The International Premium Cigar and Pipe Retailers Association (IPCPR) is reporting a positive start to the pivotal end of 2017 buying season. The assessment was made as a result of a survey made to its retail members on buying patterns that occurred from Thursday, November 23 (Thanksgiving Day), through Sunday, November 26.

The organization reported a response of 68 U.S. based retailers, including some owners that provided answers covering their multi-sales operation. While a relatively small sample set, it does provide an indicator on how the end of year buying season is going for the retail segment in the cigar industry. The survey consisted of three questions asking retailers to compare sales for the extended Thanksgiving weekend in 2017 to the previous year’s sales.

The survey results indicated an increase in sales volume by 56% of the respondents. While most retailers did see a larger increase in foot traffic, indications are that the customers who did visit shops increased spending. The survey questions did not ask for quantifiable data in terms of sales transactions, customer counts, or spending – simply a relative comparison of this year compared to last year.

The three questions and the results gathered were:

Was your premium tobacco store(s)’ total sales volume over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend up, down or relatively flat compared to the same period in 2016?

Up 56% (38)
Down 18% (12)
About the Same 26% (18)

Was your premium tobacco store(s)’ store traffic over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend up, down or relatively flat compared to the same period in 2016?

Up 43% (29)
Down 19% (13)
About the Same 38% (26)

Was your premium tobacco store(s)’ average spend per customer over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend up, down or relatively flat compared to the same period in 2016?

Up 49% (33)
Down 16% (11)
About the Same 35% (24)