Overview
Tinder Box International is the only national retail chain of franchised premium cigar, pipe, gift and collectible stores in North America. With over 75 years of experience and premier locations in regional malls, high-end power strip centers, and freestanding locations in 24 states, Tinder Box is a well-known and respected brand name. Our stores have set the standard for excellence in our industry. With our consistently high levels of products, knowledge, customer service and consumer satisfaction, our customers display a loyalty rarely found among shoppers. Simply put, they love our stores.
Products & Services
In 1928, Edward Kolpin opened the first Tinder Box store in Santa Monica, CA. Mr. Kolpin began selling tobacco and pipes in his family’s pharmacy in Santa Monica. He leased the soda fountain area in his father’s store and began to sell pipes and his own custom blends of tobacco. As time went on and demand for his quality tobacco products grew, Mr. Kolpin ventured out on his own and opened the first Tinder Box store in 1928.
Mr. Kolpin ran his original store 78 years. His recent passing in April 2007 left a legacy of service, dedication and passion for cigars and pipes. Ed Kolpin catered to the tobacco needs of such Hollywood personalities as Marilyn Monroe, George Burns, Yul Brynner, Clark Gable, and Bing Crosby. His custom made pipes can be seen gracing Hollywood movies and on the cover of Bing Crosby’s classic albums.
As business grew, Mr. Kolpin decided to franchise his Tinder Box stores. The first one was opened in Hawaii and this represented one of the first franchises in American History. Within years the number of stores across the country climbed to 148. Under the leadership of Ed Kolpin and his two sons, Tinder Box became a powerhouse.
Mr. Kolpin ran his original store 78 years. His recent passing in April 2007 left a legacy of service, dedication and passion for cigars and pipes. Ed Kolpin catered to the tobacco needs of such Hollywood personalities as Marilyn Monroe, George Burns, Yul Brynner, Clark Gable, and Bing Crosby. His custom made pipes can be seen gracing Hollywood movies and on the cover of Bing Crosby’s classic albums.
As business grew, Mr. Kolpin decided to franchise his Tinder Box stores. The first one was opened in Hawaii and this represented one of the first franchises in American History. Within years the number of stores across the country climbed to 148. Under the leadership of Ed Kolpin and his two sons, Tinder Box became a powerhouse.
Why Tinder Box International?
- Over 75 Years Of Experience In Our Industry
- Protected Territories
- Unique and Inviting Store Design
- Low Royalty Fees
- Exclusive Tobaccos, Cigars, Pipes, Gifts and Accessories
- Quality Product Lines
- Excellent Vendor Relationships
- Site Location, Lease Negotiation And Initial Store Lay-Out And Design Assistance
- Classroom And In-Store Training Programs
- Pre-Opening, Grand Opening and On-Going Assistance
- Merchandising Seminars, Product Information Updates and Newsletters
- Point of Sale Systems
- Display and Signage Support
- Outside Sales Programs
- Corporate Gift Programs
- Web Site Availability For Franchisees
- Franchisee Controls Store Product Mix
- Repeat Customers
- A Track Record of Integrity, Courtesy and Commitment
- Multiple Store Ownership Encouraged
- Area Development Licensing Availabilities
Are You a Good Fit for Tinder Box International?
- Franchise candidate should be energetic, friendly, outgoing, and enjoy dealing with the public.
- Franchise candidate should have the initial cash required for the initial franchise fee in liquid assets and have the ability to finance the additional investment amount.
- Franchise candidate should have the ability to make a decision about a Tinder Box franchise opportunity within 60 to 90 days.
- Franchise candidate should have an interest in the industry and the Tinder Box concept.
Investment
- Start-Up Investment: $118,675.00 - $857,300.00
- Recommendations are Provided to Secure Financing With Outside Lending Institutions
- Initial Franchise Fee: $ 30,000.00
