I heard a rumor that some retailers are going to stop selling the CAO line because they are being “heavy handed” with the MSRP. They want to set up a two-tier MSRP structure; one for the high volume partner(s) and one for everyone else. To do this they are pushing the retailer to strictly follow the MSRP they give them. Some retailers are telling them to "stick it" and will no longer carry the line.

Again it’s rumor but has anyone else heard this?
GT

Yes I have. I'll wait for Jon@CAO to chime in and set matters straight. X

I read somewhere that many retailers are not going to carry the CAO lines anyore ...

... because they are having too much trouble even getting them.

Sounds like BS to me, seeing as how it would be illegal for CAO to step in and force a retailer to sell at a set price, and as MSRP= Manufactures SUGGESTED Retail Price.

The title of this thread is fitting, i.e., "rumor." Suffice it to say, this entire topic/rumor/myth has been making its way around the online community and originated with (1) disgruntled retailer (we are completely aware of who this is) who does not have his facts lined up correctly.

This is the link were I read about the CAO shortages. It's from the ICG Message Board ...

http://www.cigargroup.com/news/cigars/messages/51460.html 

Sorry Jon ... I should have waited for your reply before I posted ... 😞

I've seen it there and just about everywhere that the aforementioned retailer could possibly post online.

Boy, that was a quick flurry of responses!

It does bring up a good question. Does CAO or other mfgs require a min MSRP for their product? I am sure it could be written into the agreement the retailer signs to stock the product.
GT

Wow, I wish we could get the California fires put out as fast as Jon responded to the rumor!

Charlie

I questioned My local shop about this yesterday and his response was "Thats a bunch of BullSh%@"

Happy herf`n
Rob

Only tenty stix per box? You know its always been a ripoff

CAO is one of my favorite brands, but my 2 local shops never carry the Corona Extreme sticks. Are these hard to find?

I opted for a CAO anniversary maduro corona tonight instead of an ISOM, and it was plugged so bad I had to chunk it. 😞

First time that has happened... Had to go for a Fittipaldi Maddie as a replacement.

Well CAO muist be doing something right to make these idiots jealous. I hate it when I see these rumor threads because 99% of the negative ones turn out false. I think if you want to know email the company and ask or email the source of the rumor or post to them and make them back up thier claim. I have had no trouble finding my favorite CAO Brazilias if one vendor is out I just switch vendors. Sorry to the original poster but this is a pet peeve of mine.