For brick and mortar cigar businesses, providing more than just products is the key to standing out in this industry. The cigar industry is full of sophisticated customers who bond over the elegance of the cigar smoking experience. Cigar smokers are a proud to be a part of this niche and see it as one of the best hobbies in the world. So finding ways to get cigar smokers together for unique events is imperative to not only strengthen your current customer base but add new customers that are sure to stick around.

In this article we will explore cigar business essentials like:

• How to create gathering spots in your business
  
• Why hosting events will increase your revenue
• Types of events that will satisfy your business objectives

 

 

Essential Lounge & Storage Upgrades for a Gathering Spot

First and foremost, your business needs space for people to gather, smoke, and hang out. So creating a gathering spot with furniture and cigar humidor storage is essential to make this happen. Turning your retail shop into a social space requires a combination of practical storage, premium seating, and ambiance. Here’s what you need to get started:

 

Cigar Lockers

A great lounge experience starts with convenient cigar storage. By offering cigar lockers for regular patrons, you provide a VIP experience where guests can keep their favorite cigars fresh and ready for their next visit. 

✔ Attracts Members & Regulars – Offering cigar humidor lockers encourages customers to return and use your space.

✔ Humidity-Controlled Compartments – Keeps personal cigar collections in perfect smoking condition.

✔ Upsells Membership Perks – Some lounges charge monthly fees for exclusive locker access.

Business Tip #1: Choose lockable, Spanish cedar-lined cigar lockers with built-in humidification to maintain freshness and aroma. Bonus if you have engravable name plates for customers to personalize their experience. 

Business Tip #2: You can use cigars lockers to add a cigar of the month club or subscription service which can be included in the cost of renting lockers to your customers. Selling memberships with a cigar locker adds recurring revenue and builds brand loyalty.

 

Humidor End Tables: Functional Storage Meets Lounge Comfort

End table humidors serve a dual purpose—they provide easy access to fresh cigars while acting as stylish furniture in your lounge area.

✔ Convenient Access – Guests can reach for a cigar without leaving their seat.

✔ Classic Cigar Lounge Look – A humidor end table adds a sophisticated touch to your seating area.

✔ Preserves Cigar Quality – Proper humidity ensures cigars stay in peak condition for impromptu smoke sessions.

Business Tip: Position humidor end tables between seating areas so multiple guests can access them.

 

Antique Humidors: Vintage Style with Practical Storage

If you want your cigar lounge area to feel premium, incorporating an antique humidor adds a touch of tradition and class. These statement pieces not only store cigars but also enhance the overall ambiance of your lounge.

✔ Timeless Appeal – An antique humidor can serve as a conversation starter.

✔ Functional Storage – Keeps premium cigars properly aged in a climate-controlled environment.

✔ Unique Decor – A beautifully restored antique humidor blends history with modern luxury.

Business Tip: Consider placing an antique humidor near your checkout counter for premium cigar upsells.

Commercial Humidor Displays: An Emphasis to the Point of Sale 

One of the easiest ways to increase customer average order value (AOV) is by adding point of sale (POS) cigar displays by the checkout counter or register. Studies show a significant increase in revenue and impulse purchases by creating a visually pleasing display within eye sight of where customers check out and make final purchases. 

By adding all of or a combination of these cigar humidor storage options you are covering all your bases to ensure proper cigar storage and creating a seamless lounge experience. 

 

Ashtrays and Accessories

You're operating a cigar lounge right? That means you need ashtrays, cutters, and lighters either available for purchase or complimentary. Why not both! You can easily provide complimentary cigar accessories to enhance your customers smoking experience but why not sell some premium cigar accessories like Xikar Cigar Cutters and Xikar Cigar Lighters?

By allowing your customers to use/test these accessories in your cigar lounge - it's like a free trial before they buy the product. You can easily capitalize on one of the most tried and true methods of sales with your free product testing right in your own lounge. 

 

 

Why Hosting Events Increases Revenue

If you’re looking to boost sales and customer engagement, hosting events is one of the most effective strategies. Research shows that businesses that host events experience a 20-30% increase in sales due to higher foot traffic, brand loyalty, and word-of-mouth marketing. 

✔ Higher Customer Spend – Guests are more likely to purchase cigars, accessories, and drinks during events.

