Tuesday, February 27, 2024
The 24th Habano Festival kicked off with its signature Welcome Evening at Club Habana, heralding a week-long celebration of Corporación Habanos, S.A.’s 30th anniversary. This event, set against the backdrop of the Atlantic, welcomed 1,200 guests including distributors, diplomats, and cigar enthusiasts from around the world to celebrate three decades of leadership in the premium cigar industry. Since its inception in 1994, Habanos, S.A. has been a pivotal player in the marketing of Habanos, securing its place as the premier global entity in the field. With operations extending over 130 countries and managing 27 top-tier brands, the corporation has seen its revenue double over the past two decades, showcasing its robust growth and market strength.
The event spotlighted Habanos, S.A.’s critical role in amalgamating its brands into a cohesive marketing framework, achieving a consistent level of excellence and uniqueness. The company’s steadfast dedication to brand integrity, quality, and the preservation of tradition in crafting Habanos is globally acknowledged for their unique taste and exceptional craftsmanship.
The Welcome Evening was more than a celebration; it was a journey through the corporation’s storied history, brought to life with outstanding performances by celebrated artists like the Boyeros Band, Ernesto Blanco, D’Eva Group, Failde Orchestra, and Elito Revé. Coupled with a video mapping presentation that chronicled the 30-year journey of the corporation, the evening offered an engaging experience that captivated all present.
Maritza Carrillo González and Luis Sánchez-Harguindey Pardo de Vera, co-presidents of Habanos, S.A., delivered heartfelt speeches, expressing gratitude towards everyone who played a part in the corporation’s three-decade-long success story, from cigar lovers and distributors to the dedicated employees of Corporación Habanos, S.A.
The evening showcased an exquisite selection of cigars including Cohiba Siglo IV, Montecristo Open Eagle, Partagás Serie P No.Romeo y Julieta Short Churchills, Hoyo de Monterrey Le Hoyo de Rio Seco, and H. Upmann Connossieur No. 2. These distinguished vitolas, celebrated for their renown over the past 30 years, were the highlights of this unique gathering.
2024: A YEAR OF CELEBRATION
The year 2024 marks not only the 30th anniversary of Habanos, S.A. but also significant milestones for some of its most iconic brands. Trinidad and Quai D’Orsay celebrate their 55th and 50th anniversaries, respectively, while San Cristóbal de La Habana marks 25 years of its history. The year promises to be memorable, as the corporation aims to elevate Habanos’ global presence and uphold its status as a hallmark of Cuban heritage and culture.
The event also saw the announcement of the 2023 Habanos Awards nominees: Sami Alrayhani, Mohammed Mohebi, and René D. Valdés Miller in the Business category; Reyniel Rojas Medina, Ana Isel Mederos, and Noel Rolando Benítez in the Production category; and Annie Lorenzo, Kirby Michael Allison, and Fabio Ballestracci in the Communication category. The winners will be unveiled during the Gala Night, adding to the festival’s anticipation.
Tuesday, February 27, 2024