22nd Century Group Signs New, Expanded License and Manufacturing Agreement with Smoker Friendly

Core Insights - 22nd Century Group has completed a new licensing and manufacturing agreement with Smoker Friendly, covering 11 existing brands and supporting the launch of 8 additional premium brands [1][2] - The agreement is set for five years and aims to expand both companies' business opportunities while enhancing Smoker Friendly's product offerings [1][3] Group 1: Agreement Details - The agreement includes 11 existing SF brands and plans for 8 new premium products focusing on the natural segment of the market [1][2] - The new products are expected to occupy a premium market position compared to lower-tier products, expanding Smoker Friendly's market opportunity [2] - The agreement builds on a decade-long relationship and secures a longstanding customer for 22nd Century [1][3] Group 2: Product Expansion and Strategy - The company plans to integrate Smoker Friendly's existing filtered cigar business and add a reduced nicotine content brand that complements the VLN product line [2][4] - The reduced nicotine content products are designed to help smokers control their nicotine intake, aligning with 22nd Century's mission of nicotine harm reduction [4][6] - The proprietary tobacco strains used in VLN products contain 95% less nicotine, which is considered non-addictive and has been shown to reduce smoking activity among adult smokers [4][6][9] Group 3: Company Background - 22nd Century Group is recognized as a pioneering nicotine harm reduction company in the tobacco industry, enabling smokers to take control of their nicotine consumption [5] - The company operates a facility in Mocksville, North Carolina, capable of producing over 45 million cartons of combusted tobacco products annually [8] - The proprietary reduced nicotine tobacco blends are developed through patented technologies that regulate nicotine biosynthesis in the tobacco plant [9]