By Kevin Dankman
By CHAMPS Magazine Staff
By Bernie Boulders
By Kevin Dankman
By CHAMPS Magazine Staff
By Bernie Boulders
ISSUE 63 | NOVEMBER 2024
Writing
Bernie Boulders
CHAMPS Show Magazine Staff
Kevin Dankman
Photography
CHAMPS Show Magazine Staff
Dmill Photography
Design & Layout
Sixxx
Publisher
CHAMPS Trade Shows
Editorial Director
Kevin Dankman
Ad Sales
Kevin Dankman Becca Office 818-616-7424
By Kevin Dankman
Rolling into the CHAMPS Trade Show in Denver this year felt distinctly di erent—a mix of nostalgia and excitement hung in the air. After a successful 13-year run in the Mile High City, the renowned trade show was bidding farewell to Denver. Local enthusiasts and industry professionals came out in full force to celebrate one last time, making it one of the busiest Colorado shows in recent years.
The energy on the show oor was electric, with Buyers eager to make the most of the nal Denver CHAMPS. Two lucky shops walked away with an extra $1,000 each. On Day One, Adam from Vitrum Smoke Shop in Houston, Texas, took home the cash prize. Day Two saw Crown Smoke Shop from Elizabethtown, Kentucky, claim the winnings. Both winners wasted no time, reinvesting their prizes right back into the bustling marketplace. ($1000 winner images
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Among the highlights were the Glass Games and the Goblet Grab contest, which boasted its largest turnout of goblets in years. The competition was erce, but ultimately, Colorado native Matt Z clinched rst place in the Goblet Grab, edging out Shayla of Windstar Glass, who took second place, and Pedro Grime who secured third.
The "Make It a Set" game was another crowd-pleaser, showcasing creative sets ranging from intricate tables and bongs to elaborate 11-piece smoker collections. Glass Smith emerged victorious, taking rst place, followed by Stephen Boehme second, and Rye Dyer rounding out the top three.
The excitement didn't stop there. The "Ménage à Trois" event, a three-person collaboration challenge, brought together some of the nest talents in the industry. The rst-place team comprised Ben Burton, Shayla of Windstar Glass, and Shackman. Second-place honors went to Alec Blows Glass, Rye Dyer, and Jack Albershardt, while the third-place team included JSmart Glass, Jeremiah, and Jenna of 7ten Glass. All three artists on the winning team go to the Masters.
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As the nal day drew to a close, it was clear that this CHAMPS Trade Show was a tting tribute to Denver's vibrant glass community. The event celebrated not only the end of an era but also the enduring spirit and creativity that have de ned the local scene for over a decade. It was a memorable farewell, marking the end of CHAMPS in Denver with the same enthusiasm and camaraderie that has always made it special.
By CHAMPS Magazine Staff
Black Friday is one of the biggest retail events of the year, and it’s a golden opportunity for smoke shops and vape shops to boost sales and attract new customers. To make the most of this shopping frenzy, you’ll need a well-thought-out strategy that combines enticing promotions, e ective marketing, and an exceptional customer experience. Here’s how you can maximize your Black Friday sales and stand out from the competition.
Start planning your Black Friday strategy well in advance. Analyze your previous sales data to identify best-selling products and trends. Ensure you have adequate stock of popular items, such as premium vape devices, high-quality e-liquids, and trending accessories. Don’t forget to stock up on essentials like rolling papers, grinders, and CBD products, which can be great add-ons for customers looking for deals.
Black Friday shoppers are looking for value, so consider creating exclusive deals and bundles that o er signi cant savings. Bundle popular products together at a discounted price or o er a “Buy One, Get One” deal on select items. Highlight limited-time o ers, like 50% o on selected items or “doorbuster” deals for the rst 50 customers. The goal is to create a sense of urgency and excitement that drives foot tra c to your store.
email on the day before Black Friday. Include exclusive discounts for subscribers to encourage loyalty and repeat business.
