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CFPB Orders Apple and Goldman Sachs to Pay Over $89 Million for Apple Card Failures

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 23, 2024

CONTACT:
Office of Communications
press@cfpb.gov

CFPB Orders Apple and Goldman Sachs to Pay Over $89 Million for Apple Card Failures

Companies illegally mishandled transaction disputes and misled iPhone purchasers about interest-free payment options

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) took action against Apple and Goldman Sachs for customer service breakdowns and misrepresentations that impacted hundreds of thousands of Apple Card users. The CFPB found that Apple failed to send tens of thousands of consumer disputes of Apple Card transactions to Goldman Sachs, and when Apple did send disputes to Goldman Sachs, the bank did not follow numerous federal requirements for investigating the disputes. Apple and Goldman launched Apple Card despite third-party warnings to Goldman that the Apple Card disputes system was not ready due to technological issues. These failures meant that consumers faced long waits to get money back for disputed charges, and some had incorrect negative information added to their credit reports. The CFPB is ordering Goldman Sachs to pay at least $19.8 million in redress and a $45 million civil money penalty, and Apple to pay a $25 million civil money penalty. The CFPB is also banning Goldman Sachs from launching a new credit card unless it can provide a credible plan that the product will actually comply with the law.

The CFPB also found that Apple and Goldman Sachs misled consumers about interest-free payment plans for Apple devices. Many customers thought they would automatically get interest-free monthly payments when buying Apple devices with their Apple Card. Instead, they were charged interest. In some cases, Apple did not even show the interest-free payment option on its website on certain browsers. Goldman Sachs also misled consumers about the application of some refunds, which led to consumers paying additional interest charges.

“Apple and Goldman Sachs illegally sidestepped their legal obligations for Apple Card borrowers. Big Tech companies and big Wall Street firms should not behave as if they are exempt from federal law,” said CFPB Director Rohit Chopra. “The CFPB is banning Goldman Sachs from offering a new consumer credit card unless it can demonstrate that it can actually follow the law.”

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE: GS), is one of the largest financial institutions in the world. It operates Goldman Sachs Bank USA, headquartered in New York City. Goldman Sachs primarily focuses on investment banking and investment management, not consumer finance. Apple Card was Goldman Sachs’s first significant experiment in credit card lending.

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) is a multinational technology company headquartered in Cupertino, California. Apple entered the financial services market in 2014 and has offered several consumer financial products, including Apple Pay, a mobile payment system and digital wallet service; Apple Cash, a digital debit card allowing for peer-to-peer payments; Apple Pay Later, a Buy Now, Pay Later product; and Apple Card, the company’s first credit card.

Apple Card Partnership

Apple’s business model relies on substantial revenue and profits from sales of its devices, such as iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks. Many of Apple’s products are more expensive than other brands, leading many consumers to finance purchases with payment plans and credit products.

In August 2019, Apple introduced Apple Card in partnership with Goldman Sachs Bank, marking a significant expansion into consumer lending for both companies. The partnership allowed Apple to provide a financing mechanism to ratchet up sales of its devices, including iPhones and iPads. The Apple Card also sought to induce more spending at Apple’s retail stores and Apple’s App Store.

Goldman Sachs’ involvement in Apple Card was part of the bank’s foray into consumer finance, which began in 2016 with the launch of its Marcus brand. Despite limited experience in the consumer credit card market, the Apple Card partnership offered Goldman Sachs a prime opportunity to establish itself in the market.

With the Apple Card, Goldman Sachs extends credit to consumers and handles account servicing. Apple designed the customer-facing interfaces used to manage Apple Card accounts on Apple devices. That includes a “Report an Issue” feature which allows consumers to dispute Apple Card transactions. Apple was also deeply involved in marketing and advertising.

Apple and Goldman’s agreement incentivized an earlier introduction of Apple Card by giving Apple the right to impose a $25 million penalty for each 90-day delay caused by Goldman. Four days before launch, the Goldman Sachs board of directors learned that critical Apple Card disputes systems were “not fully ready” due to technological issues, but the companies proceeded anyway.

Later, in December 2019, Goldman Sachs and Apple introduced a new feature called Apple Card Monthly Installments, which allows users to finance the purchase of certain Apple devices with Apple Card directly from Apple through interest-free monthly installments, similar to a Buy Now, Pay Later product.

