Design VS Cigar industry – Part 1.
The Impact of Industrial Design on the Cigar Industry
Introduction
Industrial design is one of the basic tools that develops, defines and shapes the identity, commerciality and functionality in the field of consuming products.
In the cigar industry – where luxury, tradition and basic sensations reign, indelible experiences are created – industrial design has influenced and significantly changed the evolution of the industry in all commercial brands and in their productology.
From the evolution of humidors and ergonomic and design identity of cigar cutters, the aesthetic and designing development of cigar accessories – such as cigar ashtrays and cigar holders – the evolution of cigar bands to their packaging, this industry has managed to develop and modernize at all levels.
While maintaining its vast heritage it has attracted new consumer identities that are increasingly looking for new aesthetic and design proposals that, combined with new directions in sensual experiences, lead to a new approach to purchasing power.
Below we will explore how design has changed and influenced all levels of the industry which has to do with manufacturing, packaging, branding and even the user experience to the point where it has managed to differentiate the entire market.
1. The Intersection of Tradition and Innovation
If we look carefully at the history of cigars we will see that it is connected with craftsmanship and ritual. The cigar as an exclusive product is almost always handmade and concepts such as uniqueness, quality, luxury represent its basic structure.
Industrial design has managed to balance its traditional identity in a correct and simple way, inspiring modern guiding structures to meet all the demanding needs of new consumers.
Historically limiting the production of cigars only to artisanal methods paid little attention to the peripheral elements that made up and complemented this industry, such as the design approach, since the cigar itself was always the focus.
As the industry grew and began to face increasing global competition the need to differentiate core structures through design became imperative and critical.
Through a hybrid approach industrial designers incorporated contemporary techniques and a new aesthetic into cigar culture, where the combination of functionality and storytelling ensured the most traditional brands kept up, relevant, growing and differentiated in new evolving markets.
2. The Evolution of Cigar Packaging
a. Boxes and Tubes
One of the first changes brought by the design which is quickly apparent is the packaging of the cigars.
Initially they were simple wooden boxes that had functionality and were clean. These evolved into complex objects of worship, luxury and a perfect design approach. The introduction of luxury materials internally, such as hinges, inlays functional additives sustainable materials, special finishes but also materials that in their entirety had an environmental origin.
This design conveyed the identity of each company in a simple and comprehensible way, ensuring the brand's position in the market with efficiency and success.
The aluminum and glass tubes were designed with a minimal approach and a specific style for each brand. They became immediately popular because they provided high aesthetics, their individual transport, keeping them fresh while protecting each cigar from moisture and natural or external damage.
b. Branding and Visual Appeal
The close collaboration between designers and graphic artists ensures the correct performance of visual communication in relation to the correct and aligned story of each brand. Basic elements of this communication such as font, color, texture and logo are harmonized in this logic and create iconic packaging.
They are easily recognized and their luxurious construction combined with their emblematic design achieve the legibility of each brand.
On the other hand, limited edition packaging has an innovative design, meeting the need for aesthetic desire and exclusivity.
3. The Design & Branding of cigar bands
The cigar band is an exciting journey and blend of high art, heritage and strategic marketing.
It is a small ring of paper wrapped around the cigar on one side. It communicates the logo of the cigar manufacturer, its trademark, the production line and several times displays limited edition indicators.
It is not just a decorative element but a key piece of communication for the consumer that brings about legibility and branding. It achieves the distinction of brands in a competitive market but also protects them from counterfeiting through complex designs to avoid fake imitations.
Α. Visual Identity
Logos and Crests: Often decorated with motifs that suggest Royal descent or heritage descent of the maker's family, eg shields, crowns, medals.
Typography: Classic fonts are commonly used (serif), but especially modern cigars use modern or custom letter options.
Colors: Colors of gold, red or black signify and traditionally refer to luxury and power, while white
and cream represent purity and elegance.
Foil & Embossing: Gives a premium feel of luxury and a charm to the design identity.
Β. Storytelling
The ability to communicate heritage, rarity or local authenticity eg "Hecho a mano en Nicaragua".
Limited editions usually use vintage lines, numbered belts, specially designed markings that refer to place names or seasonal colors.
C. Differentiation
The distinction between production lines or tobacco blends within the same brand eg Maduro vs. Connecticut. Also special releases, historic collaborations between two brands and anniversary editions of old or new blends.
D. Collectibility & Brand Loyalty
Too many smokers collect cigar wrappers. Limited editions or rare labels designed by artists create a sense of cult, loyalty and exclusivity.
To be continued (Part 2.)
Important Notice
"This article features names, historical events, external links and additional references about the impact of industrial design on the cigar industry (Design VS Cigar industry – Part 1.)
If any of the prominent figures mentioned in this article do not wish to be included, please contact via email
Edited by Marios Krokos
Industrial designer