CAO Pilón Añejo is back by popular demand and returns as a full-time line with limited availability,
due to the intensive fermentation and finished cigar aging that gives the blend its signature depth
and character.
Senior Brand Manager Ed Lahmann said, “When CAO Pilón Añejo launched last Spring, it quickly
became apparent that we needed to make this blend more than just a one-time offering. So we took
on the labor and time intensive methods needed to ferment the tobacco and age the cigars and are
making this a full-time brand for CAO. Given the work that goes into this blend, production
quantities will be limited but the good news is that we’re able to deliver what our retailers and fans
have asked of us.”
Handcrafted in Danli, Honduras at STG’s HATSA factory, CAO Pilón Añejo relies on circular pilóns to
heighten the smoking experience and aesthetics of the cigar’s Cuban seed Ecuadorian Sumatra
wrapper. The blend is rich and savory, consisting of Nicaraguan and Dominican filler tobacco,
beneath a Honduran Habano binder. The result is a medium-to-full-bodied smoke that bears a deep,
rich color and savory notes of wood, earth and toast, with a touch of spice.
CAO Pilón Añejo began shipping this week. The line is presented in 20-count boxes, in the three
sizes listed below.
CAO Pilon Añejo Robusto (5.5” x 54); SRP per cigar $8.89
CAO Pilon Añejo Toro (6” x 52); SRP per cigar $8.99
CAO Pilon Añejo Gigante (5.88” x 60); SRP per cigar $9.29
EL REY DEL MUNDO NATURALS FIVE PACK COMING IN APRIL
El Rey del Mundo Naturals, the Honduran-made line that launched in March 2022 will welcome
a five pack featuring its fan-favorite toro.
The bold, red “Locked-In Humidity” pack includes a Boveda humidification pouch to keep the
cigars fresh outside of a humidor for on-the-go smoking experiences.
Handcrafted by artisans at the HATSA factory in Danli, Honduras, El Rey Del Mundo Naturals is
a mellow-to-medium-bodied smoke featuring an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper, a Honduran
binder and a Honduran and Nicaraguan filler. The cigar delivers a smoking experience that is
richly layered, with a subtle note of white pepper, surrounded by deeper notes of cedar and
graham cracker.
Steve Abbot, director of marketing for STG said, “El Rey del Mundo is loaded with complexity,
versatile when it comes to pairing and accessibly priced. These factors have earned the brand a
devoted following over the last year. With this five pack, we’re making it convenient for cigar
lovers to enjoy the popular Reserva Salado frontmark anytime that calls for a great cigar.”
Diesel Disciple will welcome two new sizes as permanent additions to the brand’s growing
lineup.
The soon-to-be-released Toro and Torpedo vitolas will mark the second and third sizes in the
line and will begin shipping this week.
Justin Andrews said, “We decided to launch two new sizes of Diesel Disciple this year because
the blend has gotten such a strong endorsement from the retail community. They love the
blend and the packaging and often tell us that Disciple smokes like a $20 cigar for half the
price. We’re looking forward to rolling out the new formats and will continue to expand the line
according to demand from retailers and cigar smokers.”
Handcrafted at Tabacalera AJ Fernandez in Estelí, Nicaragua and developed in collaboration
between AJ and STG’s Justin Andrews, Diesel Disciple is a robust and balanced cigar blended to
stand out in the medium-full spectrum.
Made with a Mexican San Andreas wrapper, an Ecuadoran Sumatra binder and a filler
exclusively comprised of Nicaraguan Habano from Esteli, the cigar exemplifies blending
expertise with an unexpected layer of sweetness that creates intrigue against Disciple’s bold
and peppery notes.
Diesel Disciple Toro (6.25” x 52); SRP per cigar $9.99
Diesel Disciple Torpedo (6.5” x 54); SRP per cigar $10.49
Both new Diesel Disciple sizes come in 10-count boxes. The line is distributed by Forged Cigar
Company.
Originally released to the top US brick and mortar retailers as a TAA exclusive in 2021, Diesel
Disciple became a full-time line in 2022 when the brand’s sole frontmark a Lancero (7” x 38)
became available in all channels.
