For 91 years, the Premium Cigar Association (PCA) has consistently spearheaded the industry’s growth and well-being. Having joined in 2019, I was excited about the opportunity to fight for our industry and my personal passion as the association’s director of federal affairs. I quickly learned that the PCA is so much more than advocacy. It’s an opportunity builder for entrepreneurs, a voice for small businesses, a unifier within a complex industry, and a guardian for the families and communities that produce, market, and sell premium cigars and pipe tobacco. Five years later, I am privileged to now lead PCA and continue building on this legacy through this transition period with our board of directors.
At PCA, we are committed to providing value to our members. Whether it’s through our premier trade show, the development of new and value-added services, or our unwavering leadership in advocacy, we are always looking for opportunities to enhance the PCA membership experience. Our dedicated staff is constantly generating new ideas and programs to meet our member’s evolving needs.
PCA plays a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s trajectory. Through our evolving trade show, we provide a premier platform for launching new products, exploring emerging trends, and setting the industry’s direction. Our educational seminars, industry awards, and initiatives, like the recently announced Women of PCA, all aim to support and grow our industry.
Beyond our annual trade show, we actively listen to membership to identify new opportunities that increase the value of a PCA membership. Earlier this year, PCA launched an association health care program that allows PCA members to buy health insurance at group rates. We are developing similar opportunities for retirement benefits and other programs that often disadvantage smaller retailers. As we track tobacco business discrimination trends, we will explore how PCA affiliation can support the needs of other businesses and financial services.
The regulatory landscape surrounding premium tobacco is constantly shifting. Although we can boast several wins, we cannot slow down our advocacy efforts and programs. Similarly, we must continue evolving our communications strategies to engage with everyday voters who enjoy premium cigars and pipe tobacco. Traditional advocacy methods require a modern twist in today’s digital age, and we are building a more robust online presence to counter misinformation and embolden grassroots engagement. Through embracing new communication channels and diversifying our advocacy tactics, the PCA’s message will be broadcast to a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions.
By fostering growth within the trade show, strengthening its members, and championing the industry’s interests, the PCA will continue to lead our industry. I’m optimistic that the uncharted territory of the future will be as much about realizing opportunity as it will be about overcoming challenges. I’m privileged to be a part of this effort and continue the legacy of success that is PCA.
– You can reach PCA’s Interim Executive Director Joshua Habursky at joshua@premiumcigars.org.