Until recently, few people would have mentioned the words “tobacco” and “innovation” in the same sentence. Even as other legacy industries started disrupting their respective operations, the tobacco industry remained content to milk its tried-and-tested business model and count on the habit-forming properties of nicotine to sustain its business.
That has changed dramatically over the past 15 years. Advances in technology, together with shifting attitudes, have turned the once-staid nicotine business into a cutting-edge innovator. The modern e-cigarette was not invented by the tobacco industry, but when it started making inroads around 2008, the industry recognized its potential and devoted considerable resources to its perfection. The ensuing disruption to the nicotine business prompted one major financial institution to rank the impact of e-cigarettes in the same league as that of 3D printing.
And it didn’t stop there. Tobacco companies went on to develop a host of additional reduced-risk technologies, such as tobacco-heating devices. Some even began applying their expertise in agronomy, product development and substance delivery to create nonrecreational products, such as vaccines, pharmaceuticals and therapeutic devices.
Astonished by the radical transition taking place in the industry, and excited about what it promises for the future, Tobacco Reporter devote its entire April 2022 issue to the topic of innovation.
FDA Authorizes 24 VELO Pouch Products
The orders cover eight product varieties across three packaging configurations, all containing 4 mg of nicotine.
Universal to Report Fiscal Q2 Results Nov. 4
The call will be available via live webcast on the company’s website, with a replay accessible through Feb. 5, 2027.
Cigar Aficionado Founder, Publisher Dies at 83
His publishing business covered wine, spirits, and cigars, while his philanthropy supported scholarships, prostate cancer research, and autism services.
PA Can Enforce Vape Directory Law During Appeal
The law, which took effect Oct. 19, prohibits the sale of nicotine-containing e-cigarettes not listed in the state’s approved product directory.
UK Bans Sales of Nicotine Products to Under-18s
Retailers face fixed penalty notices of £200 for relevant offenses in England, Wales, and Scotland, with Northern Ireland’s to be decided.
Sweden Opposes EU Tobacco Tax Increase Ahead of Meeting
Sweden objected to proposed minimum taxes on tobacco-free nicotine pouches, arguing that member states should retain the ability to set tax rates.
Altria Raises 2026 Earnings Guidance After Third-Quarter Growth
For the first nine months of 2026, net revenue increased 1.4% to $17.67 billion, while adjusted diluted earnings per share rose 5.1% to $4.33.
Japan Tobacco Raises 2026 Earnings Forecast After Nine-Month Profit Growth
JT raised its full-year 2026 forecast, projecting revenue of $24.6 billion and operating profit of $6.6 billion.
S.Korea Releases Harmful-Ingredient Results for Tobacco Products
It found formaldehyde in all 256 cigarette products, all 104 heated-tobacco products, and 99 of the 105 e-liquids tested.
BAT Malaysia Says Illicits Account for 56% of Market
The legal cigarette market contracted 3.9%, while BAT Malaysia’s sales volume fell 21.1%.
Skoka Raises $21.5 Million, Submits PMTA for 55 Pouch Products
The company submitted the application Oct. 1 and plans to begin U.S. retail distribution in 2027, subject to FDA authorization.
UK Removes Business Rates Relief for Vape Shops, Drawing Industry Criticism
Critics said the decision could create a retail market where vape shops face additional costs while convenience stores selling the same products retain tax relief.
