative was designed to create an inclusive space for smaller, family-owned companies, covering all "build-out" and "expenses." Our vision for the Pavilion is to provide ready-to-use spaces that allow brand owners to focus on what they do best. To participate, companies simply need to: -Pay membership dues to the PCA. -Be a member of the BCA. -Reserve and pay for a booth within the Pavilion. -Send vector images of their company logo to PCA staff for signage. -Notify retailers of their presence at PCA 2025 -Schedule appointments at their booth. -Attend the PCA Trade Show as an exhibitor. -Each booth will receive four exhibitor tickets. -Engage in a positive business experience during the show. -Enjoy their time in New Orleans! The process is straightforward, the costs are reasonable, and the rewards are immeasurable. If you are part of this industry, it’s vital to support our trade organizations—the future of our industry depends on it. To reserve your booth simply call. Lisa Sigler Director of Membership Development & Industry Relations Premium Cigar Association 405-250-8234 202-849-6050 [email protected] #boutiquecigarpavilion #premiumcigarassociation #pca2025

Hands down a man who deserves to be listened to. This podcast was unlike any other we have ever done. It was so impressive that we are turning it into a mini-series. Mario Caraballo of Caraballo Cigars will have a 3 part series. The next podcast will be recorded next week. Get to know the man behind Caraballo Cigars. Download and listen to Part 1. Link below https://lnkd.in/eW_PMzDY

Exciting News, Cigar Aficionados! Over the next 5 days, several member companies of the Boutique Cigar Association (BCA) will be participating in two fantastic Cigar Festivals, both supporting great causes! Join us at the Cigars & Baseball Festival in St. Paul and the Buffalo Cigars Festival in New York! Come out and support your local communities. #DOGOOD This is your chance to meet some of our incredible BCA members, sample their top-tier boutique cigars, and take some home to enjoy later. Don’t miss this opportunity to support local businesses and enjoy a great time with fellow cigar enthusiasts! Mark your calendars, spread the word, and we’ll see you there! #BoutiqueCigarAssociation #CigarCommunity #Cigars #CigarFestival #SupportSmallBusinesses #PremiumCigars #CigarLife

Celebrating True Friendship in the Cigar Industry 25 years ago, this photo was taken at the RTDA Show in New Orleans, the premier cigar trade show in the U.S. Pictured here are two legends: Rolando Reyes Sr., a renowned cigar maker from Cuba operating in Honduras, shaking hands with Gilberto Oliva Sr., a respected tobacco grower in Nicaragua and Honduras. Back then, values like integrity, honor, and dignity were at the forefront. These men kept their word. One story illustrates their bond: When Reyes Sr. landed a massive account with Lew Rothman, founder of JR Cigars, he faced a challenge. With little liquidity in Central American banks, he needed more tobacco than he could afford upfront. Without hesitation, his friend, Oliva Sr., sent him bales of tobacco without charging upfront. "Make your cigars, sell them, and when you get paid, you can pay me back," he said. And that’s exactly what happened. Stories like these are how small boutique cigar makers grew—through friends helping each other. Today, the climate has changed. Such friendships are rare; many seem to be in it for themselves. That’s why I founded the Boutique Cigar Association in 2016: to keep these memories alive and restore the spirit of our industry—one built on collaboration and respect among families. At the BCA, we often hear, "What can you do for me?" But a better question is, "How can I make the BCA better?" When we think this way, we all prosper together. Like Reyes Sr. and Oliva Sr., may these great men rest in peace. Their example inspires us to keep their legacy alive. Let's not forget the values that brought us here. Dr. Gaby Kafie The Kafie Companies www.kafie.com #Friendship #Legacy #CigarIndustry #BoutiqueCigarAssociation #HonoringThePast #BuildingTheFuture