PCA Applauds Governor Grisham’s Veto of Harmful Cigar Tax Increase in New Mexico
Washington, D.C. – The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) today expressed its appreciation to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham for vetoing the harmful 25% cigar tax hike in H.B. 547. The veto shields New Mexico premium cigar retailers from the adverse consequences such a drastic tax increase would have on their business.
PCA Director of State Advocacy, Glynn Loope, said, “We are grateful to Governor Grisham for recognizing the impact this tax increase would have had on small businesses and consumers in New Mexico, especially during these challenging times. Her decision to veto the cigar tax will undoubtedly work to keep sales of premium cigars in New Mexico.”
However, actions by the legislature to strip the cigar tax cap during the session need to be addressed. Loope stated, “Last week, I spoke to the Governor’s Office on this issue. Procedurally, her hands were tied. We look forward to working with the Governor’s Office and legislative allies to revisit this matter in the 2024 session.”
Loope continued, “We are pleased that the legislation that would have banned flavored tobacco products, as well as legislation that would have granted local governments sweeping authority over tobacco products failed to advance. We appreciate all of our premium cigar advocates, both retailers and consumers alike, who let their voices be heard on these issues.”
PCA represents over 3,000 members nationwide, including retailers, manufacturers, and distributors of premium cigars, and works to protect the interests of the premium cigar industry. The association has been advocating for the protection of premium cigars from harmful regulation, taxes, and other measures that threaten the industry.
PARTAGAS RELEASES FIRST US-MADE CIGAR IN
COLLABORATION WITH EL TITÁN DE BRONZE
Partagas will release its first collaboration in April with Partagas de Bronce, an exceptional
cigar handcrafted in Miami by the Cuban expatriate rollers of the famed El Titán de Bronze
Cigar Factory.
The cigar’s name calls upon the Spanish spelling of “bronce” in tribute to the origins of Partagas
and El Titan de Bronze.
Partagas de Bronce was blended by STG’s Justin Andrews, with Sandy Cobas and the blending
team at El Titán de Bronze. Made with a Corojo wrapper, Partagas de Bronce is a medium-
bodied Nicaraguan puro that brims with nuances. Cocoa, earth, wood, hints of citrus and an
intriguing creaminess deliver a cigar that highlights the heritage of Partagas with the artistry of
El Titán de Bronze.
John Hakim, brand manager of Partagas said, “For a venerable brand like Partagas,
collaborating with a legend like Sandy Cobas and creating a special, limited edition cigar at her
family-owned factory marks an important step in Partagas’ evolution. Partagas de Bronce
highlights Partagas’ devotion to old-world cigarmaking techniques, and its commitment to
marching the brand forward through innovation. We look forward to sharing this exceptional
blend with cigar lovers across the country.”
Partagas de Bronce will be released in April, when 5,000 boxes, each signed by the El Titán de
Bronze cigarmaker who crafted them, will ship to retailers. Each box contains ten cigars.
Partagas de Bronce Corona Gorda (6.25” x 46) – SRP per cigar $22.99
Phillips & King Introduces New Brand and Digital Strategy
Phillips & King rolls out a bold new look and announces launch of a digital platform that will modernize the B2B tobacco and related wholesale categories.
(January 2022) Phillips & King International, Inc. is kicking off 2022 with a new brand identity and the announcement of a forthcoming new wholesale e-commerce platform. A distributor of thousands of diverse products since 1906, Phillips & King has a long, successful history serving independent and small chain convenience, tobacco, and liquor retailers across the United States.
Phillips & King is unveiling a new brand identity to mark the beginning of the next chapter in the company’s story. A contemporary refinement of the company’s “shield and knight” badge, the new logo signifies its mission to modernize the business, while paying homage to the equity earned over their 116-year heritage.
Phillips & King has embarked on a complete digital transformation of its business to better serve the evolving needs of its retail customers and brand partners. Over the course of this year, the company will be launching a host of enhancements to its business, including a new web platform expected to launch in early Q2 that will make it easier than ever for stores to discover and stock the products that consumers want most. Phillips & King will also be greatly expanding its product and category assortment to give emerging brands the ability to reach more buyers— and give stores access to the best new products on the market.
