I have seen many moves in this industry over the years, and retailers buying brands used to be rare. Lately, it feels more like a signal of how people are adapting. Control the shelf. Control the story. Control the supply. Sometimes that is not about power; it is about survival and stability.

In this case, I see this as a positive step. With Smoke Inn Cigars taking over the intellectual property and brand assets of Protocol Cigars, this feels less like a trend grab and more like the right solution at the right time. If it means better consistency, better availability, and the brand staying true to what made people care in the first place, that is something worth supporting.

Here is the official press release…

Smoke Inn Cigars Acquires Cubariqueño Cigar Company, Makers of Protocol Cigars. 

Smoke Inn Cigars, a leading South Florida–based retailer and e-commerce destination for premium cigars, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Cubariqueño Cigar Company, the creators of Protocol Cigars—a boutique brand celebrated for its distinctive story, blends, and dedicated following.

This acquisition is designed to enhance the consistency of production and availability of Protocol Cigars, ensuring that consumers can more reliably find their favorite lines in stock. 

While ownership has changed, the heart of the brand and soul remains firmly intact. All Protocol Cigars will continue to be produced at the renowned La Zona Cigar Factory and at San Lotano by AJ Fernandez, preserving the quality, flavor profiles, and craftsmanship that Protocol smokers have come to expect.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Protocol Cigars to the Smoke Inn Cigars family,” said Smoke Inn Cigars owner Abe Dababneh. “Our focus is on supporting the brand by improving production stability and availability, so enthusiasts can confidently find the Protocol cigars they love. This acquisition is about stewardship—protecting what makes Protocol special from the story to the blends, while ensuring it remains consistently accessible to its fans.”

Protocol Cigars co-founder Juan Cancel will remain actively involved with the brand as a brand ambassador and creative contributor, continuing to play a key role in brand identity and future releases.

“I’m excited to work with Smoke Inn Cigars as we enter this next chapter for Protocol,” said Cancel. “This move allows us to better manage production and availability while maintaining the story, integrity, creativity, and quality that our customers expect. Most importantly, it ensures that Protocol fans can more consistently enjoy their favorite cigars without sacrificing the standards we’ve built the brand on.”

Protocol Cigars will continue releasing new and innovative blends, maintaining the storytelling, attention to detail, and bold profiles that have defined the brand since its inception. Moving forward, Protocol Cigars will be available exclusively through Smoke Inn Cigars, both online and at select retail locations.

For more information, visit Smoke Inn Cigars retail locations or shop online at www.smokeinn.com.