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Tag: Indiana

  • Indiana Bill Allows Vendors to Sell Cigars at Events

    Indiana Bill Allows Vendors to Sell Cigars at Events

    A bill would allow tobacco vendors in Indiana to obtain a three-year supplemental cigar sales certificate, allowing them to sell cigars at an event on a temporary basis, passed through the Senate today (April 9) by a vote of 41-8. House Bill 1468, authored by State Rep. Kyle Miller, will head to the governor’s desk following a concurrence vote in the House.

     “I am thrilled to see my legislation pass through the Senate,” Miller said. “HB 1468 will help many small businesses that sell cigars across our state by allowing them to vend at public events. This legislation will ensure that our businesses are engaging with their communities and can promote their trade outside of their shops. 

    “Passing this bill is a great step taken by the legislature to foster entrepreneurship in Indiana by promoting our small businesses. As a small business owner myself, I’m proud to fight for legislation that encourages entrepreneurship in our state.”

  • Smoker Friendly Acquires Low Bob’s Locations

    Smoker Friendly Acquires Low Bob’s Locations

    Credit: Smoker Friendly

    The Smoker Friendly chain of retail stores announced it is acquiring 54 Low Bob’s Discount Tobacco locations in Indiana.

    The Cigarette Store, LLC, parent company of Smoker Friendly, announced its acquisition of Richmond Master Distributors, Inc., the owner of Low Bob’s Discount Tobacco. The stores will be rebranded as Smoker Friendly locations.

    There are 344 Smoker Friendly locations across 13 states, as well as independently owned stores within the Smoker Friendly network. The company has its own private-label brands and operates the Rocky Mountain Cigar Festival, according to Charlie Minato of Halfwheel.

    “We are very pleased to welcome the Low Bob’s team to the Smoker Friendly family,” said Terry Gallagher Jr., CEO of Smoker Friendly, in a press release. Pat and Scott Carrico and the Richmond Master team have been longtime friends and leaders in the tobacco outlet channel. We are fortunate to make this acquisition and strengthen our Smoker Friendly footprint in Indiana, bringing our store count to 80 in the state.”