Cigar Shop POS System: Must-Have Features + Top Providers

Written by Gina Obert | Oct 19, 2022

Owning a cigar shop is nothing like running a regular retail store — so why would you rely on the same generic point of sale (POS) software to do the job?

Whether you’re planning to open a new cigar shop or you’ve been in the tobacco retail industry for years, you need a specialty POS system to help you manage cigar inventory, stay compliant, and build customer relationships.

In this blog, we’ll share everything you need to know about cigar shop POS systems, including must-have features and top providers.

Essential Cigar Shop POS System Features

Running a cigar shop means tackling unique challenges — from protecting your tobacco license to tracking inventory by the case or individual cigar.

If your POS system isn’t designed for these use cases, you’ll have to spend valuable time on manual processes, rely on patchwork solutions, or pay for expensive add-on integrations.

That’s why we recommend opting for a purpose-built cigar shop POS system. Here are the features that set specialty solutions apart from generic retail software:

Age verification: Prevent underage tobacco sales by prompting cashiers to check ID for every single cigar sale. Invest in an ID scanner for faster, more secure checkouts.

Carton-pack tracking: Simplify cigar inventory management by tracking and selling cigars by the case/carton, or by the individual unit.

Tobacco scan data reporting: Take advantage of manufacturer rebates by turning your sales records into tobacco scan data reports.

Compliance-friendly reports: Stay prepared for licensure audits by digitizing invoices, inventory records, and sales reports.

Cigar label printing: Print custom barcode labels for each cigar to ensure fast, accurate checkouts.

Marketing tools: Attract and retain customers while staying compliant with tobacco retail laws through built-in customer loyalty, email, and SMS marketing tools.

Features aren’t the only things to consider — you also have to look at what each provider offers in terms of support and training. Don’t forget to ask about hardware requirements, payment processing options, and any add-on fees!

4 Cigar Shop POS Systems To Check Out

Now that you know what a cigar shop POS system can do, you’re ready to start shopping for one.

Navigating the world of POS providers can be intimidating, so we’ve curated this list of providers that offer the tools you need to run your cigar shop. Keep reading to learn about their features, reviews, and pricing.

1. Cigars POS: Best for Most Cigar Shops

Cigars POS is our number-one pick for cigar shops and lounges. This all-in-one system is designed specifically for tobacco retailers, so it includes all the features you need right out of the box. Plus, Cigars POS offers 24/7 support at no additional cost from technicians who understand your business model.

Top features	Real-time inventory tracking with carton-pack logic AI-powered invoice scanning and purchase order creation Built-in customer loyalty program High-risk payment processing options
Reviews	“One of my favorite aspects of working with Cigars POS has been the customer service. They’ve been very helpful and supportive throughout the setup and go-live process.” — Craig, Tinder Box
Pricing	Tiered pricing model starting at $59/month

2. KORONA POS: Best for Marketing

KORONA POS is an all-in-one POS solution designed for retailers in all industries. We’ve included KORONA POS in this list because of its powerful marketing and customer loyalty features.

Top features	Customer relationship management (CRM) software Points-based loyalty program Email and SMS marketing tools Flexible promotion options
Reviews	“We have been using KORONA POS mainly for handling daily transactions and tracking stock, which has been a smooth experience for us…On the other hand, some parts of the system could be more user-friendly, especially when trying to explore features beyond the basics.” — Amy, Trustpilot
Pricing	Tiered pricing model ranging from $59/month to $99/month

3. FTx POS: Best for Security

FTx POS offers POS solutions designed for liquor stores, smoke shops, and convenience stores. Their software includes the features you need to protect your business and tobacco retail license from threats like underage sales and internal theft.

Top features	AI-powered facial recognition for age verification Tobacco scan data reporting Employee role permissions
Reviews	“Since transitioning to FasTrax, we’ve gained better control over our inventory, access to all necessary reports, and improved the overall management of our entire company.” — Wild Bill’s Tobacco
Pricing	Tiered pricing model starting at $99/month

4. TORO POS: Best for E-Commerce

TORO POS is another tobacco shop-specific solution. TORO promises feature-rich software and support via WhatsApp from tobacco industry experts to help you grow your cigar shop. Plus, they offer a unique feature: e-commerce integration specifically designed for smoke shops.

Top features	Tobacco-compliant e-commerce integration Humidor management integration Real-time inventory and sales tracking
Reviews	“TORO has brought our store into the 21st century and created a bright future for us. Looking forward to the e-commerce.” — Josh, Third Street Cigars
Pricing	One-time $5,000 payment + $119/month

Choose the Best POS System for Your Cigar Shop

Looking for a POS system that checks all the right boxes? You can’t go wrong with our top pick: Cigars POS.

Built by and for tobacco retailers, Cigars POS includes all the features you need to launch, manage, and grow your shop — including age verification, AI-powered inventory management, built-in marketing tools, and more.

See it in action by scheduling a live, personalized demo with one of our cigar shop experts today.

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