Part 2 The Role of the Tobacconist: Bringing Back the Craft Representing boutique cigar brands requires a shift in mindset from being a mere retailer to becoming a true "tobacconist." This role goes beyond simply selling a product; it involves educating customers about the craftsmanship behind the cigars, the uniqueness of each blend, and the story of the families and artisans who produce them. Retailers who embrace this role often find themselves building deeper relationships with their customers, who in turn become more loyal and more willing to explore new, lesser-known brands. The extra effort to be a tobacconist pays off in spades. As a retailer, by providing superior customer service and sharing your passion for quality cigars, you elevate the experience for your clientele. This not only leads to increased sales but also to higher margins, as customers are often willing to pay a premium for products that offer better value and a more authentic experience. Inflation and the Economic Advantage of Boutique Cigars Given the significant rise in inflation and cost of goods over recent years, it’s vital for brick-and-mortar retailers to consider their inventory strategies carefully. Boutique cigars present a compelling case. They offer better margins, and their uniqueness means there is less direct competition. While mass-market brands might seem like the safer bet, they often come with lower margins and an inherent risk of commoditization. As inflation affects the buying power of customers, those who understand the value of high-quality, boutique cigars are likely to appreciate the craft and be willing to invest in a better product. There is tremendous Quality in the business of Boutique Cigars. For brick-and-mortar retailers, the choice is clear. While mass-market brands offer convenience and ease of sale, they do not provide the differentiation or the profitability that boutique cigars can. By focusing on boutique brands, retailers can reclaim their unique identity, offer better products to their customers, and ultimately create a more sustainable business model that isn't reliant on the heavy marketing and profit-sharing demands of mass-market giants. The value of boutique cigars lies not just in the product itself but in the experience it offers. For retailers who understand and embrace this, there is a significant opportunity to thrive in a market that increasingly values authenticity, quality, and craft. By reviving the art of the tobacconist and representing boutique brands with pride and knowledge, brick-and-mortar retailers can secure a profitable future built on quality, not quantity.

Part 1 Reviving the Art of Representing Boutique Cigar Brands in Brick-and-Mortar Retail In the world of premium cigars, there is a growing divide between mass-market giants and the artisanal, family-owned boutique brands that represent the heart and soul of the industry. Brick-and-mortar retailers, once the guardians of cigar culture and craftsmanship, have in many cases shifted their focus toward the larger, well-known brands with massive advertising budgets and built-in promotional strategies. This shift has often come at the expense of quality, individuality, and the unique customer experience that boutique brands offer. It's time to revisit how boutique cigars should be represented, celebrated, and sold, especially in the context of today's economic climate. The Mass Market Dominance: The Franchise Effect Mass-market cigar brands have undeniably dominated the retail landscape for years. With their large-scale operations, these brands have the advantage of national advertising campaigns and promotional structures that are often built directly into their pricing. They flood the market with easily recognizable names, making it convenient for retailers to sell them without much effort. However, this convenience comes with a hidden cost: by aligning too closely with these major players, many retailers risk turning their shops into de facto "franchises" for these brands. The result is a significant portion of the retailer’s profits being funneled back to the big corporations, leaving little room for financial growth or differentiation. The Untapped Potential of Boutique Brands In contrast, boutique cigar brands offer something that mass-market products cannot: uniqueness, exclusivity, and a deep connection to craftsmanship. Often crafted with rare, high-quality tobaccos and carefully curated blends, boutique cigars provide consumers with a truly exceptional smoking experience. These brands are not about mass production; they are about the art of cigar making, where every detail, from seed to smoke, is meticulously considered. For brick-and-mortar retailers, boutique brands represent a tremendous opportunity. Not only do they offer higher margins compared to mass-market cigars, but they also bring a story, a personality, and a level of quality that discerning customers seek out. In a world where inflation has risen sharply over the past five years—by as much as 40-50% across the board—focusing on products with better margins and perceived value is more important than ever. Boutique cigars, with their superior quality and more favorable pricing structures, are a smart business move.

We're proud to have such wonderful people as members of the BCA.

A Labor Day Message from Dr. Gaby Kafie, Founder of the Boutique Cigar Association On this Labor Day, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the passionate, hardworking individuals who make up our incredible community within the premium cigar industry. As small family-owned boutique manufacturers, we understand that the foundation of our work is built upon the dedication, craftsmanship, and relentless commitment of every person involved. From the growers and rollers to the artisans and advocates, every step of the journey in creating a premium cigar is a labor of love and tradition. It is through your unwavering efforts that we continue to uphold our craft, protect our heritage, and share the fruits of our labor with the world. Today, we honor each of you who contribute to this noble industry and who stand with us in preserving the art of cigar making against all odds. Your hard work is what keeps this industry alive, vibrant, and true to its roots. Thank you for all you do. May this Labor Day bring you a well-deserved moment of rest, reflection, and pride in the incredible work you achieve every day. With profound respect and appreciation, Dr. Gaby Kafie Founder, Boutique Cigar Association