Nick Perdomo at the Light ‘em Up Lounge
In this compelling conversation, Nick Perdomo shares the philosophy and discipline behind one of the most successful family-owned cigar companies in the world. He reflects on Perdomo’s legacy, the values inherited from his father, and the standards that guide every cigar they produce. The interview explores factory operations, the importance of vertical integration, and the Perdomo approach to consistency, quality control, and market trust. With honesty and clarity, Nick offers insights into leadership, customer loyalty, and what it means to uphold a tradition of excellence in every detail.
What makes Perdomo Cigars different?
At the heart of Perdomo’s success is discipline and consistency. Nick emphasizes that the company is vertically integrated — from seed to box — allowing total control over the entire process. While many brands outsource or focus primarily on marketing, Perdomo does everything in-house. This ensures quality, repeatability, and authenticity. The company doesn’t chase trends or gimmicks. Instead, it remains focused on delivering cigars that perform exactly as intended — every single time.
How important is vertical integration?
It’s everything. Vertical integration gives Perdomo control over the tobacco from the moment it’s planted to the time it's lit. Nick explains that owning the farms, curing barns, fermentation processes, aging rooms, and box factories is what guarantees reliability. There’s no guessing, no compromise. It’s also what allows Perdomo to deliver cigars that remain affordable while using only top-quality materials. That commitment, he explains, is rooted in respecting the customer — giving them more than what they paid for.
What principles guide quality control at the factory?
Nick is obsessed with consistency. Every roller in the factory is held to precise standards. Cigars are draw-tested, color-matched, and inspected thoroughly before they ever leave the facility. There are no shortcuts. He speaks proudly about the high retention rate among workers and the culture of excellence that permeates the factory floor. Everyone is aligned around one mission: making sure that when a Perdomo cigar is picked up, it always delivers a flawless experience.
How does tradition influence the Perdomo brand?
Nick carries the legacy of his father proudly. From humble beginnings in Cuba to rebuilding a dream in the U.S., the Perdomo story is one of resilience and discipline. His father’s military background instilled a work ethic and sense of order that still defines the company today. That legacy shows in every part of the process — from dress code and punctuality in the factory to meticulous craftsmanship in every cigar. The brand isn’t just about cigars — it’s about doing things the right way, every time.
What is your view on trends and the current cigar market?
Nick doesn’t follow fads. He believes the market is oversaturated with blends chasing trends, often forgetting the fundamentals. Perdomo stays grounded in what works: balance, performance, and quality. He points out that many customers are loyal not just because of marketing, but because of trust. When people light a Perdomo, they know what they’re getting. That reliability is what keeps them coming back, and that’s more powerful than any trend.
How does Perdomo foster loyalty among consumers?
Nick speaks directly to the value of respecting the consumer. He believes in giving more than expected, whether it’s aging tobacco longer, using better wrappers, or keeping prices stable despite inflation. That philosophy has earned the brand a dedicated following. He often hears from customers who have smoked Perdomo for decades — a sign that loyalty is earned through consistency and quality, not hype. Perdomo isn’t trying to be everything to everyone — it’s focused on being the best at what it does.
Discover Premium Cigars
The values discussed—balance, tradition, and intention—are reflected in the collection available at Light ’em Up Humidor. For those seeking more than just a smoke, this is where craftsmanship lives.
Browse the curated selection of premium cigars
It was with great pleasure and honor that we welcomed Nick Perdomo on the show as our special guest.
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Light em up,
Reinhard
Sensory expert, cigar passionado, and host of the Light ‘em Up Lounge
