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Jump to full article: The Spokesman-Review, 2009-10-11
Author: Universal Press Syndicate The Spokesman-Review
Intro: In the new world of big tobacco, Altria (NYSE: MO) seems to march to its own beat.
Reynolds American and Lorillard have joined forces to fight the government over increased tobacco regulation, questioning the free speech (i.e., advertising) ramifications of FDA control over the tobacco industry.
Meanwhile, Altria announced plans to expand its product portfolio with Copenhagen- brand wintergreen smokeless tobacco (it bought snuff-and-wine connoisseur UST last year). That could drive Copenhagen's share of the segment from 23 percent to 32 percent, according to a company spokesperson. Also, Altria is introducing a value-priced L&M menthol cigarette and continues to look for growth with its Marlboro Snus.
As Reynolds American and Lorillard battle for advertising supremacy, the lawsuits can hurt their bottom lines.
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