R.J. Reynolds

R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company

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Type	Subsidiary
Key people	Susan M. Cameron (CEO)
Industry	Tobacco
Products	Cigarettes

The R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company is one of the largest tobacco companies in the United States. Founded in 1875 by Richard Joshua Reynolds, the company has played a significant role in the development and marketing of tobacco products, particularly cigarettes. R.J. Reynolds is known for its iconic brands such as Camel, Winston, and Salem.

History

R.J. Reynolds began as a small operation in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, where Reynolds capitalized on the region's rich tobacco-growing tradition. The company grew rapidly, and by the early 20th century, it had become a major player in the American tobacco industry.

Early Years

In its early years, R.J. Reynolds focused on producing chewing tobacco. However, the company soon shifted its focus to cigarettes, which were becoming increasingly popular. The introduction of the Camel brand in 1913 marked a turning point for the company, as it quickly became one of the best-selling cigarette brands in the United States.

Mid-20th Century

During the mid-20th century, R.J. Reynolds expanded its product line and marketing efforts. The company introduced several new brands, including Winston and Salem, which were marketed as "filter" cigarettes, appealing to health-conscious consumers.

Late 20th Century to Present

In the latter half of the 20th century, R.J. Reynolds faced increasing scrutiny and regulation due to the health risks associated with smoking. Despite these challenges, the company continued to innovate and adapt, eventually merging with Nabisco in 1985 to form RJR Nabisco. This merger was later dissolved, and R.J. Reynolds became a subsidiary of British American Tobacco in 2004.

Products

R.J. Reynolds is known for its wide range of cigarette brands, each targeting different consumer demographics. Some of its most notable brands include:

• Camel: Known for its distinctive packaging and flavor, Camel was one of the first nationally marketed cigarette brands in the U.S.
• Winston: Introduced in 1954, Winston quickly became one of the top-selling cigarette brands in the country.
• Salem: Launched in 1956, Salem was one of the first filter-tipped menthol cigarettes.

Controversies

R.J. Reynolds has been involved in numerous controversies, primarily related to the health effects of smoking and its marketing practices. The company has faced lawsuits and regulatory actions over its advertising strategies, particularly those targeting young people.

Also see

• Tobacco industry
• British American Tobacco
• Philip Morris International
• Health effects of tobacco

External links

• [Official website](https://www.rjrt.com)