Jordan said he “chose that name as a reminder and inspiration to individuals to claim their empire no matter what field they are in and strive to be the best at it.” Imperios developed from Jordan’s passion for business and cigars.
“As a child, I had an entrepreneurial spirit, operating my own businesses, from landscaping and shoveling snow to buying and selling collectible items,” Jordan said. “I was learning how to structure a business along the way and as I grew the ventures changed. While attending school in Florida, I was introduced to the tradition and rituals of cigars.”
By the time Jordan completed school and moved back to Detroit, he had become a cigar enthusiast and decided to develop what he believed to be “the perfect cigar.” Thus began his journey, which spanned over three years and consisted of a great deal of research, travel, tastings and trial and error before he finally created a blend he was completely satisfied with.
Starting a cigar brand was a major challenge, especially considering that many cigar manufacturers are of Caribbean, South American or Central American origin and have been owned and operated by families for several generations.
In fact, Imperios is only the second African American owned cigar manufacturer, the first being Don Abram Harris who introduced the Don Abram Harris cigar line at the 76th Annual International Premium Cigar and Pipe Retailers Association (IPCPR) Trade Show in Las Vegas, July 13-18, 2008.
Jordan has faced the reality that this is an industry that is not easily penetrated, saying, “It’s a very tight, family oriented business and having to go to companies that are already established has been difficult because they don’t take you seriously. A lot of time was spent convincing them that this was real, not a gimmick.”
Jordan was not discouraged. He understood the larger companies’ perspective and resolved to forge ahead. Presently, he has his flagship brand, the Legado, and is working on two more brands as part of the Imperios line. One will be a fuller, more robust cigar for those who like heavier flavor. The other will be cappuccino flavored and geared towards those who prefer a lighter taste.
Imperios is headquartered in Detroit and has received many positive reviews and much support. And when asked about the notion that in order for a Detroiter to be successful he or she has to leave Detroit. Jordan stated, “That’s not true. I think in order to add to your success you have to be willing to travel outside of your comfort zone. Then you take those experiences, add them to your arsenal and that’s what aids you in being successful.”
Legado is currently being offered direct to consumer. Isaiah Jordan can be contacted via Instagram, @imperioscigars to purchase the product, or visit 1701 Executive Cigar Bar and La Casa De La Habana in Detroit.
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