Our history

We were created in 1999 when Japan Tobacco Inc (JT), our parent company, purchased the non-US operations of the multinational R.J. Reynolds for 7.8 billion USD

At the time, the acquisition of R.J. Reynolds International (RJRI) was the largest overseas acquisition ever made by a Japanese company. The same was true when, in 2007, Gallaher, a FTSE 100 business was purchased for 9.4 billion GBP and became part of JTI.

There have been many events that have influenced the shape and success of our business. However, it is the acquisition of RJRI that created us, and the acquisition of Gallaher that doubled our size, that are – so far – the biggest milestones in our history.

We worked quickly to transform RJRI into JTI, making the most of that company’s experienced people and high profile brands, including Winston and Camel.

Integrating Gallaher

When we acquired Gallaher, we once again welcomed the skills and experience of the company’s people, as well as their prestigious international product portfolio.

Broadening our company’s brand portfolio and increasing its spread of international markets were the motivations behind both acquisitions.

Our strategy is to make the most of our assets through a long-term focus on building brand equity with emphasis on our eight Global Flagship Brands – Winston, Camel, Mild Seven, Benson & Hedges, Silk Cut, Sobranie, Glamour and LD.