A great in-store experience can turn a one-time shopper into a loyal customer. Make sure your store is well-organized and easy to navigate, especially if you expect a large crowd. Train your sta to be knowledgeable and friendly, and equip them with the tools they need to upsell and cross-sell e ectively. Consider o ering complimentary items, such as branded lighters or stickers, to customers who spend above a certain amount.
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With more consumers shopping online, it’s crucial to o er a seamless e-commerce experience. Ensure your website is updated with your Black Friday deals and promotions, and make it easy for customers to navigate and purchase items. Consider o ering curbside pickup or local delivery for added convenience. This not only caters to customers who prefer to shop online but also helps you manage in-store crowds.
Show appreciation to your loyal customers by o ering them early access to your Black Friday deals. This can be done through a VIP email list or an exclusive in-store event before the general sale begins. Consider o ering additional perks like extra discounts or freebies for your most loyal patrons. This helps to build brand loyalty and encourages repeat business.
Make Black Friday a memorable experience by hosting an event at your store. Consider a product demonstration, a meet-and-greet with local in uencers, or a ra e with exciting prizes. Create a festive atmosphere with music, decorations, and refreshments. This not only attracts more foot tra c but also makes your store a fun and welcoming place to shop.
During and after Black Friday, encourage your customers to share their purchases and experiences on social media. Create a unique hashtag for your store and o er incentives, such as a discount on their next purchase, for customers who post about their Black Friday haul. This helps to generate buzz around your store and attract more customers.
After the Black Friday rush, take time to evaluate your sales performance and
were most e ective and which products were in highest demand. Gather feedback from your sta and customers to identify areas for improvement. Use these insights to re ne your strategy for future events.
By carefully planning your Black Friday strategy and creating a seamless shopping experience, you can signi cantly boost your sales and build a stronger customer base. Remember, preparation is key, so start early and make sure your store is ready to handle the excitement of the biggest shopping day of the
By Bernie Boulders
It was a crisp, cold Christmas Eve at the North Pole. The elves were putting the nishing touches on the toys, Mrs. Claus was baking gingerbread cookies, and the reindeer were anxiously pawing the ground, ready for the long night ahead. Santa Claus, with his jolly belly shaking like a bowl full of jelly, was making his nal preparations.
As Santa harnessed the reindeer to his sleigh, he noticed something strange. The sky above the North Pole, usually shimmering with the colorful hues of the Northern Lights, was swirling with an unusual, dark vortex. A crackling energy lled the air, causing Santa to pause and look up in wonder.
“What in the world?” Santa muttered to himself. He had seen many things in his centuries of delivering presents, but nothing quite like this.
Before Santa could react, the vortex opened wider, pulling him and his sleigh with a force stronger than a blizzard. The reindeer neighed in alarm as the sleigh was sucked into the swirling darkness. The world around Santa blurred, the familiar snow-covered landscape of the North Pole disappearing into a whirl of colors and sounds.
When the sleigh nally came to a halt, Santa found himself in a very di erent place. A dry, dusty wind replaced the cold, crisp air of the North Pole. The snow was gone, replaced by sand and sagebrush. Santa’s sleigh had landed in the middle of a vast desert, under a blazing sun, with the sound of distant hoofbeats and gun re echoing in the distance.
“Where on Earth am I?” Santa wondered aloud, climbing out of his sleigh. His red suit, made for the cold North Pole, was ill-suited for the sweltering heat. The reindeer pawed at the ground, confused and uneasy.
Santa looked around and saw a small town in the distance, the kind of town he had only ever seen in Western lms. Wooden buildings lined a dusty street, with a saloon, a general store, and a sheri ’s o ce. Cowboys and townsfolk were bustling about, but everyone stopped and stared as Santa and his reindeer appeared out of nowhere.
Santa’s arrival didn’t go unnoticed. The townsfolk, not knowing what to make of the jolly man in the bright red suit, began to whisper among themselves. Some thought he was a new lawman, others thought he was a circus performer, but none could explain how he had arrived in such a strange contraption.