“The future of B2B wholesale commerce is both digital and highly-personalized,” says Jason Carignan, President of Phillips & King. “Our new web platform will enable us to more easily connect buyers and sellers across the industry and offer a more expansive array of products and categories- all while improving the personal connection our sales teams have with customers. We believe that retailers should be able to manage their entire business with ease from their mobile device and have access to business intelligence— and expert guidance— that helps drive inventory-buying decisions. This new platform is the first step in our quest to helping stores thrive in the new retail reality.”
To get an extensive first look at the new Phillips & King brand identity, those attending TPE 2022 can visit booth #4081 at the show, happening in Las Vegas, Nevada, January 26 – January 28, 2022. Visit phillipsandking.com for more information and to experience the future of business.
About Phillips & King
Phillips & King, a subsidiary of Kretek International, Inc., is a leading distributor of specialty tobacco, alternative smoking products, and accessories in the United States. Since 1906, the company has built a strong reputation by focusing on independent and small chain convenience, tobacco, and liquor retailers. Phillips & King offers an unparalleled catalog of products and ships to all 50 states, the US Virgin Islands, Guam, Puerto Rico, and globally to US military bases, providing hassle-free tobacco tax compliance, easy web-ordering and a team of knowledgeable customer service experts. For more information, please visit phillipsandking.com.
TPE 2020: New Products Releases, Streamlined Scheduling, Smart Panels, and 1 Big Party
The first big show of the year aims to position all attendees on a path to success.
January 2020 – With thousands of products and buyers, exclusive show deals and experiences, and the latest industry information, attending the Tobacco Plus Expo 2020 (TPE 2020) is the ideal way to start the year for all facets of the tobacco business. Happening Wednesday, January 29, 2020 through Friday, January 31, 2020 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, the show offers 3 days of business, learning, networking, and fun, paving the way for a successful and profitable year for the industry.
It Starts Here: Business
With TPE 2020 projecting increased numbers over 2019 attendance and exhibiting brands, selective exhibitors are taking notice, and TPE 2020 may be your only chance to meet with some of them. And many companies are releasing new products at TPE 2020, giving this year’s attendees an extra advantage in keeping inventory fresh for their customers. To easily find these new launches amidst the thousands at the show, TPE 2020 will feature a Product Spotlight, where attendees can expect to see new products from brands like:
Agnorsa Leaf
Alec Bradley Cigars
Drew Estate
Espinosa
Fratello
Illusione
Jas Sum Kral
JRE Tobacco
Maya Selva Cigars
Nova Cigars
Republic Tobacco
Room 101
Santa Clara
Vicarias
Villiger
Committed to hosting a fun, educational, and successful show, the Tobacco Media Group (TMG) is pleased to offer the TPE Connect Program, an online platform that matches buyers and exhibitors, and allows them to schedule meetings during show hours. To optimize your TPE time and participate in TPE Connect, just log in to your attendee or exhibitor portal prior to the show and update your product preferences so you can be matched to meet with colleagues relevant to your business.
Learning: The Best Way to Get Ahead
Moderated by tobacco industry leaders, TPE is proud to offer IGNITE- a series of educational sessions aimed at keeping attendees and exhibitors on the cutting edge of our industry. From regulations and retail growth to merchandising and market trends, TPE 2020 offers relevant information with your growth in mind. For a complete list of session topics and times, please visit: https://tobaccoplusexpo.com/education/. And did we mention that 14-time NBA All-Star Karl Malone is the TPE 2020 Keynote Speaker? You won’t want to miss this.
Networking and Fun
What’s a TPE Show without entertainment? This year, we have a 4-in-1 all-industry party on Wednesday, Jan 29 at the Sahara Hotel & Casino (formerly the SLS Hotel) from 6pm to 9pm. Held at 4 venues in close proximity, party-goers can relax at Club 101 with dueling pianos and a cigar-lounge, cavort over carving stations at Bazaar Meat, enjoy a club scene with DJ Eli from Drew Estate at the Theater, and revel in classic Vegas at the Gaming Casino. Whether you hit all the parties or settle in at one, it’s a night of food, drinks, and networking that should not be missed.
