Fall 2020 PCA Magazine

Our advocacy and lobbying team work to produce one-pagers and informational resources to make this process straightforward and easy to get involved in for manufacturers, retail store owners, employees and consumers. As we enter 2021 with a new Congress and adjourning of dozens of state legislatures, we must build off our past success and amplify the voices of our industry once again. This is a continuous process that requires self-starters and vigilant ambassadors for premium cigars. PCA tracked legislation at the state level that would require any purveyor of tobacco to be required to sell a nicotine cessation product at their store, lounge or venue. These nicotine cessation products are meant to curb the use of mass-market combustible cigarettes. We quickly contacted state lawmakers and mobilized grassroots advocates to educate policymakers on the infrequency of use and how premium cigars do not satisfy a nicotine addiction or craving. The language of the original version of the bill would have forced small businesses to carry products that would not apply to their products or consumers. This would have been a costly requirement for small businesses in a challenging time. Our educational efforts, along with the efforts of retailers and consumers in that state have resulted in an open dialogue with bill sponsors and a willingness to amend the legislation to improve the overall effectiveness of the bill and to tailor the language to produce actual policy outcomes. If you are a PCA member, you have likely seen key statistics and facts highlighted time and again. This repetition is part of a concerted effort as part of our overall education and outreach strategy to build a basic understanding of premium cigars so that we may effectively mobilize people to carry that message forward. You have the power to make a difference. A simple call, email, text message or social media post can be the difference between successful assertion of our factual narrative and ending up lumped in with other tobacco products. Gov’t Briefing cont. Matte Finish Front and Clear Back Panel Humidification Device Recommended (not included) The Ultimate Laminated Metalized Foil Cigar Bag Open-bottom and top-sealed laminated retail bag allows cigars and Boveda pack to be loaded from the bottom and heat-sealed by retailer. ( Sold with or without Boveda pack.) Humi-Zip ™ Padded Moisture Barrier Protection No Humidification Device Required Holds Up To 5 Churchill Cigars The Ultimate Moisture Pad Cigar Bag Custom Designs Also Available (800) 321-1223 www.bagsofbags.com Increase Sales with Cigar Retail Packs! Promote New Products Sell Slow-moving Stock Give Gift Packs Create Subscription Packs Build-your-own Bundles