Full Breakdown
Josh Kesselman Hosts Vintage Car Show Near RAW Rolling-Paper Factory in Alcoy, Spain
7/10/2026, 1:30:36 PM
Event Overview
On July 8, 2026, Joshua D. Kesselman, founder of the RAW brand of rolling papers and smoking accessories, organized a car exhibition in Alcoy, Spain. The show, promoted on the @rawkandroll Instagram account, featured a vintage Mini Cooper, a rally car, a Deux Chevaux, and a fully restored 1981 Renault GTX with custom gold rims. Alcoy lies roughly a 15-minute drive from RAW’s production facility in the nearby town of Benimarfull.
Background & Context
Benimarfull and surrounding municipalities—including Banyeres de Mariola, Xàtiva, Muro de Alcoy, Alqueria de Aznar, and Concentaina—have a centuries-old association with European rolling-paper manufacturing. RAW’s factory in Benimarfull is a modern continuation of that legacy. Kesselman, who appeared on the 2026 Forbes Cannabis 42.0 list, has highlighted the region’s role in sustaining paper production despite historical setbacks.
Official Statements & Responses
During a tour of the Benimarfull plant, Kesselman emphasized the resilience of local rolling-paper manufacturing, noting collaborative efforts with French and other mills to maintain output after water-resource challenges. At the car show, he presented “well-deserved awards” to participants whose vehicles he deemed exemplary, underscoring the event’s blend of automotive enthusiasm and cultural celebration.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Rolling papers production in this area refuses to die… It was crushed and reborn many times,” — Joshua Kesselman
- “Many people tried to bring it to an end, to finish it, but every time, it was reborn like a phoenix from the ashes.” — Joshua Kesselman
- “Many people tried to bring it to an end, to finish it, but every time, it was reborn like a phoenix from the ashes. Even after losing much of its water resources, the area began working with French and other mills to continue to produce rolling papers against all odds.” — Joshua Kesselman
- “beautiful and rare.” — Joshua Kesselman, describing the 1981 Renault GTX
Why It Matters
The event spotlights RAW’s commitment to its heritage region while leveraging a high-profile automotive showcase to broaden brand visibility. By linking vintage car culture with the historic rolling-paper industry, the company reinforces its narrative of durability and adaptation in both product lines and community ties.
