Current and Future Trends in Cigarette Manufacturing

Machine productivity will rise significantly

Increasingly important in a market showing growing commoditisation and rapid technological innovation. Vital for consolidation of production in fewer manufacturing sites in strategic locations. 

95+% efficiency rates and quick format changes will be the norm

Producing centrally for consumers in different markets calls for quick format change functionalities. Existing technology already allows for time efficient adjustments.

Export hubs will continue to grow in importance

Export hubs are becoming central to strategies of big tobacco companies. The overcapacity issues and decline in cigarette volumes reinforces the need for factory consolidation.

Plain packaging will become the norm; opportunities for ultrafast production lines

Plain packaging is already getting on track in several key markets around the world. Along with the apparent threat to tobacco companies, this can lead to the use of efficient ultrafast production lines.

Heat not burn devices will play a bigger role in shaping the future of manufacturing

Heat not burn products are projected to grow significantly in the future. Heating devices and heat sticks are produced in different ways and require different focus.

Splitting up of brands and production; third party manufacturing

With plain packaging, branding and marketing can decline in importance. This opens up opportunities for third parties entering the production process. 

3D printing

3D printing can play a crucial role in manufacturing vapour devices. Acquiring and adapting the technology in-house or consumers using it directly could shape the future of the industry.