✔ Repeat Business – A welcoming space encourages customers to return regularly.

✔ Community Building – Fostering a social experience strengthens your brand’s reputation.

By integrating a cigar lounge atmosphere within your shop, you create an experience, not just a transaction—and that’s what keeps customers coming back.

Hosting events can be a powerful strategy to enhance your business's revenue, customer retention, and overall brand presence. 

💰 Boosting Revenue

1. Direct Sales Opportunities: Events provide a platform to showcase products or services, leading to immediate sales or commitments. Attendees often make purchases during the event, especially when they can experience the product firsthand.

2. Lead Generation: Collecting contact information during events allows for follow-up marketing efforts, turning attendees into potential long-term customers. 

3. Utilizing Off-Peak Times: For businesses like restaurants, hosting events during typically slow periods can generate additional income and maximize space utilization.

🤝 Enhancing Customer Retention

1. Building Emotional Connections: Events create memorable experiences that foster strong emotional bonds between the customer and the brand, leading to increased loyalty. 

2. Community Engagement: Hosting events helps in building a community around your brand, encouraging repeat business and word-of-mouth referrals.

3. Exclusive Offers: Providing special deals or early access to products during events makes customers feel valued, enhancing their loyalty. 

🌟 Additional Benefits

1. Brand Awareness: Events increase visibility and position your business as an active participant in the community or industry.

2. Customer Feedback: Interacting with attendees provides immediate insights into customer preferences and areas for improvement. 

3. Market Expansion: Hosting events in new locations can introduce your brand to different audiences, aiding in market growth. 

Incorporating events into your business strategy can lead to increased revenue, stronger customer relationships, and greater brand recognition. Whether through product launches, community gatherings, or exclusive experiences, events offer a dynamic way to connect with your audience and drive business growth.

 

How to Host Events at Your Smoke Shop & Increase Engagement

Once your space is outfitted with the right cigar storage and lounge elements, the next step is to host events that drive traffic and boost sales. Here are some idea's of what that could look like for your business.

 

Cigar Tasting & Pairing Events

Hosting a cigar and spirits pairing event (whiskey, rum, or coffee) allows guests to explore new cigars while enjoying curated drink pairings.

✔ Collaborate with Local Businesses – Partner with a local distillery or brewery to bring in a larger crowd.

✔ Charge for Entry or Sell Bundles – Offer a special cigar package to boost revenue.

✔ Educate & Engage – Have a brand ambassador or tobacconist teach attendees about cigar profiles.

 

VIP Locker Member Nights

Reward your cigar locker members with exclusive events like early access to new cigar releases, private tastings, or lounge discounts. You could also consider a cigar of the month club for your VIP guests.

✔ Creates Membership Value – Guests will see their locker rental as an investment.

✔ Encourages Repeat Visits – Members will frequent your shop more often.

✔ Strengthens Customer Loyalty – A VIP community keeps customers engaged long-term.

Cigar Rolling Demonstrations

Bring in a professional cigar roller for a live demonstration. Guests can learn about cigar craftsmanship and purchase freshly rolled cigars.

✔ Draws a Crowd – People love watching cigars made in real-time.

✔ Encourages On-Site Purchases – Guests will want to take home fresh cigars.

✔ Builds an Interactive Experience – Customers engage with your brand on a deeper level.

Sports & TV Viewing Nights

Nothing pairs better with a good cigar than a big game on TV. Set up a dedicated viewing area with comfortable seating and premium cigars for sale.

✔ Drives In-Store Sales – Guests will stock up on cigars to smoke during the game.

✔ Enhances Lounge Atmosphere – A cigar shop with TVs and leather seating feels inviting.

✔ Upsell Drinks & Accessories – Offer whiskey tastings, coffee pairings, or cigar accessory bundles.

Final Thoughts: Build a Cigar Destination, Not Just a Shop

In today’s retail world, experience matters. Outfitting your business with cigar lockers, humidor furniture, and premium lounge seating turns your store into a destination for cigar lovers.

Hosting tasting events, VIP nights, and live rolling demonstrations keeps customers engaged, increases sales, and strengthens brand loyalty.

Are you ready to create the ultimate gathering spot for cigar smokers? Outfit your shop with the best cigar humidor lockers, end table humidors, and antique humidors today—available at Trusted Home Goods!

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