Expert: James Yee - 12/27/2007

Question
James,

I've read a number of your responses to varied questions regarding legitimate cuban cigar retailers. I may of missed it somewhere but I have to wonder, why is it the authorized distributors of genuine cuban cigars for each region around the world doesn't simply post an always updated listing of the retailers they supply? It'd sure help prospective buyers...or do they too have something to hide?

Thanks

Thanks

Answer
Hi Greg,

To answer your question, authorized Habanos SA distributors do keep a list of authorized retailers that they supply.  This list is usually on their website(s) and though some distributor websites may lack this list, they are more than happy to contact concerned customers either through email or snail mail and send them a list of authorized retailers for their region.

These lists however, usually only mention retail stores and not online mailorder companies because it's harder to keep track of the numerous mailorder companies that constantly spring up almost every month.  It's hard to keep track of online retailers because it's quite easy for an online retailer to change the website name, web address, etc.  In most cases, many online retailers are fraudulant "fly-by-night" companies that constantly shut down and reopen under a new name.  Most reputable online merchants however, would still have a retail store and be listed on a distributor's approved list.

The list of authorized Habanos SA distributors can be viewed here at Habanos SA's official website.  For each distributor, you should be able to find either an email link for customer support or the distributor's official website:

http://www.habanos.com/distributors.aspx?lang=en

Hope this answers your question.  If you have any more questions, please feel free to just ask and I'll be happy to help.

Regards,
James