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Press Release: Patrick Hurd Departure from Kretek

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For Immediate Release:

Kretek Contact:
Rachel McKnett
rachelmcknett@kretek.com

 

Kretek International, Inc. Announces Departure of Patrick Hurd, CSO

 

Moorpark, CA – April 30, 2021 – Kretek International, Inc., a leading American cigar and specialty tobacco manufacturer, importer, wholesaler and distributor announces the departure of long time Chief Sales Officer Patrick Hurd after two decades with the company. Hurd’s exit from the company is expected as of May 31, 2021.  


Patrick Hurd originally joined Kretek in November 2000, while launching its Canadian subsidiary, Kretek Canada. Under his leadership, as General Manager, Kretek Canada experienced extensive growth for eleven (11) years before he moved to the United States in June 2011 to launch Kretek International’s Ventura Cigar Company as its General Manager.  Hurd was promoted to Vice President Sales in 2013 and to Chief Sales Officer in 2017.   

 

Hurd leaves the company for personal reasons, to rejoin his family who moved back to Toronto, Canada full time in 2019.  The current Covid-19 crisis made commuting infeasible, which prompted Hurd’s decision to move back to Canada full-time.

Kretek International’s President, Sean Cassar commented, “Patrick has been a vital member of our executive team and a significant contributor to the growth of our proprietary brands.  He will be missed, but as a family business we appreciate the decision he’s made to focus on his family during these unprecedented times.”

Hurd remarked, “Leaving a family business as strong and tightly knit as Kretek is never an easy decision, but my own family is obviously my priority, and that means I need to be back home with them in Canada.  I also look forward to seeing my industry peers and customers at TPE 21 in Las Vegas, May 12-14, 2021 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.”

Kretek currently intends to enter into a consulting agreement with Hurd that will become effective upon his departure and has not announced a successor at this time.

 

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About Kretek International, Inc.

Kretek International, Inc., parent company to DRYFT Sciences, LLC, Phillips & King, Ventura Cigar Company, and Tobacco Media Group (TMG) is a leading American importer, marketer, and distributor of cigars and specialty tobacco products sold by convenience, mass, and national retailers. For over 30 years, Kretek has enjoyed a strong reputation for providing exceptional customer relationships and top-quality goods. The company continues to offer standout brands like Djarum, Cuban Rounds, and Djeep Lighters to distribution channels across the United States and Canada, bringing value, high margins, and growth to retailers and distributors.

 

 

final- Patrick Hurd departure from kretek PR

TPE 2021: New Dates, Same Location Tobacco Media Group moving the Tobacco Plus Expo to May 2021

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For immediate release:

CONTACT
TPE Show Contact: Dawn Conger

dawnconger@tobaccoplusexpo.com

TPE Press Contact: Rachel McKnett
rachelmcknett@kretek.com

TPE 2021: New Dates, Same Location

Tobacco Media Group moving the Tobacco Plus Expo to May 2021

August 2020 – In an exceptional year of uncertainty due to COVID-19, Tobacco Media Group (TMG) is taking steps to support the Tobacco, Vapor, and Alternative Industries by moving their Tobacco Plus Expo to May 12-14, 2021.

Generally a tradeshow scheduled at the beginning of the year, TMG had been moving forward with plans for TPE 2021 in January, with most of the show floor already sold out to Exhibitors. The opportunity arose to move the show to May, and TMG recognized that the later timing would be better for the industry and the peace of mind for all who attend TPE. After careful thought, the company made the decision to move forward with the new dates.

Says Ben Stimpson, Managing Director of Tobacco Media Group, “A lot of work has already gone into the planning of a blockbuster TPE 2021, so when we were presented with the opportunity to move the show to May, we knew we needed to jump on it. It is our hope that the later timing allows the uncertainties surrounding COVID-19 to improve and gets us well out of range of the traditional winter flu season. Plus, the warmer weather of May gives us more options to safely execute the business and networking aspects of the show. We are committed to producing a successful TPE 2021 for all of our Exhibitors and Attendees and feel confident that this new timing has everyone’s best interests in mind.”

As TPE 2021 planning progresses, TMG will continue to gather safety insights and suggestions from voices within the tobacco industry and will release show details as they further fall into place. Additionally, TMG is working closely with the Las Vegas Convention Center and the Las Vegas Visitor’s Bureau to stay abreast of the latest safety guidance advisories for the city. The company will be keeping a close eye on evolving health and wellbeing protocols and will make every effort to ensure best practices are followed.

When informed of the decision to move the dates of TPE 2021, CEO of Drew Estate, Glenn Wolfson said “Drew Estate has always been a big supporter of TPE and it has been gratifying to have witnessed the tradeshow’s increased quality and impact on the entire industry. While we certainly will miss not being able to participate in the trade show at the end of January, which is designed to help create a fast start for all industry stakeholders in the new year, the decision to defer the show to May was smart, and the right thing to do. TMG has really elevated the business opportunities available to retailers and manufacturers.” Wolfson went on to add that “what is most gratifying is that TMG reached out to solicit the perspectives of more than 125 retailers and 50 exhibitors via telephone and Zoom video conversations and an email survey. Their interest in listening to the voices of so many industry participants about the design of the 2021 show is refreshing, and the decision to change dates this far ahead of the original dates, demonstrates TMG’s commitment to true collaboration with, and respect of, the needs of both retailers and manufacturers. Drew Estate will certainly be participating in TPE 2021.”

