In a letter to the media, Robert and Sharon Holt stated the company will not be participating in any in-person events for the remainder of 2020.
This decision was not reached easily, but the company recognizes the severity of he COVID-19 virus and felt it was best to follow the guidelines in place. The company also recognizes that these guidelines vary from state to state, across the nation, and also change based on current data. This makes it hard to plan for travel.
The company noted that the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic, has taken a toll on Southern Draw Cigars and the industry as a whole. In the letter, the company stated:
“Missed sales opportunities, cancelled/postponed events and new product launches, coupled with significant non-refundable travel and promotional costs, have adversely impacted our revenues and cash flow. We continue our production in Nicaragua, although we have been forced to adjust our quarterly and annual forecasts significantly, please allow us to apologize in advance as some of our SKU’s will be in short supply. “
Challenges and Solutions
Southern Draw recognizes the challenges the industry is facing and will be adopting new methods of delivering quality handmade cigars at a fair price while increasing awareness and providing quantifiable contributions to our select charities.
In lieu of in person meetings and events, the company will be hosting and supporting virtual herfs, social media platforms, conference calls, and interactions with their favorite cigar community forums. Through these channels the company will be sharing several new product launches and collaborations that are planned for releases in the second half of 2020. If you wish to host a virtual herf or meeting and would like to have a Southern Draw Cigars representative involved, the company asks that you contact [email protected] with your requested date and time.
In Closing
Robert, Sharon, and the entire Southern Draw Cigars family closed in stating:
“Our families members hope and pray for a breakthrough in the treatment and/or vaccination or a highly effective form of prevention of the COVID-19 virus, where it may be deemed safe for us to come together before the end of the year. We remain open minded and willing to consider a return to business-as-usual which for Southern Draw Cigars, means living on the road and visiting as many of our brothers and sisters as possible.
Take care of yourselves and each other. Let us know if we can assist you in any way. We will continue to do everything we can to help our cigar communities stay safe, informed, and connected through their favorite cigars and some great conversations. Much Love and we thank you all!“
