Buried inside this mostly-dull 195-page Philip Morris (PM) marketing report is some important information that should be noted by public health groups and authorities:
In noting the decline of smoking rates in the U.S., PM lists the major factors that have proven particularly effective at decreasing the demand for cigarettes: "the declining social acceptability of smoking, increased smoking restrictions, particularly in the workplace [and] rising excise taxes and prices..." Confirming that higher cigarette prices effectively decrease smoking rates, the report also says that lower-priced (discount) cigarettes help "keep some consumers in the marketplace" who otherwise would have quit.
The document also describes PM's opposition to fire-safe cigarettes:
"Anti-smoking groups endorse the 'self-extinguishing', or 'Fire Safe', cigarette as a way to...cause all cigarettes to look and taste the same. Such mandates could cripple the competitive advantage of leading brands and intensify the erosion of the overall cigarette market."
PM describes its strategy to fight fire-safe cigarette legislation on Page 150, Bates No. 2051363574:
"ISSUE: Efforts by anti-smoking groups to mandate a 'fire safe' cigarette could destroy the competitiveness of leading brands and increase the cost of manufacturing cigarettes. STRATEGY: ...PM-USA will expand coalitions among the fire prevention community and public policy makers to diffuse support for 'fire-safe' legislation at the state and federal level..."
PM also considered nicotine-replacement therapy aids (like the patch and gum) to be direct competitors. To fight the incursion of these products into the nicotine market, PM planned to develop a "proprietary alternative smoking product" called "Beta," which would "be marketed in direct response to such products as nicotine-releasing skin patches and chewing gum." [Page 37, Bates No. 2051363461]
The report also reveals the extreme importance of smoker databases to cigarette companies' continued ability to promote smoking--something public health authorities have largely ignored. As legal restrictions tighten on advertising and promotions, cigarette companies increasingly turn to huge databases of information that they gather on smokers to continue actively marketing cigarettes to large numbers of people:
"The marketing environment is likely to become more restrictive during the plan period, including additional restrictions on outdoor and event sponsorship. This necessitates creating alternative avenues of reaching the consumer. Developing a smoker name database will enable us to effectively reach a large number of smokers..."
Smoker databases are of such importance as promotional tools that PM girded itself to deflect any legislation that might restrict the company's ability to gather personal information on smokers:
"As the database becomes more critical to our marketing plans, it becomes essential that we protect it from legislated restrictions..." [Page 107, Bates No. 2051363531]
The document also makes it clear that PM fights restrictions on event sponsorship at least in part because these events provide the company with venues in whcih they can gather personal data on smokers (the company refers to gathering smoker information as "name generation.") The says PM should "Increase [the company's] presence at major events and use as source for name generation."
Also of interest to health authorities should be the information on Page 145 (Bates No. 2051363569) that describes PM's strategy to divert health department funds away from tobacco control and towards "support[ing] other health programs (pre-natal care, half-way houses, etc.)" (areas which don't threaten cigarette sales):
"Long Term Goals
• Counter ASSIST Program in 17 states: - Work with grass roots organizations to divert state health department funds, equivalent to the amount of ASSIST funding, to support other health programs (pre-natal care, half-way houses, etc.).
(Note: ASSIST was a widespread public health effort in the early to mid 1990's in the U.S. to reduce smoking rates in 19 states)
PM's plans also included efforts to eliminate public health restrictions on tobacco that were already in place:
"Rollback Program:
- Particularly in localities, introduce legislation to reinstate marketing activities, such as sampling and couponing, that have been banned or restricted.
- Pass state preemption."
The report also refers to African Americans as an "important volume opportunity" while simultaneously describing how to fight the idea that the industry targets minorities in their promotions,
This and much more information within this document shows that far beyond simply making and selling cigarettes, Philip Morris actively worked on a number of fronts to fight efforts to reduce the many public health threats the company poses.
Fields
Quotes
Industry volume of 509.2 billion in 1991 was down 12.6 billion versus 1990, continuing a declining trend which began in 1982. Over the past five years, U.S. cigarette volume has declined at a compounded annual rate of 2.6%. Factors which continue to negatively influence volume include the health controversy, the declining social acceptability of smoking, increased smoking restrictions, particularly in the work place, rising excise taxes and prices, and the decline in the number of new people reaching smoking age.
During the upcoming five years, we anticipate cigarette volume to continue to decline based on an additional excise tax increase in 1993 and the continued hostile smoking environment. Sales of cigarettes in the U.S. are projected to decrease an average of 2.7% per year between 1991 and 1996, reaching 443.5 billion in 1996...
Notwithstanding the forecasted industry decline, PM-USA will continue to address the challenge this forecast provides in order to lessen the effect on our volume and share. Corporate Affairs will continue to provide information and support issues concerning social
and work place restrictions which have been placed on smokers. They will also continue to lobby for minimal state and federal excise tax increases, so as to lessen retail price increases. From a product development perspective, PM-USA will develop new products to meet the continued demands of our changing market, e.g. more flavorful, ultra low tar products. We will also continue to develop new and innovative products to address the
perceived health and social issues surrounding the cigarette industry. Finally, PM-USA will continue to moderate price increases of our premium brands in order to make smoking less cost prohibitive.
[From page 6]:
These sociodemographic trends highlight the importance to PM-USA of maintaining its historic strength among entering smokers, retaining smokers as they age, and gaining share
among older age groups so that we can continue to increase our market share to reach 49.7% in 1996.
Race/Ethnicity
...While smoking incidence varies considerably among these groups (ranging from 16% among Asians to 29.7% among Blacks), it is evident that they represent an important volume opportunity. During the plan period PM-USA will hold its near 50% share of Hispanics, and will increase its 19.8% share among Blacks primarily via the launch of B&H King Size. In addition, we will build upon our 61.3% share among Asians through intensified marketing
programs.
[From Page 7]:
INDUSTRY VOLUME DECLINES BY NIELSEN COUNTY SIZE
This industry erosion in major metros is being driven by smoking incidence declines and broader smoking restrictions, acting to offset population shifts which have favored cities and suburbs...
[From Page 9]:
Smoking continues to be skewed more heavily toward the less educated. Approximately 38% of smokers (age 25-54) have attained some college education, whereas approximately
55% of non-smokers in that same age group have some college education. Similarly, 20.9%, of smokers (age 25-54) did not graduate from high school compared to 10.7% of non-smokers.
