My legs are already tired, as at all IPCPR Trade Show’s the distance traveled in a day is very surprising. The Huge convention floor and the distance between hotel rooms and events is gigantic, but its all worth it when you get to the show floor.
First off, the day started with a Cigar Breakfast at 8am. Industry updates were followed by recognition to the lobbing efforts of some great retailers including Jeff from Corona Cigar right here in Orlando and Steve and David Castro from Davidus Cigar in Maryland. A couple of cigars later and it was 10am and time for the doors to open.
The attendance was up from last year which is a good sign for our industry. Also up was the attitude of the attendees. I feel most seemed upbeat and optimistic for the cigar industry. Dispite the government concerns that always are broght up, and the economy slow down, most felt the worst days are behind us and better days were here.
A burst of excitment came when the show floor opened and retailers rushed to the the booths to see a well dressed show floor with attractive displays and new products.
There are 20 long isles throughout this show, and after day one I’ve only gone through just 3 of them. Some of these great suppliers I haven’t seen since last year and day one went to saying hello’s and I’m going to have to shut up and get to work. From 6am to 1am is all fun and games. Today – Day 2 its all business….Cigar Business.
