Introduction:
As a smoker in Australia, I have come across various cigarette brands, with Rothmans being one of the most popular ones. With its distinct red and white packaging, I could always spot at least one person smoking a Rothmans cigarette in any social gathering. But what makes Rothmans cigarettes stand out from the others? In this article, I will delve into the history and attributes of Rothmans cigarettes, its position in the Australian cigarette market, and the controversy surrounding its product.
History of Rothmans Cigarettes:
Rothmans cigarettes have a rich history dating back to 1890 when Louis Rothman opened a small tobacco shop in London. It wasn’t until 1900 that the brand name “Rothmans” was introduced, and by 1924, the company was officially registered as Rothmans of Pall Mall Ltd. As the brand gained popularity, it expanded to other markets, including Australia in 1940, and eventually became one of the leading cigarette brands in the world.
Rothmans cigarettes are known for their high-quality tobacco blends, which is reflected in their slogan, “Choose the best.” The company takes pride in its use of premium quality tobacco from around the world, and their strict quality control processes ensure a consistent flavor in every cigarette. This attention to detail has earned Rothmans a reputable name among smokers globally.
Position in the Australian Cigarette Market:
In Australia, Rothmans cigarettes are manufactured by British American Tobacco (BAT), which is one of the largest tobacco companies in the world. In 2009, BAT merged with Rothmans’ parent company, PMI (Philip Morris International), further strengthening its position in the Australian market.
According to a report by Euromonitor International, Rothmans is the fourth best-selling cigarette brand in Australia, with a market share of approximately 10%. This is a significant feat, considering the strict tobacco laws in the country. Australia has some of the highest cigarette prices in the world, and strict regulations have been put in place to discourage smoking. With all these challenges, Rothmans has managed to remain a strong contender in the Australian cigarette market.
Controversies Surrounding Rothmans Cigarettes:
Like any other cigarette brand, Rothmans has faced its fair share of controversies, particularly in Australia. In 2012, the company came under fire for sponsoring a VIP tent at the V8 Supercar races. This sponsorship was seen as a way of promoting smoking to a younger audience and directly violating Australia’s strict tobacco advertising laws. The issue sparked a nationwide debate, with tobacco control groups calling for the ban of tobacco sponsorship in sporting events.
Moreover, Rothmans has been criticized for their packaging, which has been deemed too attractive and appealing to young people. The brand is known for its iconic red and white packaging, which critics argue has a strong influence on teenagers and young adults. This debate has led to the introduction of plain packaging laws in Australia, which prohibits the use of logos, slogans, and designs on tobacco packaging. However, Rothmans has found ways to comply with these laws while maintaining their brand’s identity, such as incorporating their logo in a subtle way on the cigarette filter.
Availability and Affordability:
As mentioned earlier, Australia has some of the strictest tobacco laws in the world. One of these laws is the ban on the sale of cigarettes in convenience stores, supermarkets, and gas stations. This means that people can only purchase tobacco products at licensed outlets, making it more challenging for smokers to access their preferred brands. However, Rothmans cigarettes remain widely available, even in the licensed outlets, making it a convenient choice for smokers.
In terms of affordability, Rothmans cigarettes are not the most expensive ones in the Australian market, but they are also not the cheapest. The average price for a pack of twenty Rothmans cigarettes is around $30, which is significantly higher than the cigarette prices in most other countries. This can be attributed to the high taxation on tobacco products in Australia, making it one of the main sources of revenue for the government.
Conclusion:
Rothmans cigarettes have undoubtedly made a mark in the Australian cigarette market, with its rich history, premium quality tobacco blends, and strong brand identity. Despite facing controversies and strict regulations, the brand has managed to remain a top-selling choice for smokers. As a smoker myself, I have found Rothmans cigarettes to be of high quality and consistent in flavor, making them worth the price. However, it is essential to remember the harmful effects of smoking and make informed decisions about our health. For those who are interested in trying Rothmans cigarettes, they can be purchased online at cigaroo.net at affordable prices. Smoke responsibly, and stay informed.