Tobacco Business

[ 14 ] TOBACCO BUSINESS [ JULY / AUGUST | 21 ] The most talked about networking opportunity at TPE21 was the Industry Night party, which was held at Drai’s Beachclub and Nightclub atop The Cromwell. Taking advantage of the ideal May weather, TMG opted to move the much-talked-about and highly anticipated opening party outdoors to allow for social distancing and to provide great views of the famed Las Vegas strip. There was music, hors d’oeuvres and plenty of excited attendees ready to socialize after a year of virtual meetings. This was a running theme throughout the three-day show: People were excited to be back together, in person, talking business but also having fun with one another. For TMG, creating a safe environment that encouraged business as well as fun and enjoyment was a major driving force for all things TPE. It was far from the typical trade show. Educational sessions were held online leading up to the show; masks were required, as mandated by the convention center and Clark County Health Department; and some companies and principals weren’t in attendance due to travel restrictions and vaccine scheduling. Still, the show went on, and there was an overwhelming sense of happiness among the exhibitors and attendees that celebrated a return to normalcy. Those that didn’t attend this year’s show may be experiencing a bit of FOMO (fear of missing out), but there’s another opportunity to take part with the next show being just six months away. If you’re wondering if TPE is a show for you or your company, here’s what two of this year’s attendees have to say about why you should book your booth and make plans to attend now: “TPE presents a much larger perspective about the tobacco industry and adjacent industries all under one roof. It also provides a wider breadth of retailers and wholesalers who generally are not as specialized and focused on premium cigars and therefore attend with open minds and willingness to learn,” says Michael Herklots of Ferio Tego. Retailer Kathleen Kelly adds, “I have been telling other retailers and vendors for years to come to this show because, for me, the show is well run, great for networking, and also by having it in the beginning of the year, as a retailer, it is a better time for me to purchase my inventory and also attend the show.” TPE21 would not have been possible without the hard work of TMG’s trade show team: Ben Stimpson, managing director; Ellie Hansen, trade show director; Dawn Conger, sales manager; Carly Gegorek, sales associate; Brian Rodak, digital marketing manager; Scott Gibson, trade show operations and logistics manager; Rachel Esteffe, senior graphic designer; and Lea Edmondson, registration and sales administrator. The show would also not have happened without the faith shown by the attendees and the many exhibitors that chose TPE21 as their first post-pandemic outing. TPE22 will return to Las Vegas Jan. 26-28, 2022, bigger and even better than before. For information about next year’s show, as well as a look back at TPE21, visit tobaccoplusexpo.com. Editor’s Note: Tobacco Plus Expo (TPE) is owned and operated by Tobacco Media Group (TMG), publisher of Tobacco Business and a subsidiary of Kretek International. TB