Last week during the Total Product Expo, otherwise known as TPE, we learned of the dates for the 2026 show which may come to a shocking surprise to those in the premium cigar category. Next year’s show will take place from March 31st through April 2nd. Why is this strange? Well in addition to being much later than it normally is, it takes place only a few weeks prior to the Premium Cigar Association Trade Show and Convention. That show takes place from April 17th through the 20th in New Orleans, Louisiana.
As I said in my TPE recap story, this short window will only further divide the two shows. Kretek says that this was the only available slot that was available to them according to the Las Vegas Convention Center. When push comes to shove, most manufacturers will attend PCA over TPE as it is the premier show in our category. Although, several larger manufacturers told Smokin Tabacco they would attend at the bare minimum (single table and sales rep) to support Kretek.
I estimate this kills premium cigars in the TPE show no later than 2027, unless the show moves and /or changes its current system.
