The History Behind Cigar Bundles

Cigar bundles are a popular packaging option today for cigar enthusiasts seeking quality at an affordable price, but their origins have a fascinating history tied to the evolution of the cigar industry. The concept of cigar bundles dates back to the early 20th century, when they became a practical and economical solution for both manufacturers and consumers.

 

The Early Beginnings of Cigar Bundles

In the early days of the cigar industry, cigars were often packaged in elaborate wooden boxes, which were expensive and labor-intensive to produce. These boxes served not only as packaging but also as a way for manufacturers to brand their cigars with attractive designs and logos. However, the high cost of packaging was eventually reflected in the price of cigars, making them less accessible to budget-conscious consumers.

To address this, manufacturers began experimenting with simpler, less costly packaging options. Thus, the idea of a “bundle” was born. Rather than encasing cigars in costly boxes, cigars would be bundled together in groups of 20, 25, or 50 and wrapped in cellophane or plastic. This reduced packaging cost significantly and allowed cigars to be sold at lower prices.

Popularization During Economic Hardships

The popularity of cigar bundles grew especially during times of economic hardship, such as the Great Depression and post-World War II, when people were looking to save money on everyday luxuries. Many cigar manufacturers noticed that consumers were willing to sacrifice fancy packaging for a more affordable price. Bundles became a practical way to offer quality cigars to a broader audience without the added cost of ornate boxes and branding materials.

 

The “Second” or “Bundle” Cigar Trend

By the mid-20th century, cigar bundles had evolved into a unique niche within the industry. Manufacturers began using bundles as a way to sell “seconds”—cigars that didn’t meet the strict visual standards required for boxed cigars but were still fully smokeable and often of similar quality. These cigars might have minor cosmetic imperfections, like color inconsistencies or slight blemishes, but they performed just as well as their higher-priced counterparts.

Selling seconds or “factory throwouts” in bundles allowed manufacturers to make use of cigars that would otherwise go unsold, offering consumers quality cigars at discounted rates. This trend led to the idea that bundles could represent great value for customers, even if they weren’t visually perfect.

 

The Bundle Revolution in the 1960s and 1970s

In the 1960s and 1970s, cigar bundles gained even greater traction as the popularity of cigar smoking increased in the U.S. Major manufacturers began producing bundle-exclusive lines, where cigars were made specifically to be sold in bundles rather than boxes. These bundle cigars were not seconds; they were high-quality cigars made with lower-cost tobaccos or simplified manufacturing processes to keep prices competitive. This shift was significant, as it marked bundles as a distinct product line rather than a second-choice option.

 

Bundles in the Premium Cigar Market

By the 1990s, as the premium cigar boom hit, cigar bundles were redefined once more. While premium cigar boxes remained popular, bundles became an appealing option for both new cigar smokers looking to explore different types and experienced aficionados seeking everyday smokes without breaking the bank. Many respected brands started offering bundle versions of their popular cigars, often using similar tobaccos and rolling methods but with less elaborate packaging.

 

Modern Bundle Cigars

Today, cigar bundles are widely available in a variety of qualities, from budget-friendly everyday smokes to premium offerings. They continue to appeal to customers who appreciate value and quality over fancy packaging. While some bundles still include seconds or factory rejects, many bundle cigars are crafted intentionally to provide a specific flavor profile and smoking experience. This keeps bundles a strong option in an ever-competitive cigar market.

Cigar bundles have a long and evolving history in the industry, shaped by economic pressures, changing consumer preferences, and the quest to deliver quality cigars at accessible prices. From their origins as an affordable alternative to boxed cigars to their current status as a staple for both novice and seasoned smokers, bundles have proven their place in the cigar world. For many, bundles represent a savvy choice that offers premium enjoyment without the premium price.