Sam Leccia, General Cigar Co. Part Ways

Source from:  Cigar Aficionado 01/22/2016

After a relatively brief relationship, Sam Leccia has left his position at General Cigar Co. and will reportedly be taking his cigar brands with him.

Leccia, known for his Leccia Black, Leccia White and Luchador brands, announced the news via a Facebook post on his personal page, which was later confirmed by General Cigar.

"We have decided to part ways with Sam Leccia so that we may focus our efforts on our existing portfolio. We wish Sam well in his future endeavors," said Alan Willner, vice president of marketing.

General Cigar acquired Leccia's cigar brands in 2014 shortly after the cigar conglomerate bought the Toraño Family Cigar Co., which was distributing them at the time. Leccia also joined General as a "cigar and blend specialist," and the company began distributing his Leccia White, Leccia Black and Luchador brands while he was there.

In a conversation with Cigar Aficionado, Leccia stressed that he owns his trademarks and blends so he will be able to continue making them. When General Cigar brought Leccia in, it was reported that General Cigar also owned his blends, but not his trademarks. Leccia claims this isn't true.

"Nothing will change," he said, "rather than how the product arrives on shelves."

Leccia first gained attention in the premium cigar industry as the spokesperson and face for the Oliva NUb and Cain brands. After leaving Oliva in 2010, he eventually struck out on his own and partnered with Toraño Family Cigars for distribution.

Leccia said that he will formally announce his new distribution plans in the near future. Enditem