Echoing similar sentiments for TPE, Eli Davis and Shahar Ilus from Ketoret BioNaturals, Inc. offered, “We’re very excited to get back to some normalcy. TPE’s new show dates will give our world the chance to make a strong comeback.”

TPE 2021 will be held May 12-14, 2021 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. The only thing different from the original TPE 2021 plan are the dates. The exhibiting space, show floor layout, and convention center hall will be the same as initially planned when the show was in January. For more information, please visit the TPE 2021 website.

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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 2021 is planning to deliver the industry’s most compelling content, products, and information, and will be held May 12, 2021 through May 14, 2021 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. To learn more about the show, please visit the website: www.tobaccoplusexpo.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.

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For immediate release:

CONTACT
TPE Show Contact: Dawn Conger

dawnconger@tobaccoplusexpo.com

TPE Press Contact: Rachel McKnett
rachelmcknett@kretek.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.

NBA Legend – Karl Malone to kick off Tobacco Plus Expo with insight and inspiration for all facets of the Tobacco Industry

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For Immediate Release:

CONTACT
TPE Show Contact: Dawn Conger

dawnconger@tobaccoplusexpo.com

TPE Press Contact: Rachel McKnett
rachelmcknett@kretek.com

Karl Malone, Keynote Speaker of TPE 2020

Malone to kick off Tobacco Plus Expo with insight and inspiration for all facets of the Tobacco Industry.

November 2019 – The Tobacco Media Group (TMG) is excited to announce 14-time NBA All-Star Karl Malone as the Keynote Speaker for the Tobacco Plus Expo 2020 (TPE 2020). Well-respected for his performance, talent, and many achievements on the court, including being the NBA’s 2nd all-time leading scorer, a 2-time Olympic Champion, and a 2-time NBA Most Valuable Player, Malone has brought his leadership and vision off the court and into the tobacco industry, developing a premium cigar using tobacco aged in rum barrels in collaboration with Guillermo Leon Herbert, the owner of LA Aurora. Malone has long since enjoyed relaxing with cigars, and the development process has given him a new view on the industry. As the TPE 2020 Keynote Speaker, Karl Malone will offer attendees insight as an enthusiast, a manufacturer, and even as a retailer on behalf of his daughter, Kadee Malone, who owns Legends Cigar & Vape. Perfect for a B2B show that brings the entire industry together, the Keynote Session at TPE 2020 will lead a well-rounded schedule of interesting educational sessions covering different categories, facets, and perspectives.

 

karl malone nba legend

 

The first major tradeshow of the year for the tobacco and alternative industries, TPE 2020 runs Wednesday, January 29 through Friday, January 31 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. For TPE 2020, TMG set out to re-invigorate the trade show’s educational benefits by bringing in some of the premium tobacco industry’s biggest disruptors and headliners. Each session of IGNITE has been designed to empower retailers and manufacturers and improve their businesses with insights from companies and entrepreneurs who are making a difference and challenging the status quo of their respective industries.

 

“TMG’s mission and goal is to provide our audience with timely, useful content that will help them do business better. When it came time to plan out the educational lineup for TPE 2020, we wanted to bring the same energy and top-notch content we feature in each issue of Tobacco Business Magazine into the upcoming trade show,” says Antoine Reid, Senior Editor and Digital Content director for TMG. “We understand that the typical educational conference can be boring and a chore to sit through, but that’s not what TPE 2020’s educational sessions will be. IGNITE will be informative, engaging and feature a diverse lineup of speakers and experts that will leave attendees feeling inspired, invigorated and ready to take on the rest of 2020 with excitement and the knowledge needed to be successful in business.”

In addition to the Keynote Address, TMG is pleased to announce the following sessions and moderators, which will also include a panel of industry experts on each topic:

Thursday 1/30/20

11:30-12:15 Sisters of the Leaf: Selling, Marketing, and Promoting Tobacco Products to Women, moderated by Erica Arroyo

2:30-5pm NATO: Local, State, and Federal Tobacco Legislation and Regulations: What Industry Members Need to Know with Thomas Briant

Friday 1/31/20

11:30-12:15pm Tobacco Retail Rebooted: Jumpstart and Rejuvenate Your Retail Operation, moderated by Dave Garofalo

2:30-3:30pm State of the Union: Cigar Legislation Update, moderated by Glynn Loope

Our education session calendar is continuously being updated as new conferences are added to the show. For additional details and the most up to date scheduling information, please visit www.tobaccoplusexpo.com.

It’s not too early to secure your pass for TPE and success in 2020. Just 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.