“We’ve invested in TPE and our industry,” says Ellie Hansen, Trade Show Director for Tobacco Media Group. “We’ve put together a show that offers what people are looking for- solid brands and products, quality buyers actively looking to stock their shelves, education panels to keep people informed and ahead of industry happenings, and networking opportunities that are actually fun. We’re feeling good, and are planning to see you at TPE 2020.”
The Path to Success for 2020
Tickets are still available for TPE 2020, so do not miss your chance to set yourself up for growth and profit in the new year. Please visit www.tobaccoplusexpo to register.
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About TPE:
Under the banner of Tobacco Media Group (TMG) owned by Kretek International, Tobacco Plus Expo (TPE) is the largest B2B tobacco trade show highlighting the full-spectrum of tobacco, vapor, alternatives and general merchandise products available on the ever-evolving market. TPE 2020 is planning to deliver the industry’s most compelling content, products, and information, and will be held January 29, 2020 through January 31, 2020 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. To learn more about the show, please visit the website: www.tobaccoplusexpo.com.
Tobacco Plus Expo: Supporting the Support Beams of the Tobacco Industry
Tradeshow partners with NATO, offering contributions and a platform to help all facets of the tobacco business.
December 2019 – With the Tobacco Plus Expo 2020 (TPE) shaping up to be a must-attend event for the new year, the Tobacco Media Group, Inc. (TMG), is pleased to announce its continued support and partnership with the National Association of Tobacco Outlets (NATO), which includes a significant presence at the TPE 2020 show, held Wednesday, January 29, 2020 through Friday, January 31, 2020 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.
With 60,000 members, NATO works endlessly to protect the rights and interests of tobacco retailers and consumers, while influencing significant business decisions and legislation. They are a resource to all, disseminating details on FDA regulations and local, state, and federal issues regarding tobacco, e-cigarettes & vapor, adult rights, and retailer freedoms. TMG has battled regulations right alongside NATO, using Tobacco Business, their popular magazine, as a means of distributing information and being a reputable resource for the latest industry news.
Like many in the industry, TMG and their parent company, Kretek International, Inc. also contribute monetarily to NATO, facilitating and fighting legislation that affects the entire tobacco business. In addition to this financial support, TMG is dedicated to elevating the organization by bringing NATO to TPE and bringing the industry to NATO.
NATO will be a strong presence at this year’s show, occupying a booth with team members offering information and insight to attendees and exhibitors. They will also be leading several of TPE 2020’s IGNITE educational sessions, speaking on market trends and current legislation.
“We see the TPE show as a huge opportunity to partner with organizations like NATO,” says Ben Stimpson, Managing Director of the Tobacco Media Group, Inc. “Tom Briant and his team are leading a comprehensive and imperative legislative charge to help educate and fight for all businesses in the tobacco industry. The information we share, and the money we donate helps their legislation efforts at local and state levels and strengthens our industry as a whole. NATO is the ace in all of our pockets.”
The first major tradeshow of the year for the tobacco and alternative industries, TPE 2020 brings together retailers, distributors, manufacturers, and industry media for three days of solid business, networking, learning, and fun. For information about exhibiting or attending, please visit www.tobaccoplusexpo.com.
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About TPE:
Under the banner of Tobacco Media Group (TMG) owned by Kretek International, Tobacco Plus Expo (TPE) is the largest B2B tobacco trade show highlighting the full-spectrum of tobacco, vapor, alternatives and general merchandise products available on the ever-evolving market. TPE 2020 is planning to deliver the industry’s most compelling content, products, and information, and will be held January 29, 2020 through January 31, 2020 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. To learn more about the show, please visit the website: www.tobaccoplusexpo.com.
About NATO:
Started over 15 years ago, the National Association of Tobacco Outlets, Inc. (NATO) is a national trade association organized to strengthen the business interests of all tobacco retailers on a collaborative and individual basis. Headquartered in Minneapolis, it helps its over 60,000 members across the country navigate and stay on top of tobacco-related legislation on the local, state, and federal levels. To learn more about NATO, please visit the website www.natocentral.org.