[From Page 24]:
SOCIETY SUMMARY
Cigarette smoking has evolved from a majority adult habit to a minority act, enjoyed by a weakened social constituency. Consequently, the political and social base of the smoker has eroded and opinion leaders have begun turning against the industry, supporting legislation,
litigation, and non-profit anti-smoking groups that seek to restrict smoking. During the plan period, the cigarette industry will be required to defend and protect its rights as a result of:
• States increasing state excise taxes to compensate for weak local economies and fiscal budgets.
• Employers adopting employment practices that discriminate against individuals based on legal lifestyle decisions pursued off premises during non-working hours.
• Anti-smoking forces continuing using the environmental tobacco smoke controversy to restrict people's right to smoke.
• States and local governments legislating restrictions and bans on the sales and marketing activities for tobacco products.
• Legislations requiring that cigarettes be self-extinguishing.
• Environmentalists mandating product specifications on the marketplace.
• Attitudes towards smoking.
[From Page 27]:
SMOKING RESTRICTIONS
The environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) controversy continues to be used by anti-smoking
forces to restrict the opportunity to smoke. In recent years, despite success in defeating
state-wide bans, the number and scope of these restrictions have increased significantly in
the private sector and they are expected to continue to grow. Because of this success at halting or modifying state legislation restricting smoking, anti-smoking activists have turned to federal agencies and localities to push for additional restrictions.
[From Page 30]:
MARKETING RESTRICTIONS
During the plan period, attacks on the tobacco industry's marketing practices will focus on the allegations that industry marketing activities are aimed at encouraging youth to smoke, as well as women and minorities. Also, federal funds will be used to force local communities to
restrict tobacco marketing practices. U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Louis Sullivan's American Stop Smoking Intervention Study program (ASSIST) will provide $135 million over seven years to seventeen state health departments "...to change attitudes about smoking and counter the sinister marketing strategies of the tobacco industry. "ASSIST will be augmented by the American Cancer Society which will provide $25-$30 million in additional funds for lobbying and smoking cessation campaigns.
[From Page 144]:
Marketing and Sales Restrictions
The organized anti-smoking movement is attempting to restrict or ban our ability to reach existing smokers with marketing and sales vehicles considered legitimate tools for virtually all other products. Restrictions on advertising, sponsorship, sampling, couponing and sales practices limit our efforts to increase market-share. By restricting the industry's ability to use widely accepted marketing and sales techniques, the anti-smoking forces are attempting to reduce public acceptability of
cigarettes.
PM-USA's goal is to defeat proposed marketing and sales restrictions or bans. PM-USA is proactively supporting state legislation to preempt local restrictions, as well as to establish tobacco industry marketing and sales guidelines as state law...
ISSUe:
The anti-smoking movement is using false charges about the targetting of youth, women and
minorities to advance legislation restricting or banning the marketing and sale of cigarettes.
Strategy:
|
!
PM-USA will use two strategies to combat marketing restrictions. First, we will advance our position
that smoking is an adult custom, that PM-USA does not want minors to smoke and is working in
cooperation with retailers to prevent minors from purchasing cigarettes. Second, we will demonstrate
to elected officials, public policy decision makers, the media and consumers that advertising,
sampling and sponsorship are forms of free speech protected by the First Amendment. To increase awareness of company/industry initiatives we will use advertisements on the Youth Initiative in selected publications..
1992-1994
Marketing Freedoms
Develop state legal fellowship programs with the American Civil Liberties Union and
• Washington Legal Foundation to oppose bans or restrictions (Freedom of Speech).
Develop Sports Sponsorship Coalition to promote/defend corporate right of sponsorship.
• Coordinate with minority interest groups to
counter anti-smoker's claims on "targeting".
Long Term Goals
• Counter ASSIST Program in 17 states:
- Work with grass roots organizations to divert state health department funds, equivalent to the amount of ASSIST
funding, to support other health programs (pre-natal care, half-way houses, etc.).
Rollback Program:
- Particularly in localities, introduce legisla-
tion to reinstate marketing activities, such
as sampling and couponing, that have been banned or restricted.
- Pass state preemption.
INDUSTRY SUMMARY
The tobacco industry is characterized as mature and declining, yet with high margins for a
low cost consumer product. During the plan period, the industry will be affected by changes
in volume, demographic, product category, trade channels, marketing mix, and pricing.
Industry Volume Trends
Volume trends will continue to be impacted by the health controversy, the declining social
acceptability of smoking, increased smoking restrictions, particularly in the workplace, rising
excise taxes and prices, and demographic changes.
Population Trends
By 1996, only 12% adults under the age of 25 and over two-thirds will be 35+, as compared
to 1986 which had 16% adults under the age of 25, and slightly over half the age of 35+.
This sociodemographic trend highlights the importance of PM-USA's ability to maintain its
histcric strength among entcring s.mcker.t, ;eiain srr:oicers as they age and gain share
among oiG'ar c~e rr::°`- ; ~~ : _st °d?e can °.i;¢inY!a !J 1rGrvsae our r; ar:{Gt share. ~itiler
socioderriographic trends that will impact PM-USA over the plan period are:
• Changing racial/ethnic mix of the U.S. population.
• Decline in smoking incidence in urban environments.
• Decline in smoking among white collar workers.
Product Category Trends
The discount category will continue to be a dynamic segment in the tobacco industry,
supported by growing legitimacy, advertising support, brand/packing proliferation and/or
repositioning, and couponing. In addition, reduced tar cigarettes will continue to grow.
Product concepts and research that may lead to new products include: low tar/high flavor,
reduced nicotine, low smoke, sc:rrated smoke aroma, flavored cigarette and new devices.
Tr,qrfe- CharTneis
Competitive pressures, rising costs and thin profit margins will continue to affect wholesalers
resulting in consolidations, mergers and liquidations. In addition, retail environments will
continue to be affected by consumer's buying patterns which are in response to their
lifestyles and economic circumstances.
f>rlarketing Mix
Non-media expenditures for merchandising and couponing have steadily risen over the last
five years. During the plan period, this increase is expected to continue as competition
reinvests a substantial portion of price increase revenue into retail promotional programs to
stabilize premium brands and to gain share in the growing and intensely price competitive
discount category.