As Santa tried to get his bearings, a group of rough-looking cowboys sauntered over. Their leader, a tall man with a bushy mustache and a battered Stetson hat, eyed Santa suspiciously.
“Who in tarnation are you?” the cowboy demanded.
“I’m Santa Claus,” Santa replied, trying to keep his usual jolly tone, though he was feeling quite out of place. “And I’m afraid I’m a bit lost.”
The cowboy chuckled, a low, gravelly sound. “Santa Claus, huh? Never heard of ya. But if you’re lookin’ for trouble, you’ve come to the right place.”
Santa shook his head. “No trouble at all, my friend. I’m just trying to nd my way back home.”
Before the cowboy could respond, the ground beneath them began to rumble. The townsfolk scattered, and the cowboys drew their guns, but there was no immediate threat. Instead, the source of the rumbling was a large group of riders approaching the town from the east. They were Native Americans, dressed in traditional clothing, their faces painted for war.
The cowboys and townsfolk took defensive positions, fearing an attack, but Santa stepped forward, his instincts telling him that something else was afoot.
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As the riders approached, Santa could see that they were led by a tall, stern-faced chief, with long, black hair and an eagle-feather headdress. The chief rode at the head of the group, his eyes scanning the town with a look of determination.
The chief halted his horse in front of Santa, who stood calmly despite the tension in the air. The two locked eyes, and for a moment, it seemed as though the world held its breath.
Finally, the chief spoke in a deep, resonant voice. “I am Chief Thunderhawk of the Lakota. We come in peace, seeking justice.”
Santa, ever the diplomat, nodded respectfully. “I am Santa Claus, and I too seek peace.”
Chief Thunderhawk’s eyes narrowed, studying the man before him. “Santa Claus… I have heard stories of you, old one. They say you are a spirit of giving, bringing joy to the children of the world.”
Santa smiled warmly. “The stories are true, my friend. But I seem to have found myself far from home.”
The chief nodded solemnly. “You are far from your land, but perhaps the spirits have brought you here for a reason.”
Before Santa could ask what he meant, the cowboy leader interrupted, his hand on the butt of his revolver. “Now hold on just a minute. What kind of justice are you talkin’ about, Chief?”
Zion Herbals has long been a pioneer in the kratom industry, consistently delivering innovative and high-quality products. Their latest release, the Lucky 90 Tablets, continues this tradition and sets a new standard for kratom supplements.
The first thing you'll notice is the packaging. With silver reflective text on a matte black background, it exudes a sense of sophistication and power. It's not just about aesthetics; the packaging is also informative, providing all the necessary details without clutter.
One of the most significant improvements is the tablet size. These seemed to be about half the size of traditional kratom tablets, making them much easier to swallow. If you've ever struggled with large pills, this is a welcome change that enhances the overall user experience.
Initially, I expected the Lucky 90 Tablets to be just another standard kratom product. However, they exceeded my expectations. The effects were immediate and remarkable — comparable to the heightened focus depicted in the movie "Limitless." I experienced a surge of energy and concentration that helped me stay on task throughout the day. It wasn't just a fleeting boost; the benefits were sustained and without the jitters often associated with other supplements.
Zion Herbals is known for its dedication to quality, and the Lucky 90 Tablets are no exception. They source premium kratom leaves and employ rigorous testing to ensure purity and potency. This commitment gives users peace of mind, knowing they're consuming a reliable product.
The Lucky 90 Tablets are a testament to Zion Herbals' expertise and innovation in the kratom industry. By addressing common issues like tablet size and delivering potent effects, they've created a product that stands out. Whether you're a seasoned kratom user or new to herbal supplements, these tablets offer an experience that's both convenient and effective.
Disclaimer: Consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
Kratom's legal status varies by location; ensure it's legal in your area before purchasing or consuming.
