BUILD YOUR NETWORK
COMMUNICATE YOUR BRAND
PRESERVE INDUSTRY INTEGRITY
WE ARE OF PROFESSIONALS
MEMBERSHIP
The Boutique Cigar Association’s (BCA) initial purpose was to protect the rights of the cigar industry professionals like you. Today, less than 6 years later, our mission has grown to represent so much more. Out roster just like our goals have expanded to include foster a sense of community, promote our brands and inspire participation in the outspoke organizations including PCA and CRA.
Membership is offered for all types of cigar industry-related businesses. Note that the primary business must be inside of the premium tobacco industry. The BCA offers admission to Boutique* Cigar Manufacturers, Retailers, Lounges and Bars (cigar-centric only), Brokers and Distributers, Accessory Companies, Suppliers and Media outlets.
The 2023 BCA membership is valid from January 1, 2023 — December 31, 2023. Dues are annual and are not prorated meaning if a member joins mid-year they must pay for the entire year. 2023 Membership will open October 1, 2022. Any dues payment made after October 1, 2022 will count towards the 2023 Membership year.
MEMBERSHIP OVERVIEW
Joining the Boutique Cigar Association (BCA) allows you to be a part of a community of companies and individuals that work together and share the collective knowledge and talents of all members to make a difference in the premium boutique cigar industry and help each other succeed. In addition, the BCA desires to level the playing field in the premium cigar industry and to place (and keep) a spotlight on the value and importance smaller boutique cigar manufacturers bring to the industry. By becoming a member, you too can share your knowledge and talents while also enjoying the many benefits of membership
MEMBERSHIP PROCESS
– NEW MEMBER INFORMATION
When you express interest in applying for membership, we will send you information about the BCA and the membership process. This information will include an application for membership which you will fill out and return according to the directions provided.
– MEMBERSHIP STANDARDS
When you receive your membership application, we will provide the basic membership standards to you (and your team as applicable).
– BOARD OF DIRECTORS REVIEW
Once your application has been completed and submitted, it will be reviewed and voted on by the BCA Board of Directors at an upcoming board meeting. Prospective members will be notified of the board’s decision soon thereafter.
BCA MEMBERSHIP TIERS
MANUFACTURER
Companies that manufacture cigars
BRAND OWNERS
Companies and/or individuals that own a registered cigar company/brand in the United States
IMPORTER
A company that imports into the United States
BROKER
A company that brokers within the United States
DISTRIBUTOR
Companies that distribute cigars
RETAILER
A licensed retailer, defined as brick & mortar, online, or both, that primarily sells, promotes and markets
LOUNGE
A licensed lounge/bar that primarily caters to the consumer
CIGAR ACCESSORIES PARTNER
Cigar accessory and/or lifestyle companies that primarily sell, promote and market in/to the premium cigar industry
MEDIA AFFILIATE
A company, group or individual involved in media
CONSUMER/CONNOISSEUR
An individual that enjoys premium cigars
MANUFACTURER
Companies that manufacture cigars intended for sale in the United States may become Manufacturer Members. Only manufacturers producing fewer than 500,000 cigars per year are eligible for membership in the BCA at this time.
Factory Owner
Do Not Own Factory
Annual Fee: $300
MEMBER FEATURES & BENEFITS
Community Action
We are building a community of like minded entrepreneurs and tobacco experts. Small businesses find strength in numbers. Working together towards similar goals in expanding market share.
Cigar Brand Rights
To become a part of a unified voice against Federal regulations, including FDA regulations on premium cigars.
To learn and master every aspect of the boutique cigar business through expert consultants and internal knowledge from other brand owners. Together we become a resource center for any questions you may have, in any facet of your business.
Events & Festivals
Boutique Cigar Association events are a combination of small intimate gathers up to large high-energy events that are about the relationships we have forged and value. We bring out our A-Game to every festival and welcome all people from everywhere to enjoy the power of mutual enjoyment of a great cigar amongst friends.
Distribution Networks
We have talks in place to establish a central distribution facility for all boutique cigar companies that wish to participate. This is something in development now and information will be made available in time. This is part of our long-term goals.
Marketing Your Business
You will have direct access and support from our partner Cigar Box Marketing, a highly skilled and profession marketing and advertising agency specializing in methods on improving and expanding corporate and brand appeal.
Retailer Network
We are currently developing a data bank of retailers that support boutique cigars, this information will be made available to you in the year to come as we continue to compile records in order to create a current and active list.
Company Promotion
We will promote your business, brands, and products on our social media pages with over 5000 active and organic followers. We will promote your business, brands, and products on our podcast. The last show we did has 1540 active downloads.
Corporate Co-op Advertising Opportunities
The BCA plans to bring together resources through multiple brand partners so that we can effectively advertise and market our products in print magazines as well digital platform. An example is placing a full page in the 2023 PCA Magazine to highlight the brands that are going to be in the Boutique Cigar Pavilion. This is now in the works.
The BCA membership gives you and your business a direct connection to every facet of the industry, providing exceptional opportunities for networking and growth, offering business support, advocacy, education and year-round buying opportunities.
The 2023 BCA membership is valid from January 1, 2023 — December 31, 2023. Dues are annual and are not prorated meaning if a member joins mid-year they must pay for the entire year. 2023 Membership will open October 1, 2022. Any dues payment made after October 1, 2022 will count towards the 2023 Membership year.
Our membership is limited to those who share our values, goals and standards
To become a member of the Boutique Cigar Association, you must provide the following information:
Location for your business – We need to know where your cigars are being stored, shipped out, and the distribution center’s physical address.
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Tobacco license – We require a copy of the tobacco license that you currently hold or are using to perform business in the United States.
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Federal or State licenses – We require your federal or state licenses as proof of your legal existence.
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Good standing in the community – We believe in the importance of building trust with our members and we like to make sure that you have no pending illegal cases or any criminal records.
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Good financial status – We like to make sure that you have a good financial standing. You could request a letter of reference from their bank.
