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16 SMOKESHOP April 2016 Industry NEWS Distributor Lotus International Changes Name to Rëyns International warwick, r.i.—Lotus International LLC, a distributor of tobacco accessories and other consumer products, has changed its name to Rëyns International effective April 1. In a statement announcing the new name, the company explained that the move was made "in response to a wide range of changes in the context of its business." The firm had been the U.S. distributor for S.T. Dupont accessories from 2008 to 2015. "The change will bring a fresh start to the company as it embarks on new endeavors and strategies to bring stronger brand recognition to the industry while pushing the limits once again on design concepts," the statement added. Elie Bleu Signs Distribution Agreement with Rëyns International paris—Elie Bleu S.A., Paris, France has appointed Rëyns International, LLC of Warwick, R.I. as their exclusive distributor for the United States and Canada. The Elie Bleu workshop is a luxury manufacturer of humidors, watch winders, jewelry boxes, and other wood accessories, and is regarded as the premier designer and manufacturer of the finest wooden cabinets and boxes in the world. The company produces exclusive pieces for the lead- ing Parisian jewelers couture houses, and luxury brands in the world, and its products are considered works of art, known for their unique and very limited edition pieces. Some experience significant increases in value over time. Recently, Elie Bleu partnered with Cuba's Habanos S.A. to create a limited series of 50 Cohiba 50th Anniversary humidors containing 50 limited edition Cohiba cigars; unit no. 1 was auctioned for $358,000. "The synergy between our two company's manage- ment is great," said Michael Reynolds, president of Rëyns International, LLC. "The Elie Bleu artisans have incredible technique and the materials used are the best in the world. Their use of marquetry on some of the pieces is amazing. Every piece is hand crafted. Every piece has distinctive char- acteristics. An owner of an Elie Bleu humidor enjoys not only its beauty and function but the way it enhances the pleasure of the cigar experience including the unique sound of preci- sion an Elie Bleu humidor makes as it closed." Laurent Fuchs, director general of Elie Bleu, looks at the distribution agreement as part of their strategic plan of tak- ing the brand to the next level. Elie Bleu customers "will be serviced by a dynamic and enthusiastic American team who will allow the brand to better serve its clientele and give them new products and special care," he said. Rëyns International, Warwick, R.I., Tel: (401) 921-5216, Email: support@reynsint.com, Web: eliebleu.com. BerettaTube•1-2V•Aug15.indd 1 9/18/15 12:00 PM