Retail Pricing
Over the plan period, premium retail prices (cartons) are forecasted to increase 9.1 %
annually. The average retail price of 85mm premium products (without coupons) is projected
to approach the $20.00 per carton mark in 1992-93 and the $3.00 per pack mark in 1995-
1996.
.
2
INDUSTRY VOLUME TRENDS
Industry volume of 509.2 billion in 1991 was down 12.6 billion versus 1990, continuing a
declining trend which began in 1982. Over the past five years, U.S. cigarette volume has
declined at a compounded annual rate of 2.6%. Factors which continue to negatively
influence volume Include the health controversy, the declining social acceptability of smoking,
Increased smoking restrictions, particularly in the work place, rising excise taxes and prices,
and the decline in the number of new people reaching smoking age.
During the upcoming five years, we anticipate cigarette volume to continue to decline based
on an additional excise tax increase in 1993 and the continued hostile smoking environment.
Sales of cigarettes in the U.S. are projected to decrease an average of 2.7% per year
between 1991 and 1996, reaching 443.5 billion in 1996. While premium brands will continue
to fuel the decline, decreasing an estimated 5.8% per year, discount brands will continue to
grow, albeit more slowly, presumably keeping some consumers in the marketplace.
INDUSTRY VOLUME TRENDS
Total m=~~~--=Prerniurn ~ ~ ~ `~ D;SCOL'nt
600
400,'
200-;
626.5
0
'81 '83 '86 '87 '89 '91 '93 '95 '96
~n•ce; PM-USA Marks'ing Research
.
COMPOUNDED ANNUAL VOLUME GROWTH
(9/0)
1986-1991 1991-1 ~ 1a
Total Industry (2.6) (2.7)
Premium Brands (6.3) (5.8)
Discount Brands 19.7 4.7
3
L
Notwithstanding the forecasted industry decline, PM-USA will continue to address the
challenge this forecast provides in order to lessen the effect on our volume and share.
Corporate Affairs will continue to provide information and support issues concerning social
and work place restrictions which have been placed on smokers. They will also continue to
lobby for minimal state and federal excise tax increases, so as to lessen retail price
increases. From a product development perspective, PM-USA will develop new products to
meet the continued demands of our changing market, e.g. more flavorful, ultra low tar
products. We will also continue to develop new and innovative products to address the
perceived health and social issues surrounding the cigarette industry. Finally, PM-USA will
continue to moderate price increases of our premium brands in order to make smoking less
cost prohibitive.
Assumptions
This industry forecast is based on the following assumptions:
• During the plan period there will not be any major socio-political or technological upheaval
affecting the industry.
• The federal excise tax will rise $2.00/M in January 1993 to $12.00/M per the budget
acc°'~rd r^?chcd in f.overnsJvr 1990. There are no further increases in fcueral yxcise taxes
expec;vd duririg siyp 1992-1996 eian penod.
~ Wtzte excise taxes will rise approximately 7-10% per year. The 1991 weighted average
state excise tax was 25.4 cents per pack, a 6.9% increase over 1990. Assuming a growth
rate of 10% per year, state excise taxes are forecasted to increase to approximately 40.9
cents per pack by the end of the plan period.
• The industry continues to remain relatively price inelastic due partially to the availability of
lower priced alternatives, such as Bristol, which had an average retail carton price (85mm)
of $13.18 in 1991, compared to $17.48 for a premium brand. Elasticity is assumed to be
-.37. This means that for every 10% increase in price, industry volume will decline 3.7%.
4
POPULATION TRENDS
Age
An important trend continues to be the aging of the U.S. population. By 1996, only 12% of
adults will be under the age of 25 and over two-thirds will be 35+.
18-24
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
25-34
ADULT POPULATION AGE PROFILES
1981-1998
35-44
45-54
55+
Although there will be 6.3 million more smoking age adults in 1996 relative to 1991, the
gains will occur among adults in older (over 35) age groups.
ADULT POPULATION GROWTH BY AGE GROUP
1991-1996
of People
6.5
3.7
-4.4
25-? A
35-44
5
45-54
VVT
Incidence
Historically smoking incidence has been lower among the older age groups, and smoking
incidence overall is expected to continue declining due to health, social and price pressures.
As a result, there will be 47.2 million smokers in 1996 compared to 52.6 million in 1991.
I Smoking incidence By Age Group
Incidence %
1991 1 g9g Difference
Under 25 30.9 30.0 (0.9)
25-34 33.5 29.3 (4.2)
35-44 31.3 26.8 (4.5)
45-54 30.0 25.6 (4.4)
55-64 24.2 20.6 (3.6)
65+ 13.6 11.5 (2.1)
Source: Roper (1991 Incidence) and PM-USA Business Planning Estimates (1996)
A demographic model, built up with data from the U.S. Census, Roper and Consumer
Tracking sources, indicates industry losses due to sociodamocraphic effects such as aging
iquating. ;'very five jp:°:r v;~riod s;ncs 1981, the irdustry has ;ast over ':C0 bialion units
41 tZlei4 (e.g., 3,23.7 biiiiocl "t,:llits ii1 1981 519.0 bill'ion
units in 1986). Cigarette volume from new adults (18-22 years of age) entering the market
has not compensated for these losses, and the volume contribution from this group is
declining. In 1981, smokers in this age group contributed 73.6 billion units to the industry;
however, in 1996 this group of new smokers will only contribute 41.7 billion units.
SOCIO/DEMOGRAPHIC INFLUENCES ON INDUSTRY VOLUME
13 Existing Smoker Volume ® New Smoker Volume
1981
Existing Volume CAG%
Source: Business Planning Estimates
1986
(3.70)
1991
(4.61)
1996
(4.63)
The :;qe composition of inc'r,try vOitIrrle will by ?.fferted by these chairfgvs in the
po;^.°'°.`.ion
so that by 1996, 62.8% of volume will come from smokers over the age of 34 vs. 56.3% in
1986.
6
Industry Volume By Age Group
(%)
1 S91 j 99g Diff r~ence
Under 25 13.9 13.4 (0.5)
25-34 26.9 23.8 (3.1)
35-44 24.6 25.9 1.3
45-54 16.6 18.9 2.3
55-64 10.5 10.2 (0.3)
65+ 7.5 7.8 0.3
ISource: PM-USA Business Planning Demoqraphic Model (1996)
These sociodemographic trends highlight the importance to PM-USA of maintaining its
historic strength among entering smokers, retaining smokers as they age, and gaining share
among older age groups so that we can continue to increase our market share to reach
49.7% in 1996.
