As the Premium Cigar Association Trade Show enters its crucial third day, I am determined to wrap up the event on a high note and embark on a journey to discover the hidden gem, the next big thing that will shape the future of the cigar industry.
My first stop of the day will be at La Galera, a brand that emerged as a hidden gem a few years ago and has continued to impress with its high-quality cigars at affordable prices. As the economy tightens, I’m keen to find more options like La Galera that offer exceptional cigars without breaking the bank. While the show floor might boast an abundance of $20+ cigars, I believe in the importance of discovering those under $10 that deliver tremendous value and satisfaction to cigar enthusiasts.
La Flor Dominicana, a perennial exhibitor at the show, always holds a glimpse of the future with their new offerings that often take some time before they hit the market. I’m excited to peer into the future of cigars through the lens of LFD’s innovative creations.
Next on my list is the up-and-coming company, Big Sky, which has been making waves in the industry. I’m eager to see what they have in store for this year and what their future holds as they continue to grow and make their mark.
Finally, I’ll devote some time to visit Lotus, a company known for producing high-quality lighters, cutters, and ashtrays at incredibly reasonable prices. Ensuring that I have a few hours left in the day, I’ll begin my journey once again, this time on a quest to find the hidden gem, the next big thing that will shape the industry.
I’ll navigate back from left to right, avoiding the booths where I’ve already made purchases, and focus on discovering a company we currently do not do business with. The goal is to find a new supplier, a promising partner to build something extraordinary from the ground up. I’m in search of something unique, an elusive brand not readily available everywhere, with the potential to become a significant player in the years to come.
Similar to a movie producer seeking the next breakout star or a baseball scout searching for the next big-league talent, I’ll be scouting for the next big thing in the cigar world. This task is both challenging and thrilling, as it involves uncovering potential gems that could become the talk of the town.
Sometimes, it’s a clever gimmick that catches the imagination of cigar enthusiasts. Other times, it’s the captivating story behind the brand, or even the passion and dedication of the people driving it. I relish this adventure as I spend the remaining hours of day three and the four hours allotted on day four to uncover these remarkable prospects.
With my plan in place, I am ready to head to the airport and execute it diligently. I will share my exciting discoveries on The Cigar Authority LIVE podcast, reporting back on July 15. I expect the Premium Cigar Association Trade Show will as always be an incredible experience, and I can’t wait to unveil the hidden gems and the next big thing that will shape the future of the cigar industry.