In September, the Botani team set up shop at InterTabac 2024 in Dortmund, Germany—the world’s largest trade show for tobacco and smoking accessories. This is where top decision-makers from retail, manufacturing and the service sector come together to network, explore new trends, and make deals.
With over 800 exhibitors from 70 countries, the event attracted 20,000 attendees, breaking several previous records. The show’s comprehensive scope covered everything from traditional tobacco products to next-generation alternatives.
As a leader in sustainable papers and botanical processing, Botani was uniquely positioned to address two critical industry needs: environmental solutions and natural alternatives. This dual expertise resonated strongly with attendees looking to future-proof their businesses. Here are five of our main takeaways from the show.
Strong Post-Pandemic Enthusiasm
The mood at InterTabac 2024 was notably upbeat and energized, harkening back to pre-pandemic days. According to a survey taken by Tobacco Journal International, around 94% of the attendees said they wanted to come back next year.
While the show maintained its primarily European base, it also attracted significant participation from Latin American traditional cigarette manufacturers and North American alternative manufacturers.
Surging Interest in Alternatives to Plastic
Environmental consciousness was top of mind, with plastic reduction being a dominant concern among attendees. This is particularly pressing in the EU, where the SUP (Single-Use Plastics) Directive bans plastic items where alternatives exist. Manufacturers are actively seeking sustainable substitutes in various applications, particularly for filter tip bags and cigarette pack wrapping.
Attendees showed strong interest in our transparent paper solutions for their packaging needs. This engagement provided valuable feedback to guide our R&D team in developing paper properties that meet market requirements.
Rise in Botanical Alternatives
Tea has emerged as an especially popular botanical ingredient in the market. Consumers are driving this trend, with a clear demand for smoother, less harsh smoking experiences. The appeal of botanicals extends beyond the ingredients themselves–manufacturers are positioning these products as natural solutions that face fewer regulatory constraints.
With our pioneering expertise in botanical processing, Botani sets the standard in this process. Our expertise in reconstituting hemp and other botanicals into premium wraps and fillers allows manufacturers to enter the growing cannabis pre-roll market with confidence.
Star Power Meets Culture
The show reflected interesting developments in brand positioning, with many companies launching collaborations with pop culture celebrities, including Snoop Dogg, Trailer Park Boys, and Mike Tyson. Some exhibitors created immersive experiences at their booths, transforming spaces into pub-like environments complete with full bars and DJs. The industry is also seeing traditional suppliers develop specific brands targeted at alternative markets.
Traditional Brands Exploring Alternative Territory
There was a slight but notable increase in traditional brands entering alternative markets, but with a distinct approach–like SWM International and Botani, most of these brands are creating separate, new brands specifically for these ventures rather than extending their existing ones. This allows them to maintain the heritage and trust of their tradition while freely innovating in new spaces.
Botani’s presence at InterTabac 2024 reinforced our commitment to driving innovation and sustainability in the cannabis and tobacco industries. As we look ahead, we’re excited to continue collaborating with partners and customers to shape a future where tradition and cutting-edge solutions meet.