Jump to full article: Motley Fool, 2009-11-10
Author: Colleen Paulson
Intro: For months, Altria (NYSE: MO) has been the tobacco industry's head of all things wholesome. By supporting FDA regulation of cigarette products (with much tighter advertising constraints), Altria became the only member of "Big Tobacco" to back anti-smoking concerns.
But now it's time for Altria to step aside, because Reynolds American (NYSE: RAI) could potentially one-up the former Philip Morris at its own game. According to rumors, Reynolds wants to purchase Swedish-based nicotine-replacement gum and spray provider Niconovum.
Niconovum is really small potatoes in the scope of Reynolds' overall business . . .
Big Tobacco will always try to position itself as a collection of somewhat-caring corporate citizens. Now, it looks like Reynolds American may take the top spot as the industry's spin leader.
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