As autumn arrives, we often anticipate the familiar fall fragrances featuring pumpkin spice and other seasonal delights. These scents usually find their place in my garage or bathroom, ready to tackle unexpected odors. This year, however, brings a refreshing change with entirely new offerings from Smoke Odor Eliminator: the Sean Dietrich Candle Line and a new water-based spray line
First up is the Sean Dietrich Candle Line. Sean is a renowned figure in our industry—a talented artist who not only crafts captivating fragrances but also creates stunning cover art for us. In fact, the cover of this very issue was designed by him.
The first scent I tried was Mushroom Lounge. This fragrance perfectly captures Sean's unique style, reminiscent of stepping out for an evening of relaxation. It's a musky, clean aroma with sweet hints of vanilla that create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. We loved it so much that we've placed this scent in every room of our house.
Next on the list was Mesmereyes Clean and invigorating, this scent transported me to great summer afternoons on the beach, with linens swaying gently in the sea breeze. The blend of sea mist, citrus, and fresh florals offers a delightful change from traditional autumn fragrances. It's so enchanting that you'd hope big-brand scent companies don't catch wind of it—it truly strikes a rare note in the olfactory senses.
I concluded my candle exploration with Fierce. This scent captures that invigorating freshness that fills a room when someone steps in after a rejuvenating shower. It uplifts the atmosphere, not just with its clean aroma but with an underlying warmth that's both inviting and comforting. It's the kind of fragrance you'd love to have lingering on your pillow or favorite sweater. Be warned, though—this scent is highly addictive!
After indulging in the candles, I turned my attention to the new water-based formula spray Unlike others on the market, this spray doesn't leave any oily residue where it lands, making it ideal for use on fabrics and in cars. While it might take a couple more pumps compared to the original sprays to effectively neutralize unwanted odors, it stays true to the authentic aromas of the Smoke Odor Eliminator line.
Out of the new spray scents, Dragon's Blood stood out as my personal favorite. Its rich, earthy fragrance with hints of sweet and spicy notes makes it perfect for refreshing any space.
These new products provide a refreshing departure from the typical seasonal scents. Whether you're a fan of candles or sprays, there's something in this lineup that will appeal to your senses and effectively tackle unwanted odors. Versatile and Effective Candles: The Sean Dietrich Candle Line offers unique fragrances that not only mask odors but enhance the ambiance of any room.
Sprays: The new water-based sprays are perfect for a quick refresh without the worry of residue, making them ideal for use on upholstery, linens, and more.
In conclusion, Smoke Odor Eliminator's latest offerings are a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their home's fragrance game this autumn. The combination of unique scents and effective odor elimination makes these products stand out in a crowded market. Whether you're combating unexpected odors or simply wanting to enjoy a delightful aroma, these candles and sprays have got you covered.
Disclaimer: Always use candles and sprays according to the manufacturer's instructions. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Ensure proper ventilation when using scented products to maintain air quality.
In my continuous exploration of natural supplements from Steding and Sons, I have already reviewed two of their highest-selling products, the Non-ASS and Lazy Luau.
I recently tried two other products that left a significant impression: Athena's Elixir and Big Mama's Guava Kava Kava Shots. Both offered unique experiences that catered to different needs—energy enhancement and stress relief.
I decided to test Athena's Elixir, a distinctive blend featuring Kratom, Kava Kava, Lion's Mane, and caffeine sourced from Guarana. I often hit an energy lull around 2-3 p.m., so I chose this time to see how the elixir would affect me.
Intriguing Flavor and Experience: The flavor is both intriguing and hard to describe. It reminded me of a beverage called ROOTS that I once enjoyed deep in the jungles of Jamaica, but Athena's Elixir surpasses it in both taste and effect. The blend of ingredients creates a unique palate experience that's both exotic and refreshing.
Balanced Energy and Focus: After taking the elixir, I felt a renewed sense of focus that helped me finish my workday strong. The combination of ingredients seemed to synergize perfectly, providing a balanced boost without any jitters or crashes. It was a smooth, sustained energy that felt natural. I would definitely use it again and recommend it to anyone needing a natural afternoon pick-me-up.
