Scandinavian Tobacco Group (STG) is one of the largest cigar companies in the world, with a vast portfolio that includes General Cigar, Forged Cigar Co., and many well-known brands such as Macanudo, CAO, Punch, Cohiba (non-Cuban), Partagas (non-Cuban), and Alec Bradley (acquired later). STG’s corporate ownership brings scale, distribution muscle, and resources to the Nicaraguan and Dominican production landscape.
While STG operates at a different scale than independent boutiques, its factories and sourcing operations in Nicaragua contribute significantly to the overall capacity and quality of the region. The company’s brands span a wide range of price points and flavor profiles, making premium cigars accessible to a broad audience while also supporting some of the industry’s most iconic names. STG’s presence illustrates the globalization and consolidation trends that coexist with the vibrant independent scene in Estelí and beyond.