DAVIDOFF, AVO and ZINO: This evening was far more than just your average new product launch

The lights went out. Instead of film trailers, cigars appeared on the giant cinema screen. Seconds later, the guests were virtually whisked from continent to continent, immersed themselves in tobacco fields, met industry legends and became part of a presentation that was more reminiscent of a modern stage show than a traditional product launch.

Anyone who stepped into the former Küchlin Cinema in Basel on 8 June 2026 was in for more than just an ordinary trade event. Oettinger Davidoff had invited specialist retailers from across Switzerland as well as media representatives – and presented the new products from DAVIDOFF, AVO and ZINO in a way rarely seen before in the cigar industry. Interactive elements, live art, simultaneous translation, culinary accompaniment and emotional stories transformed the launch of the new cigars into an experience that went far beyond a traditional presentation.

Photos: Christian Schmid, FotoWerk 132

When you think of cigars, you think of moments like this: an open humidor brimming with possibilities. You’ll find the photo gallery at the end of the article.

A cinema becomes a cigar bar

As soon as we entered the venue, it was clear that a lot of thought had gone into it. The various brand worlds were presented in bold colours, complemented by plants, atmospheric lighting and large-scale displays.

Whilst the golden world of Davidoff was entirely dominated by the new Puro Dominicano, ZINO focused on fresh colours and a spirit of adventure – as the new ZINO Honduras was unveiled. AVO, on the other hand, presented itself as spirited and emotional with the slogan „Burn Brighter“ – a complete brand rebranding is on the cards, and this was evident right down to the new cigar.

The displays didn’t look like traditional sales stands, but rather like little worlds of experience that you could step right into. Brilliant!

Where classic films were once shown, the latest products from DAVIDOFF, AVO and ZINO are now in the spotlight.

Finally on the big stage

A particular highlight was the screening in the large cinema auditorium.

Where classic films once flickered across the screen, the Oettinger Davidoff team now took to the stage to present this year’s new products. The huge screen, the professional lighting and the special atmosphere provided a setting for the event that one doesn’t often experience at trade events.

The message was clear: cigars are much more than just a product. They are stories, emotions and experiences.

Welcome to the 2026 Retailer Event. For the first time, the new products were presented on the main stage of a former cinema.

The Wall That Came to Life

Another surprise was provided by an installation in the hall. Guests were able to have their photograph taken in front of a large brick wall. What at first looked like an ordinary photo backdrop turned into a minor technical spectacle just seconds later.

Using modern light brushes (much like the lightsabres in Star Wars), the artists created graphics and colours around the person being photographed. The wall literally came to life. Lines shot across the stones, swirls of light appeared out of nowhere, and the portraits became part of a digital work of art.

Many guests stopped in amazement and watched the demonstrations several times over. One might expect many things from cigar events – but such a creative blend of art, technology and entertainment is not usually among them.

Interactive artworks were created during the retailer event. Participants were able to have their photograph taken and then leave their personal message on the illuminated wall.

It’s all part of the experience

Of course, the culinary aspect was not neglected either. Small canapés were passed around as specialist retailers, media representatives and industry figures exchanged views. Before and after the presentations, there were discussions, shop-talk and conversations about new products. A little later, there was a wide variety of dishes on offer – and they were absolutely delicious!

Once again, it became clear that such events are much more than mere product launches. They serve as meeting places for an industry in which face-to-face interaction continues to play a central role.

Culinary delights. Amidst cigars and technical discussions, sophisticated canapés provided moments of pure pleasure.

Three brands, three personalities

What was fascinating was the different ways in which the brands were presented.

DAVIDOFF presented itself elegantly. With the new DAVIDOFF Puro Dominicano.

ZINO brings adventure, travel and a spirit of discovery. With the new ZINO Honduras.

AVO focused on creativity, joie de vivre and striking visual elements. With the new AVO Expresivo.

Here, guests were able to experience the new Puro Dominicano with all their senses.

AVO opted for bold colours and powerful emotions – in keeping with the motto «Burn Brighter».

Colourful, unpretentious and curious about the world: that’s how ZINO Honduras presented itself in Basel.

Conclusion

Oettinger Davidoff succeeded in creating a product launch that went well beyond the usual. The former Küchlin Cinema provided the perfect setting for an evening that skilfully combined information, indulgence and entertainment.

There was a great atmosphere in the foyer. With cigars in hand and a twinkle in their eyes for the camera: the relaxed atmosphere at the dealer event led to plenty of spontaneous souvenir photos.

The large cinema screen and the fascinating light art display on the brick wall were particularly memorable. They ensured that many visitors talked not only about new cigars, but also about an experience they hadn’t expected.

Some guests did express regret that smoking was not permitted during the presentation in the former cinema auditorium. However, given the comfortable velvet armchairs still in place, this smoking ban is understandable for fire safety reasons. Personally, it didn’t bother me: the new products could then be enjoyed in a relaxed atmosphere in the foyer and also outside – accompanied by conversation, canapés and precisely the tranquillity that a good cigar deserves.

Or to put it another way: that evening, it wasn’t just cigars that were in the spotlight – but an entire industry.

The new products at a glance.

Resources on the topic

• A sensory storm with the DAVIDOFF Puro Dominicano: When a tasting turned into a big bang

• AVO changes everything: EXPRESIVO is here

• ZINO Honduras: When Honduras suddenly demands more

Photo gallery