Big Mama's Guava Kava Kava Shots: Quick Stress Relief: Another product I ventured to try was the Big Mama's Guava Kava Kava Shots. I waited until a particularly stressful period in my month to truly gauge its effectiveness.
Delightful Guava Flavor with a Hint of Tartness: The guava flavor is pleasantly prominent, offering a sweet note that's immediately enjoyable. The Kava Kava introduces a slight tartness, adding depth to the taste without overpowering the sweetness. Compared to my only other Kava experience—a Chocolate Kava Shake at the Kava Shack in Key West—this shot was quick, convenient, and far more enjoyable.
Calming Effects You Can Feel: Within minutes, I felt stress and anxiety start to melt away. The calming effects were noticeable yet subtle, allowing me to remain focused while feeling more at ease. It didn't induce drowsiness but provided a gentle relaxation that was just what I needed. I'm extremely happy with the result and plan to keep this on hand for those moments when stress levels peak.
I've said it before, but it bears repeating: Stock this brand in your store now! While their products might not be the least expensive on the market, they offer some of the most advanced formulations that appeal to a wide range of customers. The quality and effectiveness justify the price, making it a worthwhile investment for both retailers and consumers.
The advanced formulations and high-quality ingredients set these products apart. They cater to those who are willing to invest a bit more for something that truly works. Whether you're seeking an energy boost without the crash or a natural way to alleviate stress, these products deliver on their promises.
Overall, both Athena's Elixir and Big Mama's Guava Kava Kava Shots exceeded my expectations. They provide natural and effective solutions for energy enhancement and stress relief, respectively. I look forward to exploring more of their products in the future and highly recommend them to anyone seeking high-quality, natural supplements.
Disclaimer: Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen. Be aware of the ingredients and ensure they are appropriate for your health conditions. Additionally, verify the legal status of these products in your area before purchasing or consuming them.
Green Shores Nutra has introduced a game-changer in the kratom market with their Voodoo Chocolate Gel Kratom. As a foodie and an occasional kratom user, I was intrigued by the unique presentation and flavor of this product. Little did I know it would inspire a delightful culinary experiment: Kratom Cakes!
Upon my first taste of the Voodoo Chocolate Gel, a spectacular idea struck me. With a box of strawberry cake mix waiting in my pantry, I decided to bake fluffy strawberry cupcakes topped with a sweet chocolate kratom frosting. The fusion of strawberry and chocolate is a classic, but adding kratom into the mix was an exciting twist.
For the initial try, I used the pure gel straight out of the packet as a frosting on a cupcake. The taste was surprisingly great—rich chocolate with the earthy undertones of kratom. However, the single serving wasn't sufficient to fully replace traditional icing. It provided a hint of flavor but lacked the volume and texture expected from a frosting.
Determined to perfect my kratom-infused cupcakes, I rummaged through my cupboard and found a tub of plain, fluffy white icing. Mixing the Voodoo Chocolate Gel with the icing resulted in a smooth, soft chocolate frosting that paired wonderfully with the moist strawberry cupcakes. The kratom's flavor blended seamlessly, creating a delicious and unique dessert.
As someone who doesn't use kratom daily, I usually start with half a dose when trying a new product. Even at half strength, the effects were potent yet pleasant. Consuming the gel on its own was enjoyable, but incorporating it into the frosting elevated the experience. Not only did it enhance the taste, but it also allowed me to adjust the potency.
One of the benefits of mixing the gel with icing is the ability to control the strength. By blending one packet of gel with enough frosting for multiple cupcakes, you can dilute the kratom's potency to your preference— whether it's for 2, 3, or even 4 cupcakes. Plus, there was no aftertaste whatsoever, making it easy to indulge without any lingering bitterness.
Green Shores Nutra has done an excellent job with the product's presentation. The point-of-purchase (POP) display is compact, taking up minimal counter space while attracting attention. It's an ideal addition for stores that carry kratom products, as well as kava and kratom bars. The appealing packaging coupled with the product's uniqueness is sure to generate interest and profits.
