West Tampa Tobacco Company

West Tampa Tobacco Co. quickly became a breakout force in the boutique space after launching in 2022. Founded by industry veterans Rick Rodriguez and Gus Martinez, the brand builds on more than 25 years of blending experience. Rick’s grandparents were respected master rollers in Cuba who moved to the United States in 1953 and settled in West Tampa, carrying their craft and a generation of stories right along with them. Growing up surrounded by the sights and stories of classic cigar factories inspired Rick to learn the craft directly alongside influential icons like Benji Menendez and Ernesto Perez-Carrillo. After creating massive hits like Flathead for CAO, he teamed up with co-founder Gus Martinez, whose sharp marketing background had also shaped some of the industry’s most recognizable brands. Together, they built a company with one clear goal in mind: craft sticks rooted in deep tradition that speak directly to a savvy, modern audience.