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cigar culture summit.
The meeting place for the cigar world – Together for the future!
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Cigar Culture Summit – Your meeting place for knowledge, exchange, and new ideas
If you want to help shape the future of cigar culture, the Cigar Culture Summit is the place for you. This is where manufacturers, retailers, media, and industry experts meet to deepen their knowledge, expand their networks, and identify trends early on.
On September 17, the format celebrated its successful premiere as part of InterTabac. On the day before the trade fair began, around 250 participants took advantage of a five-hour specialist program with three themed streams – packed with practical knowledge, discussions, and inspiration.
Together with The Cigar Academy and partners such as Boveda, Villiger Cigars, Casa Turrent, and the Premium Cigar Association, the event offered a comprehensive look at current developments and future topics in the industry.
Cigar Culture Summit 2026: Where expertise meets passion – and contacts turn into collaborations
The STREAMS of the cigar culture summit 2025
Stream 1: Cigar industry panels
Convening the most influential voices in the premium cigar ecosystem—producers, policymakers, artisans, suppliers and cultural thinkers—for a series of deep, future-focused conversations. The Cigar Culture Summit panel programme is designed as a compact, 5 hours conference to explore the innovation, identity, and international dynamics that define and challenge the cigar world today.
Stream 2: Educational Workshops
This stream invites curious minds and connoisseurs alike to go beyond the surface of cigar enjoyment—into the craftsmanship, rituals, preservation, and stories that define the world’s most enduring cultural luxury.
Stream 3: German market specialist cigar and pipe retailers
Mission: To keep the spirit of cigar culture alive and develop it further—through exchange, inspiration, and genuine encounters. The Cigar Culture Summit brings together people who shape the specialist trade in the DACH region with their passion, expertise, and personal commitment—and provides new impetus for a future in which enjoyment, culture, and expertise go hand in hand.
Objective: To strengthen specialist retailers—not only professionally, but also emotionally.
Objective: To strengthen specialist retailers – not only professionally, but also emotionally. The Cigar Culture Summit aims to provide guidance in times of change: through practical knowledge, new perspectives on enjoyment, community, and brand management – and through the shared experience of what makes the specialist trade so special. The goal is to sharpen one’s own profile, be inspired, and start the future with new ideas, more self-confidence, and fresh enthusiasm.
PROGRAMME
17. September 2025, 13:00 – 18:00 Uhr, North Entrance
Stream 1:
Manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors and suppliers in room “London”
13:00 – 13:05
Welcome & Opening Remarks
13:05 – 13:50
PANEL 1: Tobacco Evolution – Innovation, Terroir, Fermentation, Blends & Quality Trends
Join leading tobacco growers and master blenders as they explore how tradition and innovation merge to reshape quality. Discover breakthroughs in varietals, fermentation, terroir, and sustainable production shaping the future of tobacco craftsmanship.
Moderator: Ricardo Carioni (The Cigar Academy) Speakers: Pedro Ventura (Tabacalera de García, Oscar Valladares (Oscar Valladares Tobacco & Co.), Gennaro Lettieri (Puro Incas), Alejandro Turrent (Casa Turrent), Claudio Sgroi (CST Cunsulting)
14:00 – 14:45
PANEL 2: Rooted in Responsibility – Building a Sustainable Future for Tobacco Regions
The luxury of a fine cigar rests on the shoulders of rural communities. This session addresses the environmental, labor, and socio-economic realities in producing nations—and how sustainability, education, and ethical supply chains are becoming the new standard.
Moderator: Luciano Meireles (Luciano Cigars) Speakers: Cristian Eiroa (CLE), Jorge Luis Fernández Maique (Casa Carillo), Tabacalera Alberto Turrent, Mercedes Vázquez (ITGA), Ricardo Carioni (Premium Cigar Association, TCA), Benoit Pirard (Oliva Cigars/VCF)
14:45 – 15:00 Coffee break
15:00 – 15:30
Specialist Session: Cigar Bands – Craft Meets Identity
A niche deep dive into the artistic and technical craft of cigar bands—from design storytelling to production innovation.
Host: Henk Nota (Vrijdag)
15:35 – 16:20
PANEL 3: From Leaf to Law – Who Protects the Soul of the Cigar?
In a world of intensifying global regulation, this panel explores how legal frameworks impact access, authenticity, and the identity of premium cigars. Voices from law, lobbying, and heritage brands examine the future of cigar rights in the face of evolving rules.
Moderator: Ricardo Carioni (The Cigar Academy) Speakers:
Drew Newman (JC Newman), Joshua Habursky (PCA), Scott
Pearce (CAA), Bodo Mehrlein (German Cigar Manufacturers
Association in representation of ECMA), Ann-Pascale
Mommerency (FECIBEL), Leonhard Kipphan (Osapiens)
16:25 – 17:10
PANEL 4: The New Face of Tradition – Reimagining Cigar Culture for a New Generation
How do you engage a new generation without diluting authenticity? This panel examines how brands are using immersive storytelling, social platforms, and lifestyle positioning to stay relevant while honoring the soul of the cigar.
Moderator: Eric Calvino (Cigar Snob Magazine) Speakers: Nick Melillo (Foundation Cigars), Vivian Eiroa (Aladino Cigars), Pierre Jebian (Humidif Group), Boveda (tbn), Maik Neubauer (Stauffenberg Cigars)
17:15 – 18:00
PANEL 5: Entering Global Growth Markets – Strategic Pathways into Asia, the Middle East & Africa
As global demand migrates eastward and southward, this panel offers strategic insights into some of the most promising—and complex—growth regions. From regulatory navigation to local market dynamics, and from cultural nuance to diplomatic positioning, this is a roadmap to international expansion.
