Eco-Cigs' New Hire to Lead Retail Expansion

SKOKIE, Ill. -- Eco-Cigs Inc. is making management moves to help with its retail expansion plans.

The electronic cigarette company has hired Roger Grogman as vice president of sales and marketing. In his new position, Grogram will be responsible for the expansion and growth of the Eco-Cigs brands in retail channels.

"The experience and knowledge Roger has of the overall industry, and particularly the category and business channels we are targeting for Eco-Cigs brands, will contribute significantly to our growth and expansion," said Steve Glasberg, president and CEO.

The retail expansion push comes as retailers have indicated that eCigs are here to stay. A recent Wells Fargo Securities Tobacco Talk survey found that retailers and wholesalers think e-cigs are more than just a passing fad, as CSNews Online previously reported. They got a big confidence boost in April when Lorillard Inc. -- the tobacco company behind the Newport cigarette brand -- announced its acquisition of blu ecigs for $135 million.

"Eco-Cigs' consumer preferred quality brands, combined with the increased interest in tobacco alternatives and product education, will provide a growth platform for Eco- Cigs' expansion that will benefit the retailer and the consumer," Grogman said.

Grogman is a former corporate vice president of marketing for the McLane Co. Inc with more than 15 years of experience in marketing distribution to convenience stores, wholesale clubs and drug stores. Prior to his time with the McLane, Grogman spent 18 years in national marketing with the Southland Corp. (7-Eleven). His responsibilities included brand development, management, research, advertising and strategic growth planning.