BdZ sets course with new Board of Directors

Die Tabak Zeitung // On June 24, the general meeting of the Federal Association of the Cigar Industry (BdZ) took place in Berlin.

In addition to formal association matters, the focus was on current and future regulatory challenges. In particular, the focus was on the planned changes to the Tobacco Tax Directive and the Tobacco Products Directive at EU level.

The BdZ reiterated its central demand that cigars and cigarillos should continue to be exempt from strict tobacco regulations as a luxury and cultural good. The association represents the interests of medium-sized and family-run manufacturers and importers and advocates differentiated regulation that respects the special characteristics of cigars and cigarillos.

During the meeting, the members elected the new Executive Board. Gregor Meier-Pohlmann (Dannemann) was confirmed as Chairman; Thomas Strickrock (Arnold Andre) takes over as Deputy Chairman. With this personnel decision, the BdZ is relying on experience and stability in the association’s management.

The meeting also marked the start of a festive anniversary: the Federal Association of the Cigar Industry has been committed to the industry for 75 years. In its anniversary year, the BdZ continues to emphasize its claim to promote the culture of enjoyment and to vigorously represent the interests of the industry.