Moderator: Jorge Tapies (Cigars Journal) Speakers: Luciano
Meireles (Luciano Cigars), Eric Piras (Cigraal), Raed
Saqfelhait (The Leaf Master), Kristian Kristo (The Humidor –
Seles), David Fernandez (TPG Group)
Stream 2:
Wholesalers, distributors, retailers and CigarClubs in room “Brügge”
13:00 – 13:05
Welcome & Opening Remarks
13:05 – 13:50
Humidity Made Simple: Elevate Your Cigars with Boveda
Humidity isn’t just about preservation—it’s about performance. This practical workshop demystifies humidity control, debunks common myths, and empowers retailers, collectors, and aficionados to optimize their humidor environments using precision and simplicity.
Led by: Benny Patock (Boveda)
14:00 – 14:45
The Legacy and Flavor of Villiger Cigars
Step into the storied heritage of Villiger—one of the world’s most respected names in premium cigars. In this immersive session, participants will discover the art of balancing tradition and innovation, accompanied by a guided pairing of Villiger cigars with aged port wines.
Hosted by: Felix Wallenhorst (Villiger Cigars)
14:45 – 15:00 Coffee break
15:00 – 15:30
Practical, educational cigar tasting session with Luciano Meirelles, Luciano Cigars, President of Constella USA.
With Luciano Meirelles (Luciano Cigars)
15:35 – 16:20
Cigar Ratings Unwrapped: The Method, the Myth, and the Market
Uncover the truth behind cigar scores—how ratings, tastings, and awards shape buying decisions. Is it science, experience, or storytelling? Learn to trust your palate amid the noise.
Presented by: Katja Gnann (Cigar Journal)
16:25 – 17:10
Fermentation & Aging – The Art Behind Flavour and Aroma
Fermentation and aging are rituals that unlock complexity and elegance. This masterclass reveals how science and time shape aroma, body, and flavor—turning leaf into legacy.
Led by: Claudio Sgroi (CST Consultung) in partnership with The Cigar Academy
17:15 – 18:00
Beyond the Box: Innovation, Aesthetics & Functionality in Cigar Packaging
Discover how packaging has evolved into storytelling and brand identity. Explore cutting-edge technology, sustainable materials, and luxury design transforming cigar presentation and preservation.
Presented by: Pierre Jebian & Michael Ficara (Humidif Group)
Stream 3:
Specialist cigar and pipe retailers in room “Bergen”
The entire stream program is in German
13:00 – 13:05
Welcome & Opening Remarks
13:05 – 13:50
From Spark to Flame: How to Keep Your Passion Alive in Turbulent Times
Employee motivator, product multiplier, leadership culture, self-motivation, and purpose-driven retail – discover how to reignite your inner fire and inspire others in the ever-changing world of premium tobacco.
Speaker: Mike Assmann (smokerspress-
Kolumnist/SmokersBusinessAcademy-Partner Foodhunter/Verleger)
14:00 – 14:45
Evolving Enjoyment
Gain insights into the behavior, product preferences, and experience-driven shopping habits of emerging consumer groups shaping the future of cigar culture.
Speaker: Johann Gallée (Dios Tabaco)
14:45 – 15:00 Coffee break
15:00 – 15:30
Boosting Sales through Events, Tastings & Personalization
How curated tasting nights, expert training sessions, and tailored customer consultations can turn casual visitors into loyal clients.
Speaker: Thomas Geissler (CigarPorn/Zigarrenkombinat)
15:35 – 16:20
In the Web of the Cigar: Community-Building in the Premium Tobacco World
Whether in a cozy lounge, at an exclusive tasting, or across the
boundless landscape of the web — cigars thrive on community.
But how can we build a loyal following today that not only brings
people together, but also strengthens brand loyalty and drives
sales?
Moderator: Reinhard Pohorec (Light’em Up) Teilnehmer: Martin Zurek (Etwas Genuss), Nicolas Kröger (Wagemut), Johann Gallée (Dios Tabaco), Sebastian Gollas (Starke Zigarren)
16:25 – 17:10
Cigars and Cigarillos Under the Spotlight of Regulation
Current developments and future requirements in the evolving
regulatory landscape.
Speaker: Bodo Mehrlein (BdZ)
17:15 – 18:00
The Role of the Specialist Retailer – Building Trust through Expertise at the POS
Knowledge and personality as unique selling points in the specialty store.
Speaker: Martin Josuks (Unternehmensgruppe Dr. Eckert GmbH)
As an exhibitor, you don’t have to miss out on checking on your stand and the set-up during the conference – you can access the sessions again at any time with your ticket.
19:30 – Cigar Reception: Where new connections are made
The Cigar Reception – one of the most anticipated highlights of the Summit – offers an exclusive networking and entertainment experience, providing both relaxed conversation and valuable professional contacts.
Look forward to the perfect mix of exquisite cigars, fine drinks, great company and inspiring conversations. Meet industry leaders, aficionados and experts to exchange ideas, develop new ones and celebrate cigar culture in style.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to make valuable contacts, promote cooperation and enjoy an unforgettable evening!
cigar culture Summit 2026
Maximize your impact by organizing an exclusive course or pairing experience and benefit from one of our sponsorship packages. Position your brand for the future and secure your place at this premier industry summit!
In cooperation with
Gold sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
Spirits
Partner
Media Partner
Interested in the Cigar Culture Summit 2026?
Would you like to actively participate in the event and act as a sponsor? We look forward to hearing from you!
Katrin Fischer
Project Director