Servicing and Communications Meltdowns

When Apple’s customers experienced improper charges or filed disputes, the systems developed by the companies failed to address them. Under federal law, when consumers dispute transactions as fraudulent or unauthorized financial institutions must conduct a timely inquiry on what went wrong. Goldman Sachs failed to adhere to this requirement. Separately, many disputes submitted to Apple were not even sent to Goldman Sachs at all. Additionally, Apple’s deceptive marketing materials and illegal conduct caused consumers to pay interest on purchases of iPhones and other Apple devices with Apple Card that they believed would be covered by an interest-free payment plan. The CFPB’s investigation found violations of the Consumer Financial Protection Act and the Truth in Lending Act.  The CFPB also found that the companies harmed consumers by:

  • Failing to process or share consumer disputes: Apple Card users were directed to dispute transactions through a “Report an Issue” feature in the Wallet app. For some disputes, Apple sent consumers a separate link in the Messages app asking for more information. Apple failed to send these disputes to Goldman Sachs if the second form was incomplete. Even after Goldman Sachs alerted Apple to this issue, the problem persisted. As a result, neither Apple nor Goldman Sachs investigated tens of thousands of such disputes and cardholders were unfairly held responsible for disputed transactions.
  • Failing to investigate cardholder disputes: For the disputes that Apple did send to Goldman Sachs, the bank failed to consistently send acknowledgment notices within 30 days, conduct reasonable investigations, or send resolution letters explaining the determinations of its investigations within 90 days. These failures led to Goldman Sachs illegally placing damaging information on consumers’ credit reports and holding cardholders responsible for potentially fraudulent or unauthorized purchases.
  • Misleading cardholders about a payment plan for iPhones and other Apple products: The marketing of the Apple Card Monthly Installments plan led consumers to believe they would automatically receive interest-free financing when purchasing iPhones and other Apple devices with their Apple Card. The plan allowed cardholders to purchase Apple devices through a series of interest-free payments over a period of six months to two years. However, many cardholders were unknowingly charged interest because they were not automatically enrolled as expected. They also faced confusing checkout options about enrolling in the plan. For online purchases, Apple only presented the payment plan as an option to consumers using Apple’s own Safari browser. Due to Apple and Goldman’s actions, instead of making interest-free payments, thousands of cardholders purchased Apple devices on interest-bearing revolving balances and incurred interest charges.
  • Misleading cardholders about refunds: Cardholders with an Apple Card Monthly Installments plan essentially had two card balances – the plan balance and their interest-bearing revolving balance. For more than 10,000 cardholders, Goldman Sachs misled consumers about how it would apply certain refunds between the two balances. Contrary to Goldman’s representations, portions of refunds for unrelated purchases were applied to the interest-free plan balance instead of the interest-bearing revolving balance. As a result, consumers incurred additional and unexpected interest expenses.

Enforcement Action

Under the Consumer Financial Protection Act, the CFPB has the authority to take action against institutions that violate federal consumer financial laws, including by engaging in unfair, deceptive, or abusive acts and practices. The CFPB also has the authority to enforce the Truth in Lending Act and Regulation Z.

Today’s order against Apple requires the company to pay a civil money penalty of $25 million, which will be paid into the CFPB’s victims relief fund.

The CFPB is also ordering Goldman Sachs to pay at least $19.8 million in redress to victims for its role in marketing, offering, and servicing the Apple Card. Goldman Sachs must also pay a $45 million civil money penalty. Before introducing any new credit card product, Goldman Sachs must give the CFPB a credible plan for how the product will comply with the law. If Goldman Sachs makes another attempt to enter the credit card market, the CFPB plans to closely police the company to avoid repeat offenses.

Read today’s order against Apple.

Read today’s order against Goldman Sachs.

Consumers can submit complaints about financial products and services by visiting the CFPB’s website or by calling (855) 411-CFPB (2372).

Employees who believe their company has violated federal consumer financial protection laws are encouraged to send information about what they know to whistleblower@cfpb.gov. To learn more about reporting potential industry misconduct, visit the CFPB’s website.

The Incomparable Rocky Mountain Cigar Festival Readies for Another Great Event

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The Rocky Mountain Cigar Festival: A Premiere Event in Broomfield, Colorado

Every year, the Rocky Mountain Cigar Festival transforms the picturesque city of Broomfield, Colorado into the epicenter of cigar culture. Hosted at the luxurious Omni Interlocken Hotel, this event has become a staple for aficionados and casual smokers alike, offering an unparalleled experience in the world of cigars, spirits, and music.

