Photo: Courtesy of the source

Holguin Cigar Company Recovers Production Line

The “Lázaro Peña” Cigar Company in Holguin, a fundamental pillar of the Tabacuba Group. It reaffirms its position as a benchmark of industrial sovereignty in the country. Recently, the company faced a critical challenge on its tobacco fiber production line. A vital component where 95% of the cigarette’s raw material is processed.

The problem stemmed from the breakage of the cutter belts, parts that Mechanical Engineer Ernesto Díaz Gómez. An Industrial Maintenance specialist, defines as the “logistical heart” of the factory.

Due to a lack of imported spare parts, these belts—designed to last a year—operated continuously for four years. Until the accumulated wear caused the industry to shut down.

So the maintenance team, led by Díaz Gómez, undertook the task of adapting components and restoring the system’s functionality. Despite being given a week to complete the repairs. Also the innovators’ expertise allowed them to finish the job in just 24 hours.

Holguin Cigar Company Recovers Production Line 0
Cigarette scraps
Photo: Courtesy of the source

In addition to this technical feat, the “Lázaro Peña” factory stands out for other recent achievements that solidify its energy and production efficiency: The company was awarded at Expo Caribe 2025. For creating a pneumatic paper compacting press made from recycled parts. Which reduces transportation and recycling costs.

Given the current situation in the country, the factory has adjusted its work schedules to mitigate peak electricity consumption. Without interrupting its delivery commitments.

According to the company’s reports, the full implementation of an Innovation Management System is planned to diversify production. Through the use of industrial waste, such as reconstituted tobacco.

Furthermore the work of specialists like Ernesto Díaz demonstrates that innovators are the backbone of Holguin’s industry. Their ability to anticipate problems and transform shortcomings into solutions. It is what keeps the machinery running that sustains the social purpose of this emblematic company.

By: Daimy Peña Guillén

Radio Angulo
Latest posts by Radio Angulo (see all)