Running a successful cigar business is about much more than just having great cigars on the shelves. It’s about creating a memorable experience for your customers, offering premium products, and building a loyal customer base. Whether you’re a cigar lounge, a retail cigar store, or hybrid there are certain characteristics that the best-performing cigar businesses share. In this blog, we’ll dive into these common features and explain how you can incorporate them into your own cigar business.

1. Carry A Wide Variety of Cigars

The best cigar shops offer a broad selection of cigars, catering to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike. This means having a diverse range of cigars that include premium brands, limited-edition releases, and popular everyday smokes. A great cigar shop is a place where customers can always find something new or exciting to try. Offering a variety of cigar types, sizes, and flavor profiles ensures that every customer leaves with exactly what they’re looking for.

Variety isn’t just about quantity—it’s about offering high-quality cigars that appeal to different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a fan of full-bodied Nicaraguan cigars or milder blends, having a curated selection ensures that your shop stands out. 

2. Premium Offers and Exclusive Products

Top cigar businesses know the importance of offering premium products and exclusive items. This could be limited-edition cigars, rare blends, or luxury accessories like cigar lighters, cutters, and humidors. Having exclusive offers makes your shop a destination for customers who are seeking the finest cigars and accessories. Carrying premium and rare cigars is an easy way to get word of mouth marketing when customers tell others where they got their one of a kind stogie. 

Many successful shops also carry high-end cigar humidor storage solutions such as humidor cabinets, electric humidors, and cigar lockers, which make the experience of smoking cigars more enjoyable and enhance the value of the products they sell. For instance, having a selection of premium humidor cabinets for customers to store their cigars at home can add another layer of convenience and luxury to their purchase.

3. Exceptional Customer Service

One of the most critical elements that the best cigar shops have in common is exceptional customer service. Cigar enthusiasts often view their cigars as a personal experience, and they expect the same level of care and attention when they visit a cigar shop. The best shops create an environment where customers feel welcome, appreciated, and comfortable asking for advice.

Providing knowledgeable staff who are passionate about cigars is key to ensuring customers return to your shop. Offering guidance on the best cigars for specific occasions, pairing cigars with drinks, or helping customers choose the right cigar accessories can go a long way in creating a loyal following.

4. Multiple Communication Touchpoints

Top-performing cigar businesses recognize the importance of staying connected with their customers through multiple communication channels. Whether it’s via social media, email newsletters, text alerts, or a well-maintained website, staying in touch with your customers helps keep them engaged with your brand.

Engagement through social media is particularly important for cigar businesses. Sharing cigar reviews, pairing tips, special promotions, and events on platforms like Instagram and Facebook can help build a community around your brand. Offering live chat support on your website or creating a blog with cigar tips and tricks can also add value to your customer’s experience.

5. Rewards Programs

The best cigar shops understand the importance of rewarding customer loyalty. A well-structured rewards program not only incentivizes repeat business but also helps build long-term relationships. By offering points for every purchase, birthday discounts, or exclusive offers for loyal customers, you can create an added value proposition that keeps customers coming back.

For example, customers who purchase a premium cigar humidor could earn points toward future purchases, or those who sign up for your newsletter could receive exclusive access to limited-time cigar offers. The goal is to make your customers feel valued, which will encourage them to keep returning.

6. Referral Programs

Successful cigar businesses know that word-of-mouth marketing is one of the most powerful tools they have. That’s why many of the best shops have referral programs that reward customers for bringing in their friends. Offering discounts, free products, or other rewards for referring new customers can significantly increase your shop’s customer base.

Referral programs also create a sense of community within your shop. When people invite their friends to your business, it signals trust and satisfaction. A strong referral program not only boosts sales but also increases your customer base, which ultimately helps grow your business.

7. Dedicated Cigar Smoking Areas

Having a dedicated smoking area is a huge draw for many cigar enthusiasts. The best cigar shops and lounges provide an environment where customers can sit back, relax, and enjoy their cigars in comfort. These spaces are often equipped with proper ventilation, comfortable seating, and sometimes even a bar offering drinks that pair well with cigars.

In some cases, businesses can take it a step further by offering members-only smoking lounges, where customers can have access to exclusive spaces and private events. This creates a premium experience that keeps customers engaged and willing to return. Dedicated lounge and smoking areas will need to outfit their spaces accordingly with cigar lockers or humidor cabinets for proper cigar storage. 

8. Cigar Events and Tasting Sessions

Another hallmark of a successful cigar business is the hosting of events. From cigar tastings and pairing nights to special events with cigar manufacturers, the best shops create memorable experiences that draw customers in. Events give your customers the chance to try new cigars, meet other enthusiasts, and deepen their connection with your brand.

Hosting these events regularly, whether in-store or online, can also be an opportunity to showcase your premium products like humidor furniture or limited edition cigars.

Conclusion

If you’re running a cigar business and looking to boost performance, incorporating these key elements is a great way to set your business apart. From offering a wide variety of cigars and premium products to providing exceptional customer service and rewards programs, the best cigar shops create a community-focused experience that keeps customers coming back for more.

If you’re looking to enhance your cigar shop or lounge with premium cigar storage solutions, explore our selection of cigar humidor cabinets, electric humidors, and cigar lockers at Trusted Home Goods. With the right products, customer service, and engagement strategies, your cigar business can thrive and create loyal, long-term customers.

Need help building your business? Check out our free e-book: Double Cigar Sales in 30 Days