My experience with Voodoo Chocolate Gel Kratom was both fun and satisfying. It opened up new ways to enjoy kratom beyond traditional methods. Whether you're a retailer looking for innovative products or a consumer seeking a novel kratom experience, I highly recommend giving this one a try.
Disclaimer: Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen. Be aware of the ingredients and ensure they are appropriate for your health conditions. Additionally, verify the legal status of kratom in your area before purchasing or consuming.
Eddie, the brains behind the Polar Blast, has always been an honest and hardworking individual. His creation of the Polar Blast marked a turning point, not only in his life but for countless others as well. The device delivers colder smoke, enhancing both the experience and the medicinal benefits of cannabis.
The Polar Blast comes with two different tops: a flip-top and a standard fixed top. While both are great, the flip-top seems ideal for road trips, while the fixed top is perfect for home use. And the surprises don’t end there – there’s built-in storage and a grinder at the bottom! It’s a game-changer for those tired of rolling joints on the beach, offering the luxury of cold hits instead.
This product is a must-have for any shop. Train your staff well because once they understand it, they’ll be selling it like crazy!
Check it out at www.ThePolarBlast.com or reach
The folks at Cali Kulture have been so good to us that we just had to spotlight one of their standout products. Why not delve into something we use every day? So here we go—we're testing the Kado Bar BR5000 in two tantalizing flavors: Strawberry Watermelon Freeze and Strawberry Ice.
When it comes to basic disposable vapes, the Kado Bar BR5000 truly rocks. It may not boast all the bells and whistles of some high-end devices, but it delivers where it counts—and at a great price point for the end user. The design is sleek and compact, making it easy to carry in your pocket or purse. The build quality feels solid, and the mouthpiece is comfortable, ensuring a pleasant vaping experience from start to finish. The packaging is also attractive and has eye-catching colors. They will present well on a shelf.
One of the standout features of the BR5000 is its impressive longevity. Unlike many disposables where the flavor diminishes noticeably during the last third of use, the Kado Bar retains its vibrant taste throughout its lifespan. You know exactly when it's done—it doesn't leave you guessing or give off that off-tasting flavor that some other disposables do towards the end. In fact, it always seems to last longer than you expect, providing excellent value for money.
Strawberry Watermelon Freeze
Hands down, this flavor is a top-shelf experience. The fusion of sweet strawberry and juicy watermelon with a refreshing icy finish makes each puff a delight. It tastes great, with a smooth and silky exhale that leaves a pleasant aftertaste. The balance of flavors is just right—not too overpowering, yet rich enough to satisfy your taste buds.
The Strawberry Ice flavor is equally impressive. It's sweet and easy to inhale, capturing the essence of ripe strawberries with a cool twist. The vapor is smooth, and the flavor remains consistent from the first puff to the last. It's a refreshing option that's perfect for both new and seasoned vapers.
These flavors definitely compare favorably to many of the higher-priced models on the market. The Kado Bar BR5000 doesn't compromise on quality despite its affordability. It offers a premium vaping experience without the premium price tag, making it an excellent choice for those who want quality without breaking the bank.
We wholeheartedly recommend that all stores carrying disposables add the Kado Bar BR5000 to their inventory. Its combination of quality, flavor retention, and affordability makes it a product that sells itself. Customers will appreciate the consistent performance and delightful flavors, likely becoming repeat buyers.
Cali Kulture has impressed us with the Kado Bar BR5000. It's a straightforward, no-nonsense disposable vape that excels in delivering what vapers truly want: great flavor, consistent performance, and good value. Whether you're a daily user or someone who enjoys the occasional vape, the BR5000 is a reliable choice that won't disappoint.
Experience the Kado Bar BR5000 for yourself and discover why it's becoming a favorite among vapers everywhere. With flavors like Strawberry Watermelon Freeze and Strawberry Ice, you're in for a treat that lasts from the first puff to the last.