Race/Ethnicity
r~iother trend ~vh`rlh will Increase in importence over the plan period is the changing
mix r i-he U.S, population. By 19U'3, v;e estimate ahere will be 2 tni;iio;7
;.D ac Bia~,~, Asian or i ~is; ar ic.
The Asian Adult population will increase 48.~% compared to 1981; the number of Hispanics
will grow 34.4% and the number of Blacks will increase 22.5%.
ADULT POPULATION INCREASE
1981 vs 1996
White Black
Source: U.S. Census Bureau and PfN-USA Business Planning Estimates
Hispanic
Asian
While smoking incidence varies considerably among these groups (ranging from 16% among
A.3ia^s to 29.7% amorig Blacks), it is evident that they represent an important volume
uppcrtuntty. During the plan period PM-USA will hold its reLr 6G;o sihara of H,spanius, and
will increase its 19.3% share among Blacks primarily via the launch of B&H King Size. In
addition, we will build upon our 61.3% share among Asians through intensified marketing
programs.
7
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SMOKING INCIDENCE BY RACEJETHNICITY
(1991)
White Black Hispanic
Source: Roper, Hispanic Tracking and PM-USA Business Planning Estimates
28.1%
29.7%
Asian
Nielsen County Type
Population density, characterized by Nielsen A,B, C and D counties, is a strong determinant
of industry performance. Industry volume has been declining in urban environments at a
rate several times that of non-urban counties.
INDUSTRY VOLUME DECLINES BY NIELSEN COUNTY SIZE
Source: SPACE: 3 Month Average
Nielsen A
Nielsen B
Nielsen CJD
This industry erosion in major metros is being driven by smoking incidence declines and
broader smoking restrictions, acting to, offset population shifts which have favored cities and
suburbs.
8
CHANGE IN SMOKING INCIDENCE BY NIELSEN COUNTY SIZE
1986 vs 1991
%Char aej
1.5
-6.0
Nielsen A
Source: Roper
I
I
I
I
-3.0
Nielsen B
Nielsen C
Nielsen D
During the plan period it is anticipated that the pressures and restrictions in urban areas will
continue to mount, potentially affecting PM-USA's business since 68% of our smokers reside
in Nielsen A & B counties.
Occupation
Since 1981, smoking prevalence has decreased among all occupations (white collar and
blue collar) for males. Among females, decreases were generally smaller, with the smallest
decline occurring among the blue collar workers.
SMOKING INCIDENCE BY OCCUPATION
(%)
Males Females
1>3$1 1m SiJ1S. 1$$1 1m t'i119i*
White Collar:
Professional, Top 29.3 21.6 (7.7) 28.1 21.8 (6.3)
Management
Small Business 40.6 29.9 (10.7) 38.6 28.0 (10.6)
Owners
Clerical and 35.0 28.5 (6.5) 33.9 23.7 (10.2)
Sales
Blue Collar:
Skiiied/Unskilled 44.6 37.7 (6.9) 37.1 34.8 (2.3)
Laborers
Service Workers 41.1 36.2 (4.9) 35.4 31.0 (4.4)
Source: Roper
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9
I
Education
Smoking continues to be skewed more heavily toward the less educated. Approximately
38% of smokers (age 25-54) have attained some college education, whereas approximately
55% of non-smokers in that same age group have some college education. Similarly, 20.9%
of smokers (age 25-54) did not graduate from high school compared to 10.7% of non-
smokers.
Smokers
(25-54)
13.9%
24.5%
40.7%
Source: Roper
~ Non H.S. Grad
H.S. Grad
~ ~ Some Cc!lera
El College Grad
10.7%
in general, since 1981 Incidence has declined more among men than women:
• Smoking among males has declined -at all education levels.
• Among women who did not graduate from high school incidence has remained flat.
• Among female college graduates smoking incidence has declined less than among men,
possibly due to a lower base incidence in 1981.
'OK:~a ATT,t;:N°rEna•t'
W ~. - ... . . . . ~....-. ~
(%)
Males Females
1$81 j.i3$1 S'ch44 1i38j j.$$1 SrhQl.
Non-High School 42.3 37.4 (4.9) 32.0 32.6 +0.6
Gr.;duate
High School 40.1 33.1 (7.0) 33.9 28.0 (5.9)
Graduate
Some College 34.4 29.0 (5.4) 30.2 24.1 (6.1)
College Graduate 26.8 19.7 (7.1) 20.8 17.0 (3.8)
Source: Ro er
These changing profiles, coupled with an aging population, may have particular irnpact on
PM-USA, whoGe c°<<noqraphic riroi:le is skewed to younger, better educated and hi^:ier
income smokers.
10
EDUCATIONAL PROFILE
1991-
Non-Smokers
(25-54)
PRODUCT CATEGORY TRENDS
Discount Category
Demographics
The discount category will continue to be a dynamic segment in the tobacco industry,
supported by growing legitimacy, increased advertising support, brand/packing proliferation
and/or repositioning, and aggressive couponing. During the upcoming five years, discount
brands' share of the industry is expected to increase approximately 11.1 points over the plan
period, to 36.1% in 1996. During the past five years, the discount category has grown 16.1
share points to 25.0% in 1991. This market category has grown in every demographic
segment, even among groups that historically have been less price conscious, for example,
smokers under 35 and those living in Nielsen A counties.
Discount Penetration By Demographic Group
1986 vs. 1991
Men 3.8% 13.2%
Vlo m e n 4.6 16.5
' i r:"
Under 25 1.5 5.3
25-34 3.3 12.2
Over 35 U 1$-4
35-44 5.3 16.2
45-54 4.9 19.5
55+ 5.7 20.9
No College 4.7 16.9
Some College 3.9 13.0
Nielsen A 2.5 8.7
8 4.5 14.6
t~ 5.2 20.0
D 6.3 23.1
Source: PM-USA Consumer Tracking
Read: In 1986, 3.8% of all male smokers smoked a discount brand.
11
Discount brands have also begun to grow among Blacks, and future growth is expected to
resemble the trend among Whites.
DISCOUNT BRAND EVOLUTION
White Discount - Black Discount
9-6 of Discount Brand Smokers in the Market
14
12
10
I
.
s
.
