Cigarettes in Slovakia

PROSPECTS

Cigarette volume sales increase in 2017

Despite the new legislative framework which took effect in May 2016, aiming to reduce the number of smokers in the country, both volume and value sales of cigarettes increased in 2017. This suggests that the legislative changes have not been effective in encouraging consumers to quit smoking.

Slim and superslim cigarettes growing in popularity

While a high number of smokers preferred to buy regular cigarettes in 2017 due to being accustomed to smoking this type, slim and superslim cigarettes attracted more younger smokers around the age of 25 as well as those who are starting to smoke. This can be attributed to these products being considered more stylish and feminine when compared with regular cigarettes, thus also appealing to more female smokers.

More legislative changes expected

The tobacco legislative framework in Slovakia follows EU regulations. However, the Slovak government has also introduced its own measures to curb smoking and protect non-smokers.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Philip Morris remains the clear category leader

Philip Morris remained the clear leader in cigarettes in 2017 thanks to the strength of brands such as L&M, Marlboro and Petra. All three have been present in Slovakia for a long time, while the company has also made improvements to the products’ filters, making them 40% firmer when compared with standard filters, thus giving smokers a more consistent taste from beginning to end.

Imperial Tobacco Slovakia ranks a strong second

Imperial Tobacco Slovakia continued to rank a strong second in cigarettes in 2017, with the company benefiting from an ongoing focus on innovation, the offer of a wide range of products and a strong distribution network. Unlike Philip Morris, the main focus of Imperial Tobacco is on economy brands, with the company offering the Golden Gate and Mars brands in this price segment.

Strong focus of leading companies on new product development

In 2017, the leading players focused on improving their product portfolios. Philip Morris was very active in terms of new product development.

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