Ventura Cigar Company, the premium cigar company under Kretek International has confirmed a series of layoffs has occurred in its sales organization. The reason for the layoffs given was the need to restructure its sales organization “in advance of new FDA regulations expected to hit the tobacco industry in upcoming months.”

The company also said it was not going anywhere – essentially rebuffing reports that surfaced last week stating Kretek would be phasing out Ventura. The company stated in a press release, “In a continually evolving environment, Ventura Cigar Company, through Kretek International remains a strong and profitable company and will continue to deliver high quality products and service to our valued consumers and customers.”

Michael Giannini, General Manager of Ventura Cigar Company said, “Making tough decisions has kept Kretek International strong throughout the decades, and I commend the company for recognizing the changing market landscape and taking necessary steps to remain an industry leader. We are grateful for the contributions of our employees and wish everyone well as they continue their journeys.”