Mid-September, and the attention of tobacco and nicotine businesses was once again drawn to the German city of Dortmund as the latest edition of InterTabac, the industry’s global flagship trade event, opened its doors for three days of networking, conferences and exhibitions.
At 13,500, visitor numbers were said to be up on 2022, while exhibitor representation was also strong with 680 companies (representing 60 different countries) showcasing their latest concepts and innovations.
Delegations attended from Honduras, Panama, the Dominican Republic, Indonesia and Cuba, while the Consulate General of Turkey and the Romanian Chamber of Foreign Trade were also present. Over half of all visitors were from overseas, with the USA, Canada, Brazil and Colombia said to have been especially well represented.
While classic tobacco products proved very much the mainstay, reduced-risk and even nicotine-free products were also extremely prominent, with nearly a quarter of exhibitors showcasing e-cigarette products. Notably, the day before the show saw the launch of the Global Vape Alliance, a new initiative which aims to coordinate global resources and promote sustainable development and collaboration between vaping businesses.
Meanwhile, the Supporting Programme included “Speed Fire Presentations” where next-generation brands presented their latest innovations. Other highlights were the presentation of the Cannabis Trend Report, the InterTabac Star awards and a panel discussion on reduced-risk products.
Out on the show floor, the most exciting innovations proved to be in the nicotine-free space, with ingredients such as tea and coffee being touted as alternatives to traditional tobacco in both the vaping and heated tobacco categories. Elsewhere, nicotine pouches where branching out with functional ingredients, brand licensing concepts proved popular, and supplements (especially with an energizing benefit) emerged as an alternative to nicotine pouches.
InterTabac returns to Dortmund in 2024 for its next edition, beginning on 19th September.