Imperial Tobacco Group, operating under the name Imperial Brands PLC, is a multinational consumer goods company specializing in the manufacture, marketing and distribution of tobacco and nicotine products. Founded in 1901 through the merger of several British tobacco manufacturers, the company rebranded as Imperial Brands in 2016 to reflect a broader focus on next-generation products alongside its traditional tobacco portfolio. Headquartered in Bristol, U.K., Imperial Brands maintains operations in more than 160 markets worldwide.
The company’s core tobacco offering includes a variety of factory-made cigarettes and fine-cut tobacco for roll-your-own use. Key cigarette brands in its portfolio include Davidoff, Gauloises Blondes, West and John Player Special (JPS), while Golden Virginia is a leading brand in the fine-cut category. Imperial Brands also produces cigars under names such as Backwoods and Aguila, catering to diverse consumer preferences.
In response to shifting consumer trends and regulatory pressures, Imperial Brands has expanded into next-generation products. Its blu e-cigarette platform was one of the first widely distributed vape brands in Europe and North America. More recently, the company has invested in heated tobacco systems and oral nicotine pouches designed to offer adult smokers potentially reduced-risk alternatives. These initiatives form part of Imperial’s strategic commitment to innovation and harm-reduction.
Imperial Brands’ global footprint encompasses manufacturing facilities in locations such as the U.K., U.S., Germany, Australia and Kenya, supported by regional sales and distribution networks. Since October 2020, the company has been led by Chief Executive Officer Stefan Bomhard, who is guiding a transformation agenda focused on portfolio optimization, operational efficiency and sustainability. Under his leadership, Imperial continues to pursue growth in key markets while adapting to evolving regulatory landscapes and consumer preferences.
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