Why are certain cigars...

[Briandg]

Originally Posted by BonaMan

Working for a manufacturer we are faced with the same issues. The B & M retailer brings certain value and amenities to the cigar purchase. You don't expect a bar or lounge to sell a beer at supermarket prices or a glass of wine at the price of a discount wine warehouse. It's not so much about keeping the B & M owner in business as it is paying for the value he provides for you.

That is a great point, and something that I had not thought of. His atmosphere and presentation, for lack of a better way of expressing it, will provide a sense of exclusivity and cachet to a brand, making it a different sort of product than a punch or macanudo. It would make a case to certain people to buy that product when, where, and while it is available.

All other considerations aside, mostly that it manipulates the consumer into paying more, that is still a valid and acceptable business model. Consumer choices are what it is about, and take it or leave it is one of them.

They are your product. You have a right, to a certain extent, to dictate where and how they are sold. I'm not going any further into these details, so as not to start a riot.