The Premium Cigar Association (PCA), formerly known as IPCPR and RTDA, has heeded the call of cigar retailers and companies, shifting the date of its annual trade show from the sweltering summer months to a more accommodating March schedule. This decision comes after decades of industrywide complaints about the former timing. The 2024 PCA trade show is set to take place from March 22 to 25 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Scott Pearce, the executive director of the PCA, expressed the association's responsiveness to member feedback. "From pretty much my first day on the job, I have heard from numerous members that moving the trade show earlier in the year would be better for the annual business cycle," he explained.
Greg Zimmerman, president of the PCA board, highlighted the advantages of the new dates for retailers. The March scheduling allows retailers to have access to new products ahead of the busy summer season when demand is at its peak.
Historically, the PCA trade show has been the premier platform for the handmade cigar industry to introduce its latest products to retailers. Attendees at the event have the opportunity to place early orders and take advantage of exclusive discounts.
In contrast, the Tobacconists' Association of America (TAA), a smaller subset of the PCA, traditionally holds its trade show in the spring. Given the scheduling shift by the PCA, it is unlikely that the TAA's 2024 show will coincide with the PCA convention.
The PCA's 2023 trade show is still on track for July 7 to 11 at the Venetian Expo convention center in Las Vegas. Cigar enthusiasts and industry professionals are eagerly awaiting this year's event, with the anticipation of what new products and developments will be unveiled.
