In Washington DC, August is typically referred to as a recess period when Congress is out. While it signifies time off for many, the PCA ramped things up and took to the road to participate in marquee industry events, retail visits, and presentations. “It is important for our staff to connect with PCA membership directly through in-person, face-to-face interactions and participate in and support major industry events. Our team has proven that we can multi-task on the road while maintaining necessary outreach remotely with policymakers and members alike.” —Scott Pearce, PCA Executive Director.
BCAA’s Smoke at the Creek Cigar Festival
Earlier this month, the PCA joined the Boutique Cigar Association of America (BCAA) for their annual Smoke at the Creek Cigar Festival, which featured a VIP gathering, food, drinks, and of course, cigars!
Gaby Kafie, owner of Kafie 1901 and founder of the BCAA, offered opening remarks, emphasizing their excitement for next year’s PCA trade show where the BCAA will have a Boutique Cigar Pavilion. Kafie further emphasized the importance of unity during battles, stating “Our industry is very small. It has faced, and will continue to face, some very big regulatory challenges. We must all come together and contribute towards one common goal… the continued growth and prosperity of the premium cigar industry.” The Premium Cigar Association would like to extend our thanks for the invitation and hospitality, and we look forward to continuing a strong and collaborative relationship with the BCAA.
DMV Cigar Week
On Tuesday, August 16th, the Premium Cigar Association participated in a Cigar Town Hall as part of DMV Cigar Week. Scott Pearce, Executive Director of PCA and Joshua Habursky, Deputy Executive Director spoke on a panel covering retail and manufacturer development within the DC Virginia, and Maryland area (DMV). The panel took questions ranging from how to start a retail shop in the area to how manufacturers can develop and connect with others in the industry. Erin Holland, Head of Marketing & Membership, also participated in the event and provided additional information to retailers in attendance. DMV Cigar Week brings people together to learn about the cigar culture in the area and serves to hear from others in the industry while also educating consumers on the region’s deep ties to cigars.
Drew Estate Connecticut Barnsmoker
Earlier this month, the Premium Cigar Association attended Drew Estate’s Connecticut Barnsmoker, which took place at Dunn & Foster Farms in Ellington, Connecticut. The event featured educational sessions about tobacco farming, fermenting, and the science behind premium cigars, as well as experiential activations like rolling your own premium cigar and swag stations featuring the range of Drew Estate products.
Connecticut Continued
While in Connecticut for the Barnsmoker PCA staff also visited with Nick Melillo, owner of Foundation Cigars, in New Haven, Connecticut.
Along the way, PCA also also visited retail member The Owl Shop in New Haven, Connecticut.
Brew City Cigar Festival
PCA’s Deputy Executive Director Joshua Habursky traveled to Milwaukee, Wisconsin to attend Metro Cigar’s Brew City Cigar Festival. Habursky shared information on “What’s Going on in Washington” with hundreds of consumers and retailers at the PCA booth. PCA would like to thank Paul and Jennifer Groh of Metro Cigars for providing PCA with the opportunity to engage with the industry in the Midwest. Habursky also attended an event in support of Rep. Bill Huizenga on behalf of the Premium Cigar PAC in Grand Haven, Michigan and visited PCA retail member Uhle Tobacco Company in downtown Milwaukee.
Rocky Mountain Cigar Festival
On August 27, PCA Executive Director Scott Pearce will be traveling to Colorado to attend the Rocky Mountain Cigar Festival, an event that attracts thousands of consumers to mix and mingle with cigar manufacturers from around the world. While there, Pearce will visit with retail members, interface with manufacturers, and discuss cigar advocacy with consumers.
Major Meetings on the Horizon
PCA staff and the Executive Committee will be meeting with the Center for Tobacco Products and the new CTP Director Dr. Brian King for the first time in early September. In late September, PCA will also participate in a roundtable hosted by the Small Business Administration and will host a luncheon for staff of the Congressional Cigar Caucus.