In recent times, we have all served as witnesses of the booming e-cig and e-hookah industry. Today, from workplaces, universities, nightlife establishments, and more, electronic cigarettes and hookahs seem to be everywhere. With companies like Blu and NJOY getting commercial time, it’s quickly becoming mainstream.

And with continued growth and industry proliferation, traditional tobacco brands like Marlboro are quickly being overshadowed by their electronic counterparts; especially at large industry conventions and trade shows namely the 2014 Tobacco Plus Expo.

Fueling this fire of growth is hookah.

From a historical perspective, the essence of hookah originates from the Middle East and the Arab world around the 16th century, as individuals would smoke waterpipe as a part of culture and tradition. It served as a social event, “a sign of a good time”, just like in western world, alcohol serves as the catalyst for social gatherings. Social smoking is usually done with a single or double hose hookah. Most cafés in the Middle East offer shishas (actual tobacco, flavoring, and molasses that is used for smoking hookah). Cafes are widespread and are amongst the chief social gathering places in the Arab world.

In the past few decades in the United States, as more and more middle eastern immigrants have established themselves and have fused into the diverse American melting pot, hookah – being an important part of middle eastern culture, has developed a stronghold in metropolitan areas nationwide.

What existed before as a practice fueled by tradition and culture, has now become a nationwide social phenomena. Hookah allows it’s users and consumers an activity that fosters the gathering of family, friends, and conversation – while still retaining sobriety. From college students, to young professionals, smoking hookah is a way to relax, meet up with friends, converse, and enjoy company.

It should come as no surprise that with the introduction of e-cigs in the tobacco industry, electronic hookahs has quickly proliferated as a booming place to be to observe exciting growth.

5. Khalil Mamoon

The infamous "KM" Hookah is perhaps the most well known hookah in the world. In essence, they stand as a business with a rich history of traditions fusing both quality and culture into all of their products. Founded by the Mamoon family in Cairo, KM Hookah made its first entrance onto the TPC scene this year and their presence was definitely felt. Current owner, Sharif Mamoon was seen being interactive and entertaining his many visitors at the show.

Their story begins in the sand dunes of Cairo, with the name Khalil Mamoon stemming from the creator of their respective hookahs. Originally a specialist antiques restorer, Khalil Mamoon manifested his passion for hookah into a family wide business. Now in it’s third generation, and continuing to grow, they represent genuine culture and quality infused traditional hookah beautifully hand-made in Cairo. Egypt. This was the first time they were at this expo and presented their entire portfolio of beautiful products.