Social media has already been abuzz earlier this week with this news, as the announcement and numerous congratulatory posts flooded Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Below is the formal press release from Villiger Cigars North America.
Villiger Cigars North America Names Rene Castaneda As New President
February 5, 2016 (Miami, FL via PRNewswire) -- Villiger Cigars North America proudly names Rene Castaneda as their new President. In this new role, Castaneda will oversee all aspects of US operations, including sales and marketing. Castaneda will work in tandem, with managing director, Michael Blumendeller. Villiger Cigars North America goes forward with their plans to restructure and stay true to their commitment of providing the cigar industry with the best quality cigars.
Rene Castaneda has an expansive tenure in the premium cigar industry where he was previously the Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Miami Cigar & Co. Most recently, he held the same position for the Orleans Group International and spearheaded the hugely successful Dram Cigars for Whiskey campaign. Castaneda is an Industrial Engineer with extensive knowledge in operations, distribution, logistics and inventory management.
Rene Castaneda stated: "It is truly an honor to be chosen for this position, at a company so rich in history. We plan on being an innovative company while bringing Villiger back to its roots. I have all the confidence that Villiger Cigars North America will soon be the standard. Our plan is to develop brands that connect with the consumers while working alongside retailers, and all partners, providing the best products and service. We want the consumer to know that Villiger Cigars has a deep history, originating in 1888, and represents the 'original classic.'"
The hiring of Rene Castaneda is one of the many changes occurring at Villiger Cigars North America. One of many announcements in the near future will include changes in the Villiger Cigars North America portfolio, which will encompass new premium cigar brands.
Michael Blumendeller, Managing Director for Villiger Cigars North America states: "Mr. Heinrich Villiger is as committed as ever to the U.S. market. We are looking forward to bringing back VCNA headquarters to Miami. Rene is a true cigar man and there is no doubt that he will represent the Villiger Cigar brand with passion, and respect."
ABOUT VILLIGER SONS LIMITED AND VILLIGER NORTH AMERICA:
Villiger Sons Limited was established in 1888 by Jean Villiger in the small town of Pfeffikon, Switzerland, where Villiger remains headquartered to this day. The company manufactures and sells more than 1.5 billion cigars annually, worldwide. Today, under the leadership of Heinrich Villiger, the company prides itself in its commitment to quality, in all their products made in many countries around the globe.
Villiger Cigars North America was established to service the premium cigar enthusiast primarily in the United States. With production from some of the most respected manufacturers in Dominican Republic, Central America and elsewhere, it is the goal of the company to introduce the finest smoking experience a premium handmade cigar has to offer. Today, and in the future, one can rest assured that when they choose a Villiger cigar, the quality of the leaf, the manufacturing, and even the packaging will be second to none.
Follow the NEW Villiger Cigars North America on social @VilligerCigarsNorthAmerica #TheOriginalClassic