0 1980 1982 1984 1986 1988 1990 1992
Source: PM-USA Consumer Tracking and Consumer Research projections
Segment Development
The increased availability of discount brands in convenience outlets, in particular, has fueled
the growth in this category. In 1988, 31% of discount sales were in convenience stores, and
this percentage grew to 40.9% in 1991. This growth in convenience stores particularly
affected PM-USA, since in 1991 47% of our total sales were in convenience stores.
T RADE CLASS SHARE OF DISCOUNT aALES
€1 Convenience ® Supermarkets ® Grocery Stores 13 Drug Store
40.9
Projected Black
Discount
12
Discount brands' share is anticipated to grow 11.1 points over the plan period to 36.1% in
1996. This growth will be realized primarily in the sub-generic and black & white/private label
subsegments of the discount category.
MARKET SHARE OF DISCOUNT SUBSEGMENTS
Difference
1991-96
Branded Generics 2.7 10.7 11.0 0.3
Price-off - 0.5 0.2 (0.3)
Value 25's/30's 1.9 0.5 0.3 (0.2)
Sub-Generics - 6.8 12.5 5.7
B&W/PL La 8.5 12-1 5.6
Total 8.9 25.0 36.1
Source: MSA and Market Research Estimates
Historically, PM-USA's premium brands were relatively insulated from the growing discount
segment due arimariiy to their younger smoker base and urban skew. In 1986, PM's
JFO-'{_. 1 y,jl<':' :3y?itc~'1G~t~ ±(i:"71 i reilC! n d`J
t. ~~`,'i ,~'i:`r~tr'`~f~~`~ ..,.t~;.} f' dX,;
-o Ci`izcourt. In '359t, however, PM r,rernium I%,i•arrGs !j`i`otributed 93% cf thG'r fa;r
share of switchers and an estimated 101 % of their fair share of alternate purchases of
discount brands.
PM's SHARE OF PREMIUM TO DISCOUNT SWITCHING
1986
PM Share of Premium Smokers 39.6%
PM % of Fair Share 84%
EI Madboro O Other Prentium
1987
39.7%
85%
1988
42.0%
94%
1989
44.6%
87%
1990
46.6%
94%
1991
48.9%
93%
~ Source: PM-USA Corsumer Tracking
Batween switching and P.iternate purchasing, it is estimated that PPr9's premium brands are
;,urreni:y contftuting 4o thcir fr:ir share of vl;ilj,ne to the discount category. Du>.`no the
plan p~lltiUU, aciions wiii ~:=; taken to in;;ulaie ihe srns,ictirs of yiariboro and our other
;:E•~~rnium
brands from the allure of price incentives sur:h that h.4a~r[bc: o and our rth er premium trands
are !d>re;asted to contribute 57"-:•'o and 43%, o` fair share to discount gro~-.vth over the 1991-
1 S.:r3 period, respectively.
13
Low/Ultra Low Tar Category
The tar delivery of filter cigarettes has been an important product attribute affecting smokers'
brand/packing choices since the mid-70's. The low/ultra low tar category has grown steadily
and as of year-end 1991 comprised 54.1 % of the total market.
0 Non-Filter
Percentage
100
80
60
40
20 1
~ ,__.... ._. .. ._. ,.~,......~___
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31
r
Source: MSA and Market Fiesearch Estimates
INDUSTRY COMPOSITION BY TAR LEVEL
1981-1996
® Full Flavor Low Tar
1986
1991
13 Uftra Low Tar
Low/ultra low tar cigarettes have steadily increased in popularity among adult smokers under
25 and in 1991 commanded a 47.7 share among adult smokers under 25. Among all other
age groups low/ultra low tar packings are preferred by the majority.
TAR PREFERENCE BY AGE GROUP
% Prefering Low T^r4.lrtra Low Tar
60 .,
1
1
Under 25 25-34
Source: PM-USA Consumer Tracking
01981 01986 r•1991
35-44
45-54
55+
During tne next five years, the low tar category will continue to grow fueled primarily by the
incrt,ase in the cL-,,-cent of older smokers, ln addition, as smokers who enter the market
snlu-iing a low u i i7jr'czi:d iiiature, some will G:;C:lGv io switch farther down 'ale tar spectrum
stimulating growth in 'he ultra !ow tar segment to 16.7% by 1998. iPM-USA will capitalize on
this trend during the plan period by launching line extensions of Marlboro and Merit into the
ultra low/ super ultra low tar segments and develop new filter and filler technologies which will
deliver more flavor at lower tar levels.
14
Menthol Category
The menthol category will continue to decline, primarily due to two factors: its lack of appeal
among White young adult smokers and the rapid decline in smoking incidence among
Blacks (36.9% in 1986 vs 29.7% in 1991), over 70% of whom smoke a menthol.
WHITE SMOKERS
M1981 ®1986 1991
% Who Smoke Menthol
MENTHOL CHOICE BY RACE
BLACK SMOKERS
®1981 ®1986 1991
% Who Smoke Menthol
100.0 ..
32.1
89.0 88.1
836824 84.7
78.6
Under 25
25-34
35-44
75.1
The menthol category is projected to decline 2.1 share points to 23.8 in 1996. This loss of
26.4 billion units of menthol volume over the plan period is expected to cause competition
among B&W, RJR and Lorillard to intensify since these three companies have an 72.1 share
of the menthol category. Since PM-USA has only 21.6 share of menthol, our sales overall
will be less affected. However, because B&H and Virginia Slims sales are 32.2% menthol,
this trend will impact their sales performance. To offset the effect on B&H, we are scheduled
fin 'atanch B&H ,fl-~? Size in 1992.
Product Cf~tcgcri w~s
In support of our strategy to extend the equity of our premium trademarks, PM-USA will be
developing innovative products that provide tangible added value for consumers. This will
help deliver insulation from the discount category for our premium brands by offering unique
attributes that lower price products can't match.
In 1991, there were no major new product developments tested by industry firms. Discount
and reduced tar cigarettes continue to dominate the new product segment with 71% of the
new packings introduced in 1991 being low tar or ultra low tar, Out of the 31 new packings
introduced, 23 packings or 74% were discount brands.
