As a non-smoker living in Australia, I have been exposed to the constant debates and discussions surrounding cigarettes. From laws and regulations, to health concerns and social stigmas, cigarettes have always been a controversial topic. In this article, I want to shed some light on one particular brand of cigarettes – Rothmans Cigarettes, and discuss its history, impact, and current status in the Australian market.
Rothmans Cigarettes, also known as Rothmans Blue, is a British brand of cigarettes that was founded in 1890 by Louis Rothman. Back then, it was launched as a premium brand of hand-rolled cigarettes, and was known for its luxurious packaging and the use of high-quality tobacco. Over the years, Rothmans Cigarettes have become a global brand, selling in more than 80 countries worldwide, including Australia.
In Australia, Rothmans Cigarettes have been a popular choice for smokers since its introduction in the 1950s. Its smooth taste and distinctive blue packaging made it stand out amongst other brands in the market. In fact, it was the top-selling brand of cigarettes in Australia for many years, until the implementation of laws and restrictions on tobacco advertising and promotion in the 1990s. Despite these restrictions, Rothmans Cigarettes have managed to maintain a strong presence in the Australian market, thanks to its loyal customer base.
One of the reasons for Rothmans Cigarettes’ popularity is its rich history and heritage. The brand has been associated with various sporting events, such as motorsports and horse racing, which has contributed to its image of luxury and sophistication. In fact, Rothmans has been the title sponsor of the Australian Grand Prix and the Australian Open tennis tournament in the past, solidifying its brand recognition amongst Australians.
However, with the increasing awareness of the harmful effects of smoking, the Australian government has taken strict measures to discourage people from smoking. The introduction of plain packaging laws in 2012 has affected all cigarette brands in the country, including Rothmans. This means that all cigarette packets must have the same plain packaging with disturbing images and warnings about the detrimental effects of smoking. As a result, the distinctive blue packaging of Rothmans Cigarettes was replaced with a generic olive brown color, with the brand name written in a standardized font.
Despite these changes, Rothmans Cigarettes continue to be available in Australia, albeit with a smaller market share compared to its heyday. The brand is still highly recognizable and has a loyal customer base, especially amongst older generations who have been smoking for decades. In recent years, there has been a rise in the demand for alternative nicotine products, such as e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. However, cigarettes, including Rothmans, still hold a significant portion of the tobacco market in Australia.
Some may question why people still choose to smoke Rothmans Cigarettes, despite the well-documented health hazards of smoking. The answer lies in the addictive nature of nicotine, which makes it difficult for smokers to quit. In addition, some smokers may have a preference for a certain taste or brand, and may be unwilling to switch to other products. Another reason for the continued popularity of cigarettes is the accessibility and affordability. While cigarette prices in Australia are relatively high due to taxes and strict regulations, they are still readily available for purchase.
Rothmans Cigarettes are not without their controversies. In 2014, it was revealed that the brand’s parent company, British American Tobacco, had been involved in a smuggling scandal in Australia. They were accused of evading millions of dollars in taxes by smuggling cigarettes into the country. The company denied the allegations and settled the dispute with the Australian government through a significant sum of money.
In conclusion, Rothmans Cigarettes have a long and interesting history in Australia. From being the top-selling brand in the country to facing challenges with strict regulations and restrictions, it has managed to maintain its presence in the market. While it may no longer hold the same prestige and glamour it once did, Rothmans Cigarettes still have a significant following in Australia. As for me, as a non-smoker, I believe it is important to make informed choices and be aware of the potential risks associated with smoking.