Quality Importers Trading Company announced the acquisition of XIKAR Inc. This will create the largest premium cigar accessory supplier in the United States, if not the world. Scott Almsberger and Kurt Van Keppel will continue to run operations for XIKAR as minority partners in the new enterprise. They will also assume Executive Vice President roles respectively. Scott and Kurt will both report directly to Michael Cellucci who will continue as President and Chief Operating Officer. Mike Giordano remains as Chief Executive Officer.
“On behalf of the QI family of businesses, we are excited to announce the acquisition of XIKAR, Inc., which marks our largest and most impactful transaction since our inception 18 years ago. This is a transformational event in the cigar accessory category, creating an industry-leading partnership with enormous growth potential in existing and new markets. Unlike all of our previous acquisitions, XIKAR contributes a coordinated and experienced team of professionals, as well as a set of high quality, branded products and services, altogether enhancing the value proposition for our retail partners. The pure enthusiasm we have witnessed from Kurt and Scott to join the QI team has been inspiring for all of us. As with all transitions of this kind, there is much work to be done, and we will keep our focus on executing in the most effective manner for our customers and employees. Along the way, together, we will continue making strategic acquisitions to fulfill our mission to be the most comprehensive supplier of smoking accessories in the industry worldwide.” said Mike Giordano, CEO.
Kurt Van Keppel added, “We at XIKAR are extremely pleased to partner with Mike Giordano and Michael Cellucci at QI, to expand the global reach of both companies’ products and services. Through this process, my respect and admiration for Mike Giordano and the company he has built grew exponentially. Michael Cellucci was a great hire by Mike. His experience, strategic vision and natural leadership skills have really helped us bring the vision of combining these two great companies into focus.”
“I have a lot of respect for the company Kurt and Scott have built. They have established a strong portfolio of market-leading products,” said Michael Cellucci. “We are excited for the combination of these two companies. This is a perfect marriage, leveraging the strong brand positioning of XIKAR, and full services of QI. Our goal is to deliver a single all-encompassing solution to our retail partners focused on aggressive sales planning, innovative product development, and outstanding customer service.”
Quality Importers is a leading source for product and service procurement, from general importing and distribution to fully customized solutions. Catering to retailers, distributors and manufacturers, delivering quality, excellence and value. If you are a cigar consumer, you have undoubtedly encountered their humidors, humidification systems, and accessories. For more information about QI, visit www.qualityimporters.com.
XIKAR is a world leader in cigar accessories such as lighters, cutters, storage containers, and more. XIKAR sells cigar accessories under the XIKAR brand in thousands of retail locations around the world. For more information about XIKAR, visit www.xikar.com