Lure Of A Good Smoke Helped Doral Cigar Shop Pivot During The Pandemic
DORAL (CBSMiami) – Small businesses across South Florida had a tough time during the pandemic, but those who got by were supported by loyal customers, including the Sabor Havana cigar shop in Doral.
The lure of a good smoke is what kept this business alive because a great cigar can be a great escape for some people.
"It relaxes you. It distresses you. It takes you away from the problems that we all encounter in life," explained Jorge Valdes from Sabor Havana Cigars.
The cigar store dealt with the impact of the pandemic, including a brief shutdown for non-essential personnel and all of the city and county regulations. It also accepted the first round of pay roll protection funds in order to stay afloat.
The store also produced an online video to reassure attendees at a mid-pandemic lunch honoring first responders.
However, keeping cigars in stock was a pandemic challenge due to shortages in the supply chain.
"There were times there were some cigars that we regularly have got tied up with shipping because they would not be able to get into the U.S. and there were shortages," said Valdes.
To combat the shortages, Sabor Havana stocked up when they could and bought in bulk whenever possible and so did its regular customers.
"If they normally bought 10 cigars, they would buy a box. If they usually bought a box, they would buy two because of the shipping and availability issue," said Valdes.
Their big event, "Smoke This," has been postponed twice and rescheduled twice but is now back for December 4.
They also kept the business going by offering customers private shopping events and offered curbside pickup and deliveries.
