Popular shop Headcase Cigars & Curios makes bid to sell 'luxury' alcohol

Headcase Cigars & Curios, a cigar, micro-coffee, and gift shop located on Albert Road, has submitted an application for a premises licence to Portsmouth City Council. The business is seeking permission to sell alcohol, described as “luxury,” both for consumption on the premises and as retail sales between 9am and 7pm, Monday to Sunday.

In its application, the business explained its nature, stating: “Headcase Cigars is a retail business selling fine handmade cigars and all things related to cigars. We also stock gifts and have a micro coffee shop.”

The shop expressed its desire to add a “small selection of alcohol” to its offering, both as an “off licence” and for customers to enjoy in-house. The application noted that, as the shop specialises in luxury goods, the alcohol it intends to stock would “reflect our business”.

Headcase Cigars, founded in 2014 positions itself as a unique business, offering a wide range of cigars and accessories, including humidors, cutters, and lighters. The shop’s website claims that it was created from the owner’s passion for and knowledge of fine cigars.

The shop prides itself on being different from traditional cigar retailers. Visitors are greeted with a “relaxed informal experience”, and are offered complimentary coffee during their visit. The establishment also features outdoor seating, where customers can enjoy a cigar with a drink. Additionally, the website highlights that Headcase Cigars has a zero-alcohol bar.

The shop’s inventory is said to change regularly, but the business remains committed to fair pricing, good customer service, and what it calls “experiential retail therapy.”

“At Head Case Cigars & Curios, we provide our shoppers with a broad assortment of ever-changing inventory, the only thing that remains the same is our honest prices and good customer service. “

Residents can comment on the application using reference 24/03393/LAPREM until November 7.