Product concepts and research that may lead to new products include:
•Low T;?r,/-b.jghFlav_o_r_: PM-USA's objective is to develop efficient 4-6 mg products with
aouiv3lent consumer taste perception to flavor low tar products. Products that have
y r "A from r:-,dn.xc1,h ir7 this area are 'V;e;it #Jltima, Cambridge n.nd Br~Aol LowV:>t, and
frlu7;horo Ultra Lights.
• Redummd NicQ ine• PM-USA has been testing de-nicotinized cigarettes in several markets
since 1990 under the brand name Next and as line extensions of Merit and B&H.
Currently, we are test marketing B&H De-Nic only in Arizona, where results have been
disappointing. in general, tests have revealed that consumers are interested in the
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concept of a de-nicotinized cigarette, but are frequently dissatisfied with the product's
taste. To address the taste issue, PM-USA is currently investigating the potential of a
reduced nicotine cigarette or "Haif-Nic", rather than de-nicotinized.
• Low Smoke: The product is designed to produce less visible smoke from the lit end than
a standard cigarette. Products tested by RJR and PM-USA have relied on paper
technology and reductions in tobacco content to achieve the desired results. PM-USA is
using the concept in Virginia Slims' Super Slims, which offers two unusual product
characteristics: reduced side stream smoke and a smaller cigarette circumference. RJR
test marketed Vantage Excel 100's (a low side stream smoke product) in 1989, but the
cigarette was withdrawn after lack of consumer interest. The future viability of this
concept is dependent on its ability to deliver satisfying taste and the successful
communication of the product's benefits to smokers.
• Scented Smoke Aroma: The concept of a scented cigarette is to minimize or eliminate
the discomfort of smoking to others, which could lead to it becoming more socially
acceptable. RJR has been test marketing since 1990, a brand named Horizon, a vanilla
scented product with advertising claiming it to be "The First Cigarette That Smells Good".
Horizon has reported a shipment share in its test markets of 0.1% to 0.2%. In 1991, RJR
discontinued the testing of another scented brand, Chelsea, a smaller circumference
cigarette similar to VS Super Slims. PM-USA is investigating the potential of scented
cigarettes through project Ambrosia.
• Flavored Cigarettes: Menthol's appeal among young adult smokers has been declining
in recent years. Flavored cigarettes may present an opportunity to gain trial and
conversion from smokers that may want additional flavor but find Menthol too harsh.
Lorillard has resurrected a lemon flavored cigarette, Spring Lemon Lights, which began
testing as a non-menthol in 1989 and was discontinued in late 1990. The brand is
currently being test marketed as a menthol mixed with lemon flavorings.
• New Devices: Since the introduction and subsequent withdrawal of RJR's Premier, no
new smoking articles have been introduced. Development activity on these type of
products continues by PM-USA, RJR and BAT. It is anticipated that pharmaceutical and
biotechnology companies will continue developing products that are designed to aid a
smoker in quitting. Currently, Marion Merril Dow markets Nicorette, a prescription
nicotine chewing gum and Alza Corp., Ciba-Geigy and Cygnus/Warner Lambert have
gained FDA approval for a nicotine delivery skin patch. The market for skin patches has
been estimated by pharmaceutical industry analysts to reach approximately $1 billion
dollars by 1995.
Packaging
As premium cigarette prices continue to increase and competition from discount brands
intensifies, some companies will consider new packaging concepts to make premium brands
more affordable or to add value to justify the premium price. Examples of these two
concepts were evident in 1991 as, Lorillard tested the Newport half pack (sold at half the
price of a 20 pack) in two southern states and RJR unveiled "The Wrap" for Winston and
Salem.
RJR is actively using new packaging concepts to create "product news" in an attempt to
enhance brand equity and build smoker loyalty for their premium brands which have been
suffering double digit volume and share declines in recent years. In July 1991, RJR
introduced Winston in a new aluminized foil wrap packaging and claimed that it maintained
freshness longer than traditional cellophane packaging. In November, Salem was also
introduced with "The Wrap". It is too early to tell if these packaging innovations have had an
impact on Winston and Salem's performance.
16
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RJR is also testing a sliding box package for Dakota and is test marketing a new dual use
packaging on Vantage Ultra Lights. The dual use package is similar to a conventional box
packaging, but will also convert to a soft pack type access by tearing off part of the pack's
top. PM-USA tested a similar packaging concept on B&H in the early 1980's that generated
little consumer interest.
As part of our strategy to create economies of scale, we plan to use SKU's to our strategic
advantage. New packaging, like the 5 pack carton and B&H Kings rounded corner box,
provide consumer value and help put pressure on our competitors slow moving packings.
Marlboro will be launching in August 1992, a 5 pack carton that provides the consumer with
an alternative to the large cash outlay of a traditional pack carton.
Another potential packaging concepts is the twin pack configuration. In addition, PM-USA is
exploring new pack material textures and graphics to update brand packaging.
Environmental concerns and possible future ecological legislation may require manufacturers
and suppliers to develop packaging and cigarette filters that are biodegradable and include a
specified percentage of recycled material. Any packaging changes will be evaluated
meticulously for consumer acceptability and quality assurance.
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TRADE CHANNELS
Wholesale Community
Competitive pressures, rising costs and thin profit margins have brought about an increasing
number of consolidations, mergers and liquidations of tobacco wholesalers. In many cases,
a tobacco distributor's profitability does not generate enough working capital to make
necessary investments in warehousing, technology, processing equipment and delivery
vehicles to remain competitive with larger food wholesalers. The consolidation trend is
evident in a review of PM-USA's top 100 customers over the last ten years. Comparing 1981
with today, 60% of the accounts remain in the top 100 (includes corporate structural changes
and the military), 25% have been acquired or been involved in a merger and 15% are no
longer in the top 100 or have gone out of business.
• Since 1985, the number of wholesale tobacco distributors has decreased 17% to 1,257. If
this trend continues, by 1996 there will be approximately 1,000 tobacco wholesalers
remaining. Wholesale grocers have also declined 18% to 540. Combined, these
channels represented about 78°'0 of direct sales.
• Direct retailers, representing 22% of direct sales, have increased steadily since 1985 and
now total about 500 accounts. Helping to expand this category is the increased popularity
c ' -iholesale price ciubs such as Sam's and Price Chopper, which snr»ioA many small
~ ~~ur-ts and --etailers.
