BUFFALO, NY – Buffalo Cigars’ employee Ed Kuffel has passed a rigorous exam and now holds a professional certification as a Certified Retail Tobacconist (CRT). Kuffel is one of only 3 CRT in the state west of Albany, NY. CRT are the world’s most prestigious and credentialed professional tobacconsists.

Certified Retail Tobacconist is a highly revered professional certification in the cigar industry. To receive a certification, CRT must work a minimum of 500 hours in a cigar store setting and excel in the following courses at Tobacconist University: Tobacco, Accoutrements, Tasting and Retail Service. An apprenticeship is required to study the curriculum at Tobacco University. CRT are the only professional retail tobacconists in the world who have proven their knowledge and committed to a professional Code of Ethics & Standards.

“This is a great accomplishment and we are very proud of Ed for his tremendous achievement,” says store owner Paul Eusanio. “This accreditation adds tremendous value to our stores. We are excited for the wealth of knowledge he will bring to both of our retail locations.”

Kuffel works primarily at the Amherst Buffalo Cigars store, located at 7032 Transit Rd., Williamsville NY 14221. 

For information on certification, visit tobacconistuniversity.org.