All episodes

Thomas Schmid interviews Shivam Bihani, the director of AVB International, about the evolving landscape of nicotine pouch regulations. The conversation covers various regulatory challenges faced by nicotine pouches across different markets, focusing on restrictions in the EU, UK, and the US. Thomas and Shivam discuss the potential for bans, flavor restrictions, and tax implications, highlighting the impact of stringent regulations on both manufacturers and consumers. Shivam emphasizes the importance of reasonable regulations rooted in scientific evidence to maximize harm reduction and prevent the rise of black markets. The discussion concludes with insights into how AVB International plans to adapt and...

Host Thomas Schmid welcomes Carolin Goetze, the Global Application and Scientific Coordinator at Detia Degesch Group and an expert with extensive academic and professional background in biological sciences and toxicology. They discuss the critical issue of tobacco beetle populations developing decreased susceptibility to phosphine fumigation, an essential topic for stakeholders in the tobacco industry.

The conversation covers the definition of phosphine resistance versus tolerance, emphasizing the term "decreased susceptibility." Goetze provides detailed insights into the functionality of phosphine gas and its effect on insect respiratory systems. She explains how varying susceptibility of tobacco beetle populations can depend on geographical regions...

Thomas Schmid interviews Sonny Suciawan, the creator of the Mata Hari cigar brand. The conversation begins with a brief history of Mata Hari, a Dutch exotic dancer and alleged spy during World War I, who was executed by the Germans. Sonny explains the brand's ties to Indonesia and discusses the intricacies of its cigar blends, including the types of tobacco used and the taste profiles of the various product lines: Mata Hari Courtesane, Mata Hari Limited Edition 2024, and Mata Hari Java Exotica. The dialogue also covers the production process in Indonesia and the brand's aspirations to introduce Indonesian cigars...

Hosted by Thomas Schmid, this episode focuses on the history and current market strategies of Gawith-Hoggarth Limited, the UK's sole remaining tobacco manufacturer. The company’s director, Rachel Gawith, discusses the company's unique position in the global market, particularly its surprising market presence in several Southeast Asian countries. Rachel also touches upon the company's cautious approach to opening new markets due to production limitations, regulatory challenges, and ensuring sustained product quality. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the importance and benefits of Gawith-Hoggarth exhibiting at InterTabac, a key trade show where the company can meet up with distributors and suppliers...

Thomas Schmid interviews Andreas Schweiger, sales manager at Micro Laser Technology (MLT), about microlaser perforation technology in the tobacco sector. Andreas explains how MLT stands out in the field with its high-performance systems and details the origin of the company, its competition, and technological advancements that make its product unmatched. Schweiger reveals that MLT is the leader in the field due to its innovative polygonal technology, which allows for high-speed perforation producing millions of tiny holes per second, far outpacing competitors.

Schweiger also delves into the practical applications of microlaser perforation in producing light cigarettes and other tobacco products, emphasizing...

The episode features an engaging interview between Thomas Schmid and Emily Sahakian, co-founder of the premium cigar brand, Chateau Diadem. The remarkable growth of Chateau Diadem is underpinned by its success at various trade exhibitions and the dedication of its two founders, Emily and her cousin, Thierry Farah. Emily shares the backstory of the brand, revealing her and her cousin’s lifelong passion for cigars, their playful childhood experiences, and the eventual realization of their dream to create their own brand. She elaborates on initial obstacles and how the brand evolved from a white-label production to being manufactured in its own...

He discusses the challenges he faced, such as gaining clients' trust and overcoming initial slow business years. He emphasizes the importance of repeat business over short-term profits, sharing that his company's success is reflected in returning customers. He highlights the strategic partnerships Prestige Leaf has with various international merchants and emphasizes the importance of aligning common objectives with them. The conversation also touches on the company’s Corporate and Social Responsibility (CSR) activities, including a commitment to supporting sports, arts, education, and community programs. Zafer talks about fis future plans for Prestige Leaf, including expanding into more tobacco-growing countries and possibly...

The interview discusses Rebellion Cigars, a niche company founded in the UK by Mandi and Shaun Wilkinson in 2019, covering the company’s inception, Shaun Wilkinson’s passion for cigars, and the significant challenges faced entering the exclusive cigar market. Host Thomas Schmid also picks Wilkinson’s brains about the production process in a factory in Honduras and the development of Rebellion Cigars’ unique cigar blends. Wilkinson explains the distinctive pink branding and his strategy of naming cigars after favorite rock songs, as well as the launches of a special country music-themed range for the US market and upcoming limited editions. The episode...

Thomas Schmid interviews Waqas Khan, global CEO of Nevcore Innovations, about the misconceptions surrounding nicotine pouches. Khan discusses the unique features and high standards of Clew, a newly launched nicotine pouch brand that has already achieved significant recognition, including FDA approval and winning the MENA Awards. Khan explains the intricate R&D behind Clew's products, their market strategy, and their emphasis on consumer-focused design. He also highlights the importance of consumer education and the differences between synthetic and tobacco-derived nicotine products. The discussion concludes with plans for future expansions and participation in industry events.

Thomas Schmid interviews Guilherme Costa, Vice President of Sales at SWM International. The discussion revolves around the scope of SWM International’s paper products for the nicotine, tobacco, and cannabis industries. Guilherme touches upon the company's two market brands, SWM and Botani, exploring their roles and differences. He also delves into topics like sustainability, compliance with regulations, and the innovative materials used in SWM and Botani products, highlighting how SWM International leverages its global presence to navigate different markets and offer tailored solutions to its clients.