A hotel cigar program should fit the property and the guest experience. It might support a lounge, a terrace, a private event, or a specialty retail counter. Before buying inventory, decide where cigars belong in your operation and how your team will serve guests.

Choose the service model

Identify the specific setting: staffed lounge, approved outdoor area, retail display, or event service. Confirm applicable property policies and local requirements for tobacco sales and smoking areas. Then decide which team owns the program: food and beverage, retail, concierge, or a dedicated lounge manager.

Build around guest occasions

Think about the length and mood of a guest's visit. A short after-dinner moment calls for a different format than an extended terrace gathering. Include accessible choices for curious guests and deeper selections for experienced smokers. Keep the assortment focused enough for staff to explain with confidence.

Design the buying and storage process

Assign responsibility for ordering, receiving, product condition, humidor care, inventory counts, and transfers between outlets. Decide how the product will be displayed and how staff will know what is actually available. A beautiful display only works when the inventory behind it is controlled.

Prepare staff for service

Give frontline employees a concise reference for each cigar: strength, size, expected smoking time, and an easy recommendation for a guest preference. Train staff on presentation and your property's service standards. Pairing suggestions can be useful when they suit the venue, but do not make them a substitute for learning the cigars.

Start small and review

Launch with a curated assortment and monitor what guests request, what sells, and where demand occurs. Events and seasonal occupancy can change the mix. Adjust replenishment to actual use, and review the program with the staff serving guests.

Explore our wholesale service for hotels and resorts. To discuss a program for your property, apply for a wholesale account and tell us about your venue and intended service model.