News: Jim Colucci Joins Gurkha as President and COO

I know this news is a week or so old, but I just received the press release today.  I’ve never actually met Mr. Colucci, but I was kind of surprised to hear about him taking on this larger role after hearing interviews with him after he retired and joined Sindicato (a small brand which is owned by a group of retailers), stating that he enjoyed the relaxed pace. obviously, Gurkha is a larger brand, but I can’t imagine the rank and file consumer will see much of a difference in this news, except maybe Sindicato will have a wider distribution.  Side note:  I smoked a couple Gurkha cigars this week and there wasn’t a darned thing wrong with the to I smoked, a Cellar Reserve 15 and a Ghost. Both were excellent cigars! I may rant about people bagging on various brands in my Sunday post…

INDUSTRY VETERAN JIM COLUCCI JOINS GURKHA CIGARS AS PRESIDENT AND COO

GURKHA SALES FORCE WILL NOW REPRESENT SINDICATO CIGARS

Jim Colucci of Sindicato Cigars has been named the Chief Operating Officer and President of Gurkha Cigars.  Colucci is now responsible for the company’s day-to-day operations bringing his more than 40 years of industry knowledge to the position.

“I look forward to working with the Gurkha team and evolving what is already a great cigar company,” Colucci said.  “I will remain as President and CEO of Sindicato, which will continue to be a stand alone company, shipping and invoicing its products to all customers.”

Colucci’s addition to the company was born out of conversations regarding the possibility of Gurkha Cigars becoming the National Sales Team representing Sindicato Cigar Brands.  Those conversations, which began months ago, led to further talks regarding Colucci joining Gurkha Cigars therefore allowing Kaizad to devote more time to his other business ventures.

“Jim Colucci is a very well respected cigar industry veteran,” said Kaizad Hansotia, Gurkha’s Founder and CEO. “For years he has been both my friend and mentor and now he is the COO and President of Gurkha Cigars. With the addition of Colucci’s industry knowledge and business acumen Gurkha can only continue to grow and excel,” he added.

Colucci has been president and CEO of Sindicato for over 6 years.  Previously, Colucci was with Altadis USA for more than 35 years as Executive Vice President of marketing and sales for their mass market and premium cigars.

Gurkha Cigars are known throughout the world for their premium and luxurious cigars, so it’s no surprise that they are the most sought-after cigars around the globe. Gurkha produces millions of cigars per year that are sold in more than 70 countries worldwide. And while Gurkha is known for its exclusivity, it has an impressive array of 250 brands of flawlessly handcrafted, premium cigars created in a variety of strengths, tasting profiles, and price-points. No matter what your taste, there’s a Gurkha cigar that’s perfect for your palate. For additional information visit www.gurkhacigars.com.