BAT launches new capsule technology

BAT launches new capsule technology
Published: 12 November 2013
BAT Zimbabwe has launched a new capsule technology Dunhill Switch offering consumers two tastes in one cigarette; an innovation the group says will change the face of the tobacco category in Zimbabwe.

Chief executive Lovemore Manatsa said the new product uses capsule technology to give consumers the choice to change the flavour of their cigarette from regular to menthol at any point during their smoking experience.

"This is done by simply crushing the menthol loaded capsule embedded in the filter. We believe Dunhill switch brings the Zimbabwean tobacco market right to the fore of global tobacco trends, offering an innovative and highly premium product that remains true to the Dunhill quality standards consumers have come to know."

The group had last month also added a new pack format to its existing brand portfolio the Madison 30s.

"The 30s pack is packaged in a convenient flat pack format, that can fit in any standard pocket."

Manatsa said the group had invested in a manufacturing and packaging machinery to improve productivity, efficiency levels as well as product quality, to ensure that the business remains competitive and responsive to consumer needs. Investments of $3 million had been made towards Makers & Packers as well as a Silo (for blending stems) equipment.

At its last analyst briefing, BAT said it would continue focusing on a recovery plan which would stem the volume decline which affected financial performance in the half year to June 30.

Elsewhere in the tobacco sector, a total of 77 290 farmers have so far registered to grow tobacco during the 2013-2014 season, compared to 55 211 who had registered same period.

Latest data from the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board show that over 2 000 farmers registered in a week, as 75 904 had registered last week.

The deadline for farmers intending to grow tobacco to register is Oct 13 of each year, but can be extended attracting penalties.

According to the data, 24 047 are new farmers mainly communal who recorded 15 389 farmers, followed by A2 at 4 345. A1 and small scale farmers are 3 303 and 1 010 respectively.
- herald
Tags: BAT,

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