Back in November 2022, La Aurora announced the formation of La Aurora USA LLC (LUSA). The new entity will assume sales and marketing efforts for La Aurora’s cigar brands in the U.S. This month marks the official launch of LUSA, and with that move the transition from former distributor Miami Cigar and Company has officially taken place. Concurrently, LUSA has announced its team handling sales and operations going forward.

“La Aurora was founded in 1903 with a humble creed to work for the common good, maintaining integrity, authenticity, frankness, perseverance, honesty, and a passion for excellence,” said Guillermo León, President of La Aurora. “Today La Aurora USA sets forth our ‘New Dawn’ in the U.S. premium cigar market and in our consumer’s humidor. With our in-house distribution and expanded team, we will bring that same level of quality that you find in every facet of La Aurora cigars and continue to build long-lasting relationships with retailers and consumers across the states.”

When La Aurora USA LLC was announced back in November, it was also announced that Ed McKenna would be the CEO for the new entity, and John Ferrigan would be Director of Sales. Since then, there have been several additions to the team.

• Greyci Tineo, Director of Operations:  Responsible for overseeing all of La Aurora USA’s supply chain logistics, accounts management, and customer service.
• William Marante, National Events Manager, Account Executive: Marante returns to La Aurora and will be in charge of developing in-store event plans for sales; this includes new product introductions, and managing trade show and event marketing efforts across the country. Working in conjunction with factory personnel, Marante will coordinate ambassador/master blender visits for marketing events. He is also the account executive primarily for the Florida market and accounts across the East Coast.
• Dominico Magaña, Account Executive (Texas, Colorado, and Oklahoma) Responsible for leading the Texas, Colorado, and Oklahoma regions with a focus on building and managing account relationships, driving quality distribution, and leading education at the wholesale, retail, and consumer level.
• George C. Zaglifa, Account Executive (California, Nevada, Arizona, and the rest of the West): Responsible for leading the California, Nevada, Arizona, and West regions with a focus on building and managing account relationships, driving quality distribution, and leading education at the wholesale, retail, and consumer level.
• John Gaglio, Brand Manager Will provide insights while developing strategies and tactics to compete effectively in the marketplace. He is also the lead on all product management in support of the sales team.
• John Ferrigan, Director of Sales: In addition to his role as Director of Sales, Ferrigan will also be responsible for managing the Central Region and key accounts at a national level.

The company says that states and regions not mentioned will be handled by its Miami Office.