Today we’d like to introduce you to Kevin Godfrey.
Hi Kevin, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
**Tobacco Junction** is a locally owned tobacco and vape retailer established in 1996 built on the idea that great service and genuine relationships matter just as much as the products themselves. What started as a small, customer-focused shop has grown into a trusted destination across East Texas, now serving communities through multiple locations.
From premium cigars and tobacco to vapes, accessories, and knowledgeable guidance, Tobacco Junction focuses on creating a welcoming, judgment-free environment for both longtime enthusiasts and first-time customers. The goal has always been simple: offer quality products, fair pricing, and a team that takes the time to educate rather than just sell.
As the business expanded, maintaining consistency, integrity, and a community-first mindset remained the priority. Each location reflects the same commitment to customer experience, local employment, and supporting the neighborhoods they serve. Tobacco Junction isn’t just about retail—it’s about building a reliable, familiar place where customers feel known, respected, and taken care of.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like most long-term businesses, the road hasn’t been completely smooth, but overall our journey has been marked by steady and consistent growth. There have been setbacks along the way—operational challenges, market changes, and the realities that come with scaling a business—but none that stopped our forward momentum.
Beginning in 2022, we entered a strong phase of expansion that included opening new locations, remodeling existing stores, and refining our operations. It was a great time for growth and reinvestment, and it allowed us to build on the foundation we had spent years creating. Those periods of expansion came with challenges, but they also confirmed that our model, our team, and our approach were working.
Looking back, the setbacks helped sharpen our systems and decision-making, while the consistent growth reinforced the importance of patience, adaptability, and staying focused on long-term goals.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Over the years, Tobacco Junction has placed a growing focus on the premium cigar side of the business, especially the experience that surrounds it. One of our main priorities has been the expansion and improvement of our humidors and cigar lounges, turning them into destinations rather than just retail spaces. We’ve invested heavily in remodeling these areas to create comfortable, well-maintained environments where customers can slow down, enjoy a cigar, and feel at home.
Along with physical upgrades, we’ve continued to elevate our cigar portfolio. Expanding our premium offerings has been a major focus, including strengthening partnerships and carrying highly respected brands such as Davidoff, the United Cigars portfolio, Padrón, and exclusive releases from Arturo Fuente. These additions reflect our commitment to quality, consistency, and offering products that serious cigar enthusiasts seek out.
This evolution has allowed us to serve a broader range of cigar smokers—from those discovering premium cigars for the first time to seasoned aficionados looking for rare or top-tier selections. For us, it’s not just about adding brands or square footage; it’s about building cigar programs and lounge spaces that match the level of craftsmanship behind the cigars themselves.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Risk is part of everyday decision-making in business, and we believe that without taking calculated risks, meaningful growth isn’t possible. While we’re not reckless, we understand that playing it too safe often leads to stagnation.
Some of our biggest risks have come through physical expansion—doubling and in some cases tripling our footprint to significantly expand our humidor space, cigar lounges, and overall product selection. Those decisions required major financial commitment and confidence in our customers and market, but they were intentional and well thought out.
Each time we’ve taken that step, it’s paid off. Expanding selection and creating larger, more immersive cigar environments allowed us to better serve our customers and elevate the experience, which in turn drove stronger loyalty and growth. Those outcomes reinforced our belief that smart, well-timed risks are essential to building something lasting.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tobaccojunction.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tobaccojunctiontx/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TobaccoJunctionTX/
Image Credits
Kevin Godfrey, Marketing Director took all photos.
