With FDA guidelines looming that can affect the future of the Premium Cigar industry, and make it tough for the small guy to succeed, Patrick Vivalo has announced that he is leaving Rocky Patel to launch his own company.
Vivalo had the taste of a brand launch under Rocky Patel with the launch of Vivalo Serie Exclusivo. His last day will be on February 27th with Rocky Patel and he will officially launch Vivalo Cigars on March 1st.
Vivalo began his career in the cigar industry in 1997, and joined Rocky Patel in 2002.
According to a post on his Facebook page, “I have made the decision to resign from my position from Rocky Patel Premium Cigars in order to pursue my dream of starting my own cigar company. The people I have worked with have been like family to me and as hard as it is for me to leave, I am very excited on the beginning of this next chapter of my life. When I began my career in the cigar industry back in 1997, I knew this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I am truly blessed to be able to say that I love what I do and do what I love. I have made great friends in this great industry and some I even consider to be family. I owe a lot to my mentors who helped groom me to the person I am today, and that is something that I will always appreciate. With this new chapter in my life, I am looking forward to continuing the relationships I have made as well as create new ones. My last day with Rocky will be Friday February 27th and on March 1st I will be doing business as Vivalo Cigars. I believe with my passion, dedication and my attention to detail that I will succeed as a cigar maker. Again, I can’t express my gratitude enough towards those who have paved the way for me to be the person I am today.”