A Glimpse into the Festival

The Rocky Mountain Cigar Festival is not just an event; it’s a celebration of the art and tradition of cigar smoking. Set against the towering backdrop of the Omni Interlocken Hotel on its sloping hill, the festival attracts thousands of cigar enthusiasts from all over the World, eager to sample a diverse array of cigars, beers, and spirits. The festival’s impressive lineup includes prominent brands such as Arturo Fuente, Rocky Patel, Drew Estate, Foundation, La Galera, Espinosa, La Palina, Smoker Friendly, Gurkha, and many others. Each year, these brands come together to showcase their finest offerings, providing attendees with the opportunity to purchase and to explore new favorites and revisit classic choices.

Beyond the vast selection of cigars, the festival boasts an impressive roster of beer and spirits vendors, ensuring that there’s a perfect pairing for every palate. Whether you’re savoring a smooth bourbon or enjoying a craft beer, the festival’s variety of beverages complements the rich and diverse flavors of the cigars on offer.

Live Music and Entertainment

Adding to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere of live music that sets the perfect tone for the event. From jazz to rock, the live entertainment enhances the experience, creating an ambiance that’s as sophisticated as it is lively. The combination of great music and great cigars makes for an unforgettable experience that resonates long after the festival ends.

The Cigar Network’s Coverage

One of the highlights of the Rocky Mountain Cigar Festival is the coverage provided by The Cigar Network. This dedicated platform has been an integral part of the festival for years, bringing its extensive reach and expertise to the event. The Cigar Network captures every moment, from the bustling booths of cigar and spirit vendors to the relaxed enjoyment of festivalgoers. Their comprehensive coverage provides valuable insights, exclusive interviews, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the festival’s operations and highlights.

The Cigar Network’s involvement not only amplifies the festival’s reach but also underscores its importance in the cigar community. Their detailed reporting and engaging content help fans who can’t attend in person stay connected and immersed in the festival’s excitement.

A Class Above

The Rocky Mountain Cigar Festival is renowned for its organization, elegance, and sheer enjoyment. Every aspect of the event is meticulously planned to ensure a seamless experience for attendees. From the layout of the vendor booths to the scheduling of live performances, every detail contributes to a sophisticated and enjoyable atmosphere.

In a country with numerous cigar events, the Rocky Mountain Cigar Festival stands out as the most organized and classy affair. Its ability to consistently deliver an exceptional experience year after year speaks volumes about its dedication to celebrating cigar culture in the most enjoyable way possible.

As the Rocky Mountain Cigar Festival approaches each year, excitement builds among cigar enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. With its stunning venue, exceptional vendors, lively music, and the invaluable coverage provided by The Cigar Network, it’s no wonder the festival sells out annually. For anyone passionate about cigars, spirits, and a great time, this event is the ultimate destination—an experience that’s truly a cut above the rest.

EL REY DEL MUNDO NATURALS FIVE PACK COMING IN APRIL

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EL REY DEL MUNDO NATURALS FIVE PACK COMING IN APRIL

 

El Rey del Mundo Naturals, the Honduran-made line that launched in March 2022 will welcome
a five pack featuring its fan-favorite toro.

The bold, red “Locked-In Humidity” pack includes a Boveda humidification pouch to keep the
cigars fresh outside of a humidor for on-the-go smoking experiences.

Handcrafted by artisans at the HATSA factory in Danli, Honduras, El Rey Del Mundo Naturals is
a mellow-to-medium-bodied smoke featuring an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper, a Honduran
binder and a Honduran and Nicaraguan filler. The cigar delivers a smoking experience that is
richly layered, with a subtle note of white pepper, surrounded by deeper notes of cedar and
graham cracker.

Steve Abbot, director of marketing for STG said, “El Rey del Mundo is loaded with complexity,
versatile when it comes to pairing and accessibly priced. These factors have earned the brand a
devoted following over the last year. With this five pack, we’re making it convenient for cigar
lovers to enjoy the popular Reserva Salado frontmark anytime that calls for a great cigar.”

Reserva Salado (6” x 54); $29.99 per five pack

DIESEL DISCIPLE ADDS NEW SIZES

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DIESEL DISCIPLE ADDS NEW SIZES

Diesel Disciple will welcome two new sizes as permanent additions to the brand’s growing
lineup.

