Thursday, October 30 2008
Miami, FL - Nestor Miranda, President of
Miami Cigar & Company announced that effective 1 November, his company would distribute Espinosa y Ortega's (
United Tobacco, Inc.) 601 and Cubao brands throughout the United States.
601 cigars, introduced in the summer of 2006 and Cubao cigars, introduced in the summer of 2008, are undoubtedly two of the best selling full bodied Nicaraguan cigar brands. Both are made for Espinosa y Ortega by Jose "Pepin" Garcia.
"We have been broadening our portfolio, concomitant with developing our own, dedicated, Miami Cigar & Company Sales Representatives," said Rene Castaneda, Managing Director & National Sales Manager for Miami Cigar. "The in-house sales operation is one of the major elements that drew Erik [Espinosa] and Eddie [Ortega] to our company."
The conversations took place over a period of two months, ironing out the operating details, which include Espinosa and Ortega doing 601 and Cubao events at stores all over the country.
"They still own the brands, and are the faces of the brands, so their presence and participation is essential. They will continue to be responsible for the advertising and marketing decisions, in concert with Rene and myself," said Miranda.
Espinosa and Ortega have known Nestor and Rene for many, many years and while there were details that needed to be 'negotiated,' the parties were always comfortable with each other and the discussions were totally amicable. Both companies feel the arrangement is the right one, at the right time.
"As far as the tobacconists that now carry the brands, nothing will change. They will be served by Miami Cigar & Company's sales staff, but can just as easily place their orders with Erik and Eddie," Miranda noted.
"We are pleased to be able to participate in moving both brands to the next level," said Mr. Castaneda. £
601 and Cubao are trade marks of United Tobacco Inc.
