Liggett Group

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Liggett Group

Type	Subsidiary
Key people	Ronald Bernstein (CEO)
Industry	Tobacco
Products	Cigarettes

Liggett Group is a prominent American tobacco company, known for its production and marketing of cigarettes. Founded in 1873 by John Edmund Liggett, the company has played a significant role in the tobacco industry for over a century. Liggett Group is a subsidiary of Vector Group, a diversified holding company.

History

The Liggett Group was established in 1873 in St. Louis, Missouri, by John Edmund Liggett. The company initially focused on the production of chewing tobacco and later expanded into cigarette manufacturing. In the early 20th century, Liggett Group became one of the leading tobacco companies in the United States.

In 1911, Liggett Group merged with Meyers Tobacco Company to form Liggett & Myers Tobacco Company. This merger allowed the company to expand its product line and increase its market share. Throughout the 20th century, Liggett & Myers introduced several popular cigarette brands, including Chesterfield, L&M, and Lark.

In 1970, the company was acquired by Grand Metropolitan, a British conglomerate, and subsequently underwent several ownership changes. In 1980, the company was renamed Liggett Group, and in 1986, it was acquired by Bennett S. LeBow, who later formed Vector Group.

Products

Liggett Group is known for producing a variety of cigarette brands. Some of the most notable brands include:

• Eve: A brand targeted primarily at female smokers, known for its slim and stylish design.
• Pyramid: A discount brand offering a range of flavors.
• Grand Prix: A value brand known for its affordability.

Legal and Regulatory Challenges

Liggett Group has been involved in numerous legal and regulatory challenges, particularly related to health concerns associated with smoking. In the 1990s, Liggett Group became the first major tobacco company to settle lawsuits by admitting that smoking is addictive and causes cancer. This landmark decision set a precedent for other tobacco companies and influenced the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement of 1998.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Liggett Group has implemented various corporate social responsibility initiatives, focusing on reducing the environmental impact of its operations and promoting responsible marketing practices. The company has also contributed to research on smoking cessation and public health.

Also see

• Tobacco industry in the United States
• Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement
• Vector Group
• Chesterfield (cigarette)
• L&M (cigarette)