We expect this trend to continue since smaller tobacco distributors are under increasing
economic strain. Brand proliferation, manufacturers price increases and growing receivables
have diluted wholesaler working capital. This problem is compounded by a 13% decline in
inventory turns since 1985. Those that remain in the business will need to focus on
improving their financial position and capital structure, increase technological applications,
increase efficiency to reduce overhead, diversify into more profitable product lines, expand
into new markets and increase value added services.
Another factor working against the financial health of tobacco wholesalers is the current US
banking crisis. Wholesalers have traditionally been dependent on bank financing to respond
to cigarette manufacturers' trade programs. There is a possibility that some distributors may
t;~~d ;t d:fficult to obtain credit ^s bankers become increasingly conservative in their lending
~,w:t:c; s. This cou'd accelerate consolidation vf the industry in tt3e near future.
Coe of ihe most notauie consolidations in the d;stribut'ron carraifiunity was the acquisition :r'
the McLane Company, PM's largest customer, by Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. This increased
McLane's average weekly volume by 23% to approximately 265 million units or 6.3% of PM's
average weekly volume and assured McLane retail distribution to approximately 1,600 Wal-
Mart and 150 Sam's Wholesale Club retail locations.
18
THE RETAIL UNIVERSE IN THE 1990's
Trade Class Management:
During the 1980's, consumers began to alter their cigarette purchase patterns in response to
their lifestyle and economic circumstances. This has contributed to the growth of cigarette
volume in trade classes such as convenience and gas stores, which have aggressively
promoted the cigarette category and as a result have increased their share of industry sales
from 26% in 1984 to 34% in 1991. There has been a corresponding decline in the grocery
and drug categories.
INDUSTRY RETAIL SALES BY TRADE CLASS
(%)
12
34
3ource: PM-USA SPACE 1984 1991
Associated with the growth in the convenience store trade class has been the shift in
consumer purchase patterns toward packs. Since 1984, pack purchases have increased
to 59; of ;.' o'. ~~. Civ iding trade ciasses into pack ari ^arton
`;y .,.~ ~~ ,. :s ~j s
~ ~d ~'ir;g:
Carton Qutlets E&GIS Carton Pack gutlets i gnd=
Supermarkets 30% 70% Convenience 85% 15%
Mass Merch. 15% 85% Grocery 60% 40%
Drua Stores 60% 40%
T he proliferation of cigarette packings, along with the general increase in new consumer
products and line extensions, has created intense competition for limited retail space in all
trade classes. PM-USA is competing not only with other cigarette manufacturers for retail
space and visibility but with all consumer product companies.
In tha current business :,erironment, PM-USA will focus efforts on stores with similar
merci^??n.ndising cheracteristics, operating policies and customer bases because each provides
,in opportunity to tailor marketing prograrr,s that provide our brands a competitive advantage.
in ctrdr:r `v fccus r: taiier`s :L:nntion on pr ,muting P,%4-tJSA's brands, we are implementing
'Retaii be.6-,,-j rnwt'chart0a.isg t:ir.;n iiia.t r::wards rotaile.s for t;'.-.'!.1ing r2 s,;-
USA volume thr.avr:h total st:1';: ~ pv rticipaticn. The pian features financial inci-intives for
retailers to emont<size PM's Premium brands, captu, e prirne real estate, reduce out-of-
stocks, support r1ew items and develop private label partnerships.
In supermarkets and mass merchandisers, PM will continue to pursue improvements in retail
v.3ibility and inventory levels, through carton merchandising programs and fixture placement.
In addition, there will be increased emphasis on improving premium brand pack sales in
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carton outlets through a number of marketing and merchandising fixture initiatives. In pack
outlets, PM is working to become the first tier supplier with large convenience, gas and drug
store chains. We are increasing our premium brand retail presence through the
development of account specific promotional and merchandising programs for high volume
chain stores. Although PM will attempt to maintain our fair share of discount brand volume,
we will work to position all low price brands in a secondary retail position to our premium
brands.
Carton Outlets
Supermarkets:
Current trends in the supermarket trade class include:
• Although many large supermarket chains continue to expand the size of their stores, this
trend among intermediate size supermarkets appears to have slowed.
• Generic products are regaining strength due to economic conditions.
• Margins on key categories, some of which have historically subsidized other categories
(health and beauty care), are being reduced by competition from non-supermarkets.
• Labor and related costs are increasing at significant rates and are reducing profitability
faster than margins.
Cigarettes continue to be considered one of the best performing products in supermarkets
and are consistently ranked each year in the top 10 largest selling product groups. Cigarette
inventory turns of 22X outperform the supermarket average of 15X. In 1991 Marlboro
continues to be the leading brand in the trade class with a share of 19.5%, up 0.3 points
versus 1990.
Highlighting the strong performance of discount brands in supermarkets is Doral, which is the
4th largest selling brand in the trade class with a share of 5.8%, an increase of 0.5 points
versus year-ago. Cambridge is also doing well in the trade class with a share of 3.6%. The
discount category has grown rapidly in this trade class in 1991, increasing 4.6 points over
year-ago to a current market share of 26.5%. Supermarket shopper demographics are
similar to discount smokers, with both skewing older (35+) and female. Supermarkets, which
has a high number of deal oriented consumers, provide manufacturers a perfect
environment for implementing aggressive coupon and retail price promotion programs.
% Share 1991 PM-USA B,Zg B&W Lorillard Amer Ltggett
Chain 38.3% 32.3% 8.2% 6.9% 8.1% 6.2%
Change vs. 1990 1.1 (0.8) (0.2) (0.2) (0.3) 0.4
Independent 36.4% 29.5% 9.5% 6.3% 10.5% 7.8%
Change vs. 1990 1.4 (1.9) (0.3) (0.4) 0.6 0.6
Supermarket cigarette sales are predominantly cartons (68%). However, in recent years the
emphasis has switched to the front-end of the store as pack sales comprise a growing
portion of volume (32% in 1991 versus 24% in 1985). Presence at the front end offers an
advantage in terms of impulse buying, new product introductions, availability of packings,
and strong point of sale visibility. For the retailer, pack sales are more profitable on a per unit
basis than carton sales with an average margin of 24% compared to 14% for cartons.
20
Total merchandising spending for the industry in supermarkets has increased 17% annually
since 1984. Pack spending has taken on greater significance in this trade class and now
represents 21% of total payments.
