Altria Group

Altria Group, Inc.

File:Altria logo.svg
Company type	Public
Traded as	NYSE: [ MO]
Industry	Tobacco
Founded	1985
Founder	Philip Morris
Key people	William F. Gifford Jr. (CEO)
Products	Cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, cigars, wine
Revenue	$26.15 billion (2022)
Operating income	$11.5 billion (2022)
Net income	$8.1 billion (2022)
Number of employees	7,300 (2022)
Website	www.altria.com

Altria Group, Inc. is an American corporation based in Richmond, Virginia. It is one of the world's largest producers and marketers of tobacco, cigarettes, and related products. Altria is the parent company of Philip Morris USA, John Middleton, Inc., and U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company.

History

Altria Group was originally founded as Philip Morris Companies Inc. in 1985. The company changed its name to Altria Group, Inc. in 2003 as part of a corporate rebranding strategy. The name "Altria" is derived from the Latin word "altus," meaning "high" or "above," reflecting the company's aspirations.

In 2008, Altria spun off its international operations, creating Philip Morris International as a separate entity. This allowed Altria to focus on the U.S. market while Philip Morris International concentrated on global markets.

Products and Brands

Altria's primary products include cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, and cigars. Its flagship brand, Marlboro, is one of the best-selling cigarette brands in the world. Other notable brands include Copenhagen, Skoal, and Black & Mild.

Cigarettes

Altria's cigarette business is conducted primarily through its subsidiary, Philip Morris USA. Marlboro is the leading brand, but the company also markets other brands such as Virginia Slims, Parliament, and L&M.

Smokeless Tobacco

The U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company, a subsidiary of Altria, produces leading smokeless tobacco brands such as Copenhagen and Skoal.

Wine

Altria also has a wine business through its subsidiary, Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, which produces and markets premium wines.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Altria has faced significant criticism and legal challenges over the health impacts of its products. In response, the company has invested in harm reduction strategies, including the development of reduced-risk products such as e-vapor and heated tobacco products.

Financial Performance

Altria is a publicly traded company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol MO. It is known for its strong dividend yield and has been a popular choice for income-focused investors.

Controversies

Altria has been involved in numerous legal battles and public controversies related to the health effects of smoking and tobacco advertising. The company has paid billions in settlements and continues to face regulatory challenges.

Also see

• Philip Morris USA
• Philip Morris International
• Tobacco industry
• Smoking and health
• Cigarette advertising