In a recent press release, the Premium Cigar Association was practically on cloud nine, elated and eager to announce to the cigar world that none other than Davidoff of Geneva USA will be returning as an exhibitor for the 2025 PCA trade show in New Orleans.
It has been a few years since Davidoff first dropped out as a vendor for the annual trade show, leaving many to wonder what the reason(s) for the split was, and now the question arises “what made them change their minds this coming year?”
Back in 2020 when Davidoff first dropped the bombshell announcement of their departure from the trade show, Dylan Austin, president of Davidoff Americas explained, “This decision comes after careful consideration and thought, as the format of the current trade show no longer aligns with the company’s commercial strategy, needs or standards and requires a major transformation.”
Apparently, PCA leadership has been feeling the gap left by the industry giant these last few shows and have seemingly now made enough adjustments to entice the storied Davidoff franchise to make its return.
In the announcement, Davidoff commented, “The shift of the trade show date to April better fits the companies and industries business cycle and projects the opportunity of more impactful presentation of the company’s brands and programs going forward”
Zak Medwin, Davidoff of Geneva USA’s Ad Interim President and Commercial Director went on to comment, “I’m very pleased that in recent conversations with PCA leadership we have found closer alignment and a shared vision of shaping our beautiful industry’s future.”
This move effectively ends the 4-year absence of Davidoff of Geneva USA from the PCA trade show. See the full press release here.
What are your thoughts on this move? Does the return of Davidoff of Geneva USA promise to improve the PCA for 2025? Does the shift from the summer to spring help the industry as a whole, or is this just to placate a giant? Let’s start a conversation and leave a comment below!