Premium tobacco brands are expecting a boost in sales this Christmas as many consumers trade up at this time of year from their usual tobacco brand, according to Imperial Tobacco.
The company is therefore advising retailers to stock up on premium bacco products now, ahead of the festive season.
Retail tobacco sales traditionally increase in the weeks running up to Christmas providing a great commercial opportunity for retailers; with premium cigarette brands seeing the greatest uplift in sales the weekend before Christmas.
As the festive season approaches independent retailers should keep an eye on seasonal changes to their customers’ tobacco preferences and change their buying habits accordingly.
Imperial Tobacco’s Head of Consumer Marketing, Jo Wren said: “The festive season is an extremely important time in Imperial Tobacco’s business calendar; this is the season for celebrations and parties and a time when adult smokers often trade up and enjoy our premium product lines.”
She continued: “While our lower priced brands such as Player’s Gold Leaf and JPS RYO have seen the biggest volume growth this year, premium brands such as Golden Virginia Classic see a particular uplift in sales around the festive period. As consumers across the country begin to get into the festive spirit retailers need to be prepared, plan ahead and ensure they have a range of tobacco products available.”