The soon-to-be-released Toro and Torpedo vitolas will mark the second and third sizes in the
line and will begin shipping this week.

Justin Andrews said, “We decided to launch two new sizes of Diesel Disciple this year because
the blend has gotten such a strong endorsement from the retail community. They love the
blend and the packaging and often tell us that Disciple smokes like a $20 cigar for half the
price. We’re looking forward to rolling out the new formats and will continue to expand the line
according to demand from retailers and cigar smokers.”

Handcrafted at Tabacalera AJ Fernandez in Estelí, Nicaragua and developed in collaboration
between AJ and STG’s Justin Andrews, Diesel Disciple is a robust and balanced cigar blended to
stand out in the medium-full spectrum.

Made with a Mexican San Andreas wrapper, an Ecuadoran Sumatra binder and a filler
exclusively comprised of Nicaraguan Habano from Esteli, the cigar exemplifies blending
expertise with an unexpected layer of sweetness that creates intrigue against Disciple’s bold
and peppery notes.

Diesel Disciple Toro (6.25” x 52); SRP per cigar $9.99
Diesel Disciple Torpedo (6.5” x 54); SRP per cigar $10.49

Both new Diesel Disciple sizes come in 10-count boxes. The line is distributed by Forged Cigar
Company.

Originally released to the top US brick and mortar retailers as a TAA exclusive in 2021, Diesel
Disciple became a full-time line in 2022 when the brand’s sole frontmark a Lancero (7” x 38)
became available in all channels.

Buy Artificial Turf in Southern California – Wholesale Artificial Grass – Buy Direct and Save

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Sponsored: Buy Artificial Turf in Southern California

 

www.GrassyTurf.net

 

PCA Applauds Governor Grisham’s Veto of Harmful Cigar Tax Increase in New Mexico

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PCA Applauds Governor Grisham’s Veto of Harmful Cigar Tax Increase in New Mexico

 

Washington, D.C. – The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) today expressed its appreciation to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham for vetoing the harmful 25% cigar tax hike in H.B. 547. The veto shields New Mexico premium cigar retailers from the adverse consequences such a drastic tax increase would have on their business.

 

PCA Director of State Advocacy, Glynn Loope, said, “We are grateful to Governor Grisham for recognizing the impact this tax increase would have had on small businesses and consumers in New Mexico, especially during these challenging times. Her decision to veto the cigar tax will undoubtedly work to keep sales of premium cigars in New Mexico.”

 

However, actions by the legislature to strip the cigar tax cap during the session need to be addressed. Loope stated, “Last week, I spoke to the Governor’s Office on this issue. Procedurally, her hands were tied. We look forward to working with the Governor’s Office and legislative allies to revisit this matter in the 2024 session.”

 

Loope continued, “We are pleased that the legislation that would have banned flavored tobacco products, as well as legislation that would have granted local governments sweeping authority over tobacco products failed to advance. We appreciate all of our premium cigar advocates, both retailers and consumers alike, who let their voices be heard on these issues.”

 

PCA represents over 3,000 members nationwide, including retailers, manufacturers, and distributors of premium cigars, and works to protect the interests of the premium cigar industry. The association has been advocating for the protection of premium cigars from harmful regulation, taxes, and other measures that threaten the industry.

PARTAGAS RELEASES FIRST US-MADE CIGAR IN COLLABORATION WITH EL TITÁN DE BRONZE

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PARTAGAS RELEASES FIRST US-MADE CIGAR IN
COLLABORATION WITH EL TITÁN DE BRONZE

Partagas will release its first collaboration in April with Partagas de Bronce, an exceptional
cigar handcrafted in Miami by the Cuban expatriate rollers of the famed El Titán de Bronze
Cigar Factory.

The cigar’s name calls upon the Spanish spelling of “bronce” in tribute to the origins of Partagas
and El Titan de Bronze.

Partagas de Bronce was blended by STG’s Justin Andrews, with Sandy Cobas and the blending
team at El Titán de Bronze. Made with a Corojo wrapper, Partagas de Bronce is a medium-
bodied Nicaraguan puro that brims with nuances. Cocoa, earth, wood, hints of citrus and an
intriguing creaminess deliver a cigar that highlights the heritage of Partagas with the artistry of
El Titán de Bronze.

