Espinosa and Pure Aroma Cigars End Distribution Agreement
Pure Aroma Cigars Inc., best known for its D'Crossier cigar brands, has announced an end to its distribution agreement with Espinosa Premium Cigars. According to Santana Diaz, president of Pure Aroma Cigars, the company was unable to meet the production requirements of Erik Espinosa, brand owner of Espinosa Premium Cigars.
"We always knew that the production levels of the factory in Costa Rica was not sufficient to meet Erik's distributions demands," Diaz told Cigar Aficionado. "He is a great salesperson and running a very well organized operation, but the biggest factor is my aging process. It is really hard for me to release cigars that I believe are not matured enough to be enjoyable."
Diaz notes that he planned to expand Pure Aroma Cigars S.A., his factory in Costa Rica, and increase his production capabilities, but uncertainty over recent FDA regulations caused him to put those plans on hold.
"The game plan was to grow the factory to obtain production capability. Unfortunately, all my projections were put on halt due to the new FDA deeming regulations," Diaz said.
Diaz says that, despite these roadblocks, he will continue to manufacture and sell his cigar brands.
"This is not the end of the Santana days I can promise that," Diaz said. "I'll be supplying the accounts gradually. As far as more growth and new accounts, we will see how to address it. For now I'll be doing what I do best. One thing for sure is that I'm not dropping my D'Crossier flag while I'm alive. ... I'll be taking over the distribution."
Established in 2006, Pure Aroma Cigars Inc. is based in Miami, Florida.
"It's unfortunate, I know how hard we have both worked over the last few years to promote his brands," Espinosa said. "But this is one of those hurdles you encounter along your way. I have no doubt that he will make the necessary adjustments."
