UK: Menthol Tobacco Ban Boosts IQOS Sales
As of last May, menthol cigarettes were banned across the EU under the revised Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). Despite Brexit, the ban also applied in the UK, including capsule, crushball and dual menthol cigarettes, but excluding vaping and heated toba
As of May last year, menthol cigarettes were banned across the EU under the revised Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). Despite Brexit, the ban also applied in the UK, including capsule cigarettes, crushball cigarettes, and menthol dual cigarettes, but not vaping products or heated tobacco products. The measure took effect on May 20, and anyone found selling menthol products anywhere in the EU could face a fine of up to €1,000.
“No person may manufacture or supply cigarettes or roll-your-own tobacco with filters, paper, packaging, capsules, or other components containing flavorings; filters, paper, or capsules containing tobacco or nicotine; or a technical feature that allows consumers to modify the smell, taste, or smoke intensity of the product,” explained Action on Smoking and Health (ASH).
In response to declining smoking rates worldwide, tobacco companies have been investing heavily in alternative products such as IQOS and Glo heated tobacco devices. As the first company in the UK to launch a heated tobacco product with menthol tobacco stick refills, PMI is expected to benefit from the ban and has even called it a “huge opportunity” for the business.
In response to declining smoking rates worldwide, tobacco companies have been investing heavily in alternative products such as IQOS and Glo heated tobacco devices. As the first company in the UK to launch a heated tobacco product with menthol tobacco stick refills, PMI is expected to benefit from the ban and has even called it a “huge opportunity” for the business.
