As a smoker living in Australia, cigarettes are an integral part of my daily routine. And without a doubt, one of the most popular and recognizable brands in the country is Marlboro Cigarettes – a brand that has been around for decades and has a strong following among smokers. In this article, I will provide you with some insights on Marlboro Cigarettes and its impact on the cigarette market in Australia.
The History of Marlboro Cigarettes
Marlboro Cigarettes, originally known as “Marlboro Red” was first introduced in the United States in the early 1900s. The brand was initially marketed as a cigarette for women, with its slogan “Mild as May” and its packaging featuring a feminine red filter tip. However, it wasn’t until the 1950s that Marlboro Cigarettes underwent a dramatic transformation in its marketing strategy.
The Marlboro Man
In 1954, the brand’s image was reinvented with the introduction of the iconic “Marlboro Man” – a rugged and masculine cowboy figure in its advertisements. This ad campaign was a huge success and helped Marlboro Cigarettes solidify its position as a brand for men in the cigarette market. The campaign’s slogan “Come to where the flavor is. Come to Marlboro Country” resonated with consumers and created a sense of nostalgia for the rugged American West.
The Introduction of the “Red Label”
In the late 1950s, Marlboro Cigarettes underwent another significant change with the introduction of the “Red Label” packaging – the familiar red and white packaging that is still used today. This packaging change helped the brand stand out on shelves and further solidified its image as a masculine, strong and bold cigarette brand.
Marlboro in Australia
Marlboro Cigarettes made their way into the Australian market in the 1960s, and since then, it has become one of the leading cigarette brands in the country. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, in 2017, Marlboro was the second most popular brand among Australian smokers, with a market share of 11.3%.
Packaging Changes
Like in the US, the packaging of Marlboro Cigarettes also went through changes in Australia. In the late 1980s, the brand introduced the distinctive “Marlboro Rooftop” package, which featured a rooftop illustration in gold and red to represent the brand’s signature colors. This packaging remained popular in the Australian market until the introduction of plain packaging laws in 2012.
Plain Packaging Laws
In Australia, all cigarette packs have to be sold in plain, standardized packaging – known as “plain packaging laws.” These laws were implemented to discourage smoking by removing any branding or attractive design elements from cigarette packs. The introduction of these laws resulted in all cigarette brands, including Marlboro Cigarettes, having to sell their products in identical olive-green packaging with graphic health warnings.
The Rise of E-Cigarettes
With the rise in popularity of e-cigarettes, the traditional cigarette market has been facing tough competition. However, this hasn’t slowed down the sales of Marlboro Cigarettes in Australia. In fact, the brand has adapted to the changing market by launching its own line of “heat-not-burn” products – Marlboro HeatSticks.
These HeatSticks are designed to be used with a device called the IQOS which heats the tobacco instead of burning it, producing a vapor instead of smoke. This technology has been marketed as a “smokeless” and “lower-risk” alternative to traditional cigarettes, helping Marlboro Cigarettes stay relevant in the market.
Marlboro Cigarettes in the Media
Over the years, Marlboro Cigarettes have been a subject of controversy and criticism. The brand has been accused of using manipulative marketing tactics to target young audiences and downplay the health risks associated with smoking. Additionally, its advertising campaigns have been blamed for glamorizing smoking and misleading consumers about its negative impacts.
Despite these criticisms, Marlboro Cigarettes remains a popular and recognizable brand in Australia and around the world. It has a strong following and continues to be one of the leading players in the cigarette market.
Where to Buy Marlboro Cigarettes in Australia
If you’re a smoker looking to purchase Marlboro Cigarettes in Australia, you can easily find them in most convenience stores, supermarkets, and gas stations. However, if you’re looking for a more convenient and affordable option, I highly recommend buying Marlboro Cigarettes online from websites such as Marlboro Cigarettes. Not only will you find a wider variety of options, but you can also take advantage of discounts and promotions to save money on your purchase.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, Marlboro Cigarettes have a rich history and a strong presence in the Australian market. Despite facing competition and criticism, the brand continues to be a popular choice among smokers. While smoking comes with its own set of health risks, it’s always important to be an informed consumer and make responsible choices. And if you’re going to smoke, why not do it with a pack of Marlboro Cigarettes in hand?