Smoker Friendly, Freedom Smokeless Renew Exclusive Pact

BOULDER, Colo. -- Smoker Friendly International renewed its exclusive private-brand manufacturing agreement with Freedom Smokeless. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Freedom Smokeless makes electronic cigarettes under its "Made in the USA" line. The two companies have had a pact since 2009 whereby Freedom has been manufacturing and distributing Smoker Friendly-branded eCig starter kits, Express kits, cartridge refills, disposals and accessories.

"Initially, there were several reasons [why] we chose Freedom as our supplier," said Terry Gallagher Jr., Smoker Friendly's president. "We liked the quality of their products as well as the fact that Freedom does not compete against us online. Because of their continued commitment to quality, world-class customer service and innovative products, renewing their exclusive agreement was a no-brainer."

Glenn Kassel, Freedom Smokeless' president, added that the two companies have a great partnership and he was delighted the agreement was renewed. "The Gallaghers have created a team that is like family, and we are honored to be part of that family," he said.

Smoker Friendly is the largest cigarette and tobacco store retailer in the United States, according to the company. It operates nearly 1,000 stores.

Freedom Smokeless, founded in 2008 in San Clemente, Calif., manufactures eCig and cartridge products available in thousands of tobacco shops.