January 9, 2025 – Leading media and consultancy in the Next-Generation Products (NGPs) industry, 2Firsts, has announced the appointment of Taco Tuinstra as its new Global Editor-in-Chief. A former Editor-in-Chief of Tobacco Reporter, Tuinstra brings decades of expertise to 2Firsts, marking a pivotal moment in the company’s growth and its commitment to global expansion.
Taco Tuinstra is widely regarded as one of the most influential journalists in the global tobacco sector. Over his nearly three decades at the helm of Tobacco Reporter, he demonstrated exceptional editorial acumen, sharp industry insights, and unwavering professionalism, transforming the publication into the undisputed benchmark for industry journalism. His coverage spanned critical issues such as global trade networks, illicit distribution channels, and groundbreaking innovations in Next-Generation Products (NGPs). His reporting took him across the globe, underscoring his deep commitment to the industry and the principles of journalism.
Commenting on his new role at 2Firsts, Tuinstra said: “It is an honor to join 2Firsts as Global Editor-in-Chief. True to its name, 2First is a first-rate operation, and I look forward to contributing to the company’s continued growth and success.
‘The legacy and longevity of Tobacco Reporter combined with the youthful drive and ambition of 2Firsts is a winning formula and I am excited to explore the many synergies that our cooperation promises.”
2Firsts Co-Founder and CEO Alan Zhao spoke highly of Tuinstra’s appointment: “Taco is a visionary journalist whose dedication to the global tobacco and Next-Generation Products (NGP) industries and commitment to professional media reporting align seamlessly with 2Firsts’ mission. His addition represents a significant boost to our team and underscores our commitment to delivering top-quality content to industry professionals worldwide. Under his leadership, we are confident that 2Firsts will provide more authoritative reporting and unique insights, leveraging the power of media to drive transformation and progress in the global tobacco and NGP industries while advancing the harm reduction agenda on a global scale.”
Tuinstra’s arrival comes at a critical juncture for 2Firsts as the organization continues to expand its international presence. In just three years since its founding, 2Firsts has emerged as a globally recognized media and consultancy in the NGP field. Its reporting and research are widely cited and shared among industry leaders, and it is a trusted media partner for major global exhibitions and conferences. In 2025, 2Firsts plans to strengthen its global reporting, research capabilities, and professional services, further promoting innovation and compliance-driven high-quality development across the global tobacco and NGP industries.
2Firsts welcomes article submissions, interview opportunities, or commentary. Please contact us at info@2firsts.com or connect with 2Firsts CEO Alan Zhao on LinkedIn here.
