Gama spoke to Sabine Loos, Managing Director of Westfalenhallen Unternehmensgruppe, ahead of the latest edition of InterTabac.
What are your expectations for this edition of Inter Tabac?
InterTabac is a real, long-lasting success story and over decades has established itself as a global platform for the tobacco industry. for the forthcoming 2024 edition, the signs are promising to say the least: despite challenging conditions, we have had a positive response from the industry, which is already reflected in a strong level of bookings; advance ticket sales also going very well. I am in no doubt that InterTabac will once again be the central meeting point for the industry in 2024, where innovations can be showcased, connections can be made, and where we can shape the future of the tobacco industry together.
What key trends are you noticing in tobacco, nicotine and adjacent product categories (such as nicotine alternatives) this year?
Although classic cigarettes still have a role, there has been a growing interest among consumers in smoking alternatives in recent years. This is reflected in the increasing variety of products in the sector, ranging from heated tobacco and e-cigarettes through to single-use shisha, pouches and other disposable products. This trend and the high levels of growth in these categories show that consumers are demanding a broad selection of products and consumer behaviour is individual. When it comes to cigars, we are seeing a growing appreciation for hand-rolled products and the highest quality. Connoisseurs value the origin, the flavour and the craftsmanship behind every cigar.
You are placing a special focus on spirits at this year’s show. What was the rationale for this move, and what synergies do you see between the spirits and tobacco industries?
In our newly designed area, visitors will for the first time have the opportunity to find out about spirits and related products in one place and to maximise business opportunities. For us, this is a logical step that responds to growing interest in spirits. We are looking forward to feedback from our visitors and will use this to shape future development. We are confident the launch will be beneficial for both exhibitors and visitors.
About Inter Tabac
At the trade fair duo InterTabac and InterSupply from 19th to 21st September, 2024, trade visitors meet top decision-makers from retail, manufacturing and the service sector. The world’s leading event for the tobacco industry brings together international market leaders and industry representatives from all areas at Messe Dortmund.