John Hakim, brand manager of Partagas said, “For a venerable brand like Partagas,
collaborating with a legend like Sandy Cobas and creating a special, limited edition cigar at her
family-owned factory marks an important step in Partagas’ evolution. Partagas de Bronce
highlights Partagas’ devotion to old-world cigarmaking techniques, and its commitment to
marching the brand forward through innovation. We look forward to sharing this exceptional
blend with cigar lovers across the country.”

Partagas de Bronce will be released in April, when 5,000 boxes, each signed by the El Titán de
Bronze cigarmaker who crafted them, will ship to retailers. Each box contains ten cigars.
Partagas de Bronce Corona Gorda (6.25” x 46) – SRP per cigar $22.99

PCA Announces Date and Location for 2024 Annual Convention and Trade Show

 

[Washington, DC — Fri, March 24, 2023] The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) announced today that the 2024 Annual Convention and Trade Show will be held March 22-25, 2024 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. This marks a change from the traditional summer time trade show to earlier in the year. PCA is currently negotiating contracts for the 2025 Annual Convention and Trade Show for an early spring date in a new location and expects to announce that in the coming weeks.

 

“From pretty much my first day on the job, I have heard from numerous members that moving the trade show earlier in the year would be better for the annual business cycle,” said PCA Executive Director Scott Pearce. “Over the past couple of years we have sent out several surveys inquiring about time of year and location and we held a town-hall style meeting with the membership at last year’s trade show to elicit feedback from our members. Our board has listened and put in some good work to respond to the voice of our membership,” Pearce said.

 

“With the move to March, the board really feels that this an optimal time for the industry as retailers will be able to place orders before the busy season hits and get the new and exclusive products on their shelves when demand is the highest,” said Greg Zimmerman, president of the PCA Board. “Plus, we anticipate that many retailers who are not able to attend in summer when business is at its peak, will be able to attend our industry’s largest event,” Zimmerman said.

 

Zimmerman also recognized and thanked the Tobacconists Association of America (TAA) for their support as the new PCA trade show dates conflict with the traditional dates of the TAA meeting. “I know the new dates have presented a big challenge for TAA as March is typically when they hold their meeting. Throughout this process they have been incredibly understanding and supportive and I would like to sincerely thank their board for the hard work they have put in to adjust their plans to make the PCA date change a reality,” Zimmerman said.

 

Mike Conder, the associate board representative on the PCA Executive Committee said the earlier dates makes a lot of sense and anticipates it will yield good results for all who participate. “As an exhibitor, I do think having the show earlier will enhance our potential for product turns during the prime selling months for much of the country. Additionally, having the opportunity to meet with our retail partners earlier in the annual sales cycle to plan our events and other promotional activities will give everyone a better chance to maximize activity right through the year,” said Conder.

 

Chair of the PCA trade show committee and Vice President of the Board, Scott Regina, commented on the importance of PCA to continuously look for ways to evolve the trade show to meet the changing needs of the industry. “As a board, we seriously consider all aspects of the trade show as a way to benefit our members. We made sure to get a lot of feedback via surveys, meetings, and conversations to ensure that we were making good, informed decisions. I think that not only moving the dates of the show, but with many of the new initiatives that we’ve been adding to the show to enable more networking, exclusive products, and better educational seminars, the impact of the show will continue to grow,” Regina said.

 

For information on the PCA23 Annual Convention and Trade show please visit www.pcashow.org

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PUNCH CIGARS: LAUNCH NEW FULL-TIME LINE WITH GOLDEN ERA

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LAUNCH NEW FULL-TIME LINE WITH GOLDEN ERA

 

 

Punch invites cigar lovers to take a trip back in time with Punch Golden Era, a new, three-cigar
collection that will be a full-time addition to the Punch anthology.

Punch Golden Era celebrates the beauty and versatility of the corojo tobacco that had a starring role
in the “golden age” of cigars. Corojo had been used as the wrapper of choice until tobacco diseases
and mold brought the tobacco to the brink of extinction.

Today, Punch is bringing Corojo tobacco back to its former glory, thanks to the famous Cuban seeds
that have been cultivated on a 650-acre farm in Honduras by the Eiroa family.

The cigar is made with Honduran-grown, Cuban seed Corojo wrapper and binder, and its filler is
comprised of Honduran-grown Habano and Cuban-seed Corojo tobacco.

