Tobacco.org

Altadis Buys Control of JR Cigars 

The world's largest cigar company just got bigger. Spanish-based Altadis S.A. has acquired a controlling interest in 800 JR Cigar Inc., America's largest cigar retailer. The move will give the Spanish/French cigarmaker unprecedented access to American cigar smokers.

JR, the juggernaut of cigar retailers, sells all types of cigars via its web site, catalog and retail stores. JR owns three outlet centers in North Carolina and eight other retail stores, including one in midtown Manhattan. The Whippany, New Jersey company was owned by Lew Rothman and his family. Rothman will continue to serve as president and chief executive officer of JR.

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