In a world where everything is just a click away, cigars have joined the digital landscape.
More and more cigar companies are adding a virtual presence, letting you get your hands on your favorite stogies from the comfort of your home.
It's the new-age convenience of online cigar shopping right at your fingertips.
However, a crew of true-blue cigar enthusiasts still want to touch, smell, and feel the cigar in their hands before committing. That's where the brick-and-mortar cigar shops step in, offering a reliable option for those who like to keep it old-school. But what sets these two worlds apart?
Let's break down the key differences between shopping for cigars online vs through in-person retail stores so you can identify which method suits you the best.
Key Takeaways
- Selection and Variety: Online stores have a larger variety of cigars, while retail stores offer a more curated, specialized selection.
- Pricing and Deals: Online stores often have lower prices and bulk deals but with added shipping fees unless you reach a minimum amount. Retail stores might be pricier but offer in-person discounts and sales.
- Reliability and Storage Conditions: Online shopping relies on the retailer's reputation for cigar quality, whereas retail stores allow physical inspection and assurance of proper storage.
- Expertise and Assistance: Online stores provide some assistance via phone, chat, or email, whereas retail stores offer instant and personalized recommendations.
- Convenience and Experience: Online shopping is more convenient and available anytime, anywhere. Retail stores provide immediate product access and a unique in-store experience.
Shopping for Cigars Online vs. Retail Stores: 6 Key Differentiators
You're on a mission to find your all-time favorite cigar. There are two main ways to go about it: browsing through online web pages or stepping into a retail store for that specific brand.
Here are seven key differences between both options to help you decide:
1. Selection and Variety
Online
Shopping for cigars online is like embarking on a worldwide cigar treasure hunt without leaving your chair.
Online stores tend to have a more extensive selection since they aren't in a confined space. As such, they typically have a wide variety of brands from around the globe.
Whether you're into stronger Nicaraguan cigars from Estelí or something on the milder side with a Connecticut wrapper, you'll find it online.
In-Person
Now, stepping into a brick-and-mortar store offers a different experience.
The selection might not match the vastness of online options, but it's thoughtfully curated.
Each physical store has its personality, focusing on specific brands or regions. The size of the store influences what cigars they carry, giving it a specialized, boutique feel.
You might stumble upon locally crafted gems or limited-edition releases unique only to that shop.
2. Pricing
Online
Regarding the price tag, online cigar stores often come with a sweeter deal. You'll find more competitive pricing online, not to mention tempting discounts, specials, and options for buying cigars in bundles.
Remember to consider the shipping fee. At Atlantic Cigar Co., we offer free shipping on orders $99 and up.
If you're looking for the best deals, consider joining our cigar membership VIP club where you get:
- Free UPS SurePost shipping on all order over $99.00* (Domestic Only)
- Reduced pricing on most items
- Exclusive offers and specials only for VIP Members
- Monthly informative newsletter
- Monthly raffles awarded to a VIP Member
- Special limited items offered to VIP members before the public
In-Person
If you're all about that face-to-face experience, brick-and-mortar stores typically have slightly higher prices.
Occasionally, you'll find sales, in-person discounts, and even price matching.
It's like paying more for the atmosphere and in-person experience, but you can still find deals from time to time.
3. Reliability and Storage
Online
When it comes to the world of online cigar shopping, trust is key. You're relying on the retailer's reputation to guarantee proper storage and handling.
Also, be wary of online scams; some stores might try to pass off counterfeit cigars. There have been cases where fake Instagram accounts have even tried to scam the cigar community.
In-Person
Now, for those who like to see it before they believe it, walking into a physical store is your game. You get to inspect the quality of the cigar with your eyes and ensure it is in excellent condition. It's a hands-on experience, ensuring you take home only the finest smokes that meet your standards.
4. Expertise and Assistance
Online
When you're trying to order cigars online (especially as a newbie), it's a bit like finding your way in a vast library. Some online stores might have chat support or guides, which can be helpful. You may want to reach out and call your online shop. Some will have on-hand tobacconists available ready to assist you with finding the right cigar.
In-Person
If you're all about that one-on-one interaction, stepping into a physical store is where it's at. The staff there can offer you personalized recommendations, share their expertise, and answer all your burning questions immediately.
Need a recommendation that aligns perfectly with your taste buds? Wondering which cigar pairs well with that new 15-year-aged scotch you just picked up? Just ask, and they'll share their wisdom.
5. Convenience
Online
Shopping for cigars online is the epitome of convenience. You can browse and buy cigars from anywhere, at any time, day or night.
There's no need to plan a trip or worry about store closing hours. Whether you're at home, work, or enjoying a quiet evening on the porch, online cigar stores are always open.
In-Person
Buying from a retail store requires a bit of movement – you've got to get yourself to the location.
It's not as instant as the online click-and-buy, but there's a trade-off. You walk in, make your choice, pay, and walk out with your cigars in hand. And, if you happen to step into one of the three cigar retail lounges by The Cigar Republic, you can buy the cigars and enjoy them in a relaxing atmosphere with fellow enthusiasts.
6. Return Policy and Guarantees
Online
When buying cigars online, be sure to read about return policies before committing to a purchase. Many trustworthy online stores have your back with reasonable return policies.
In-Person
If your in-person cigar experience is different from what you expected, solving issues is straightforward. You can talk directly with the store staff and resolve the issue swiftly.
7. Overall Experience
Online
In the online cigar scene, you'll experience what we've become accustomed to in the past decade - a streamlined checkout process.
Numerous online retailers offer the ability to create a personal account, where your details are securely saved for swift and effortless purchases.
Your order history is also saved, making it a breeze to reorder your favorite cigars with just a few clicks.
In-Person
Stepping into a retail store is an experience on another level. Many cigar enthusiasts appreciate the ambiance of a cigar shop. The environment, often including lounges, can be a place to relax and socialize.
Imagine good music, the comforting hum of conversations, and a vibe that turns each visit into a mini celebration.
Which Store Option is Best for You?
The best cigar shopping method depends on personal preference and convenience.
Online shopping is ideal for those seeking a wide selection and competitive prices, especially if local stores are scarce. It offers the ease of shopping from anywhere with the potential for great deals.
In contrast, in-person cigar shopping caters to those who value the experience of physically examining cigars and receiving personalized service. It's about immediate satisfaction and the tangible pleasure of selecting cigars directly from the shelf.
Ultimately, whether you choose online or retail shopping depends on your preferences and the type of cigar-buying experience you desire. Both methods have their unique advantages, catering to different aspects of the cigar enthusiast's journey.