John Hakim, brand manager for Punch said, “The Eiroa family has perfected Corojo tobacco and we
are excited to bring it to life with Punch Golden Era. This tobacco delivers a silky, golden wrapper, a
binder with ideal combustibility and a filler that produces unique spicy notes and a spectrum of
nuances. We’re especially pleased to make a true Corojo experience available for cigar lover to enjoy
any time the occasion calls for a rich and rewarding smoke.”

Mellow-to-medium-bodied, Punch Golden Era is elegant and refined. The cigar balances notes of
earth, cream and nuts.

Punch Golden Era is hand made at Fabrica de Puros Aladino SA in Honduras. The cigars will be
presented in 20-count boxes and will ship to retailers on May 1. The line will launch with three sizes.

Robusto (5” x 50); SRP per cigar $9.99
Toro (6” x 52); SRP per cigar $10.49
Churchill (7” x 48); SRP per cigar $10.99

El Septimo Expands its Direct Sales Force Team

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El Septimo Expands its Direct Sales Force Team

Franklin Kleckner Leaves Rocky Patel to Join El Septimo Cigars

 | Source: El Septimo Geneva 

Los Angeles, CA, March 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — El Septimo has hired seasoned Sales Executive, Franklin Kleckner, to support its continuous sales growth and expansion throughout US retail centers. Franklin Kleckner will be joining El Septimo beginning on April 3, 2023 as Sales Manager of the Eastern Seaboard. His territories will include South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, D.C., West Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York.

Franklin has a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Marketing from George Mason University in Virginia and has spent the past 6 years working for Rocky Patel Cigars as a Head Trainer and Regional Sales Manager in Virginia and the Carolinas.

Zaya Younan, CEO of El Septimo Cigars, says, “We continue to grow globally by taking market share from all leading cigar companies, and in preparation for this continuous growth, we need to expand our direct sales force team to better service our retailers”

Franklin Kleckner adds, “I’m thrilled to be joining El Septimo, a company that is reinventing the industry and producing cigars that everyone is talking about. It is very difficult to smoke any other cigar once you’ve had an El Septimo. Not only are their cigars and accessories world-class, but their growth is something that I have never seen before. After experiencing the unique layers of complexity and refinement that El Septimo cigars have to offer, I knew I had to go on this journey with El Septimo and I’m excited to share this experience with enthusiasts across the Eastern Seaboard.”

Younan finishes, “We welcome Franklin Kleckner to our team and are looking forward to his contributions towards this luxury brand of cigars and accessories. We will be announcing other hires, as we believe 2023 will be our biggest growth year yet.”

El Septimo is continuing to look for industry veterans experienced in the areas of sales, customer service, marketing, and production management.

About Younan Company

Younan Company is a global private equity firm that specializes in acquisitions and management of various assets and companies in the luxury consumer space. The company’s strategy is to build a portfolio of luxury products and properties, and lifestyle companies and services. Today, Younan Company is recognized as a global luxury brand with more than $4.8 billion in assets under management through its Younan Properties and La Maison Younan. La Maison Younan owns and manages luxury hotels and resorts in France and Portugal, including Château de Beauvois, Hôtel Saint-Martin, Château Le Prieuré, Alexandra Palace, Domaine de Vaugouard, and Château de la Perrière, as well as Malibu Foz Hotel and Beach Resort located in Figueira da Foz, Portugal, four French golf courses including Golf des Forges, Golf du Petit Chêne,  Golf d ’Avrillé, and Golf de Vaugouard, two vineyards in Saint-Émilion including Château La Croix Younan and Château Zaya, El Septimo Premium Cigars & 7 Global Distribution Tobacco Wholesale, and MPA Studio de Création  Design Agency in Paris.







Franklin Kleckner Leaves Rocky Patel to Join El Septimo Cigars






Alexandra Younan
El Septimo Geneva
8187039600
AYounan@younancompany.com









															

		
		
	







ABOUT PCA


Founded in 1933, the Premium Cigar Association (PCA) is the oldest, largest, and most active trade association representing and assisting retailers, manufacturers and suppliers of premium tobacco products. PCA is a not-for-profit trade association whose mission is the grow specialty tobacco retailing.


 


PRESS CONTACT


Scott Pearce, PCA Executive Director


202-849-6042


scott@premiumcigars.org