Merchandising Spending Estimates
Supermarket Trade Ciass
$ in Millions
im PIVI-USA BstB B$c1~C 1~4111hLS! 9m€i: Ltqqett IstW
Carton $63.9 $51.1 $29.1 $17.3 $16.4 $11.0 $188.0
Pack 28.5 J3,2 1¢ DA Q,g Q,Q 49.1
Total $92.4 $71.0 $29.5 $17.4 $16.6 $11.0 $237.9
1984
Carton $21.7 $22.2 $15.3 $9.2 $7.0 $3.4 $78.8
Pack
Total $21.7 $22.2 $15.3 $9.2 $7.0 $3.4 $78.8
Pack Outlets
Convenience and Gas Stores:
Convenience and gas stores combined represent the largest trade class for industry cigarette
volume. With total sales in 1991 of $8.1 billion, cigarettes were the number one ranked in-
store category. Cigarette sales in the trade class increased by 9.5% over 1990. Pack sales
continue to gain share in convenience stores, accounting for 85% of sales in 1991 vs 70% in
1986. In addition, discount brands are increasing their share of convenience stores'
business, increasing 6.4 points versus 1990 to 24% in 1991.
In general, changing consumer lifestyles will continue to favor the growth of this trade class.
The convenience store's average shopper demographic profile is very similar to cigarette
purchasers.
Cigarette Purchasers
Daily C-Store ShoRpers In C-Stores
Sex 2-to-1 male 61% male
Age 60% adults under 34 62% adults under 34
Education 75% no college 60% no college
Over the last five years, the total number of stores in the trade class has grown 11% to
84,500. This is comprised of a 30% increase in gas stores to 32,500 outlets and relatively no
growth among traditional convenience stores, which have been flat at about 52,000. As the
number of stores and customers have grown, the percent of industry cigarette volume sold in
convenience outlets has increased from 23% in 1985 to 38% in 1990. PM-USA is
substantially ahead of the competition in this trade class with a 1991 share of 47%.
% Share 1991 PM-USA g,jg B&W Lorillard gp1g~ Ligaett
Total Convenience 46.9% 28.2% 8.5% 6.3% 6.1 % 4.0%
Change vs. 1990 0.6 (1.3) (0.4) (0.6)_ __ 0.9 0.6
Recently, several major convenience store chains have reported financial difficulties that
could further reduce the number of stores. Circle K, which is currently operating under
Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings, has announced plans to shut or sell 1,500 of its 3,700
stores over the next 12 to 18 months. Southland Corporation (7-11) emerged from Chapter
11 in March 1991 and is now largely controlled by its Japanese affiliates. .
Total merchandising spending for the industry in the convenience and gas trade class has
increased 20% annually since 1984. Pack spending in 1991 represents 74% of total
payments versus 60% in 1984. PM-USA accounts for 44% of total merchandising spending
in this trade class.
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Merchandising Spending Estimates
Convenience and Gas Trade Class
$ in Millions
1991 PM-USA RJR P&'_V Lor;ltargi Amer Liogett j:ota~
Carton $25.1 $16.0 $9.8 $2.7 $6.0 $2.3 1, 31.9
i; a ui,; Y~ ELE 1717
Total .
$102.3 $69.6 $32.8 $15.0 $12.6 ~ :~.3 $234.6
198"
Carton $9.0 $7
6 $5.8 $1.3 $1.7 $0.4 $25.8
Pack 12.7 .
12.2 M 5-1- 1.7 DA am
Total $21.7 $19.8 $12.4 $6.4 $3.4 $0.5 $64.2
MARKETING MIX
Industry marketing spending increased an average of 13.2% per year between 1986 and
1991, reaching approximately $5,622.2 million in 1991. It is estimated that in 1991, PM-USA
•had the highest marketing expenditures in absolute dollars, but ranked fifth in regards to
spending on a per thousand basis.
INDUSTRY ".:A's~~KE17li4G 8'A"PENCJtIUe.
'" °
..~~. _~• €~
~ ._ aAUCL
r-ivi-USA ' $2,101.1 $212.0 $4.25 18.2a,
RJR 1,986.4 14.02 1,185.0 6.29 10.9
B&W 567.0 10.02 347.0 5.10 10.3
Loriliard 408.3 11.05 277.0 5.88 8.1
Amer 438.7 12.25 202.0 4.83 16.8
Liggett 120.7 fim 107.0 1.$.4 2.4
Total $5,622.2 $11.04 $3,030.0 $5.21 13.2%
Within total marketing spending, there has been a shift to retail price promotion at the
expense of traditional advertising. Industry media spending has fluctuated over the last five
years, r;sing from $732 million in 1986 to a high of $790 million in 1989, and then falling to
$637 million in 1991. In 1986, media represented 24% of total marketing spending, while
and ,r-nonina 1°:pc P7%., ir ('•,.,nir.^P' nf3n-meC``'q "e.rs for
r:i°,..~r:~~Sinyiand c0;lw'';ling si?s s'te~tG~tEy risrn t5y:.'~ :~te i~srt f:.~o year; ~Si~,oi'E=
s. i~,~'.3 <'ttllion in
1986 to $2.1 billion i,,s 1991. These non-media expendiiures now cot:.pEis: 37-:r;; Ol¢ tra'aI
industry marketing spending versus 11% for media. This is anticipated to continue in the
future, as competitors reinvest a substantial portion of price increase revenue into retail
promotional programs to stabilize premium brands and to gain share in the growing and
intensely price competitive discount category.
22
MEDIA vs COUPONING/MERCHANDISING SPENDING
w ty ;llions
~
0 Media
1-3 Couponing
r] Merchandising
1986 1991
Fuel~nq the discount category's growth is the consistcnt increase of coupon incid,:r:~;e and
vaEraes in both the branded generic and sUb-geneVic segments. In addition, 1-sveral
competitors are attempting to mitigate or stabilize premium brands' decline rates through the
use of coupons. RJR has been very aggressive in couponing both their premium and
discount brands in 1991. Per our strategy, PM-USA has maintained one of the lowest
premium couponing rates in the industry. In addition, PM pursued a strategy of remaining
competitive in the discount category and continued to match competitive coupon levels in
both the branded generic and sub-generic segments.
1991 Average Coupon Incidence and Values
Premium D1smaIIt
g[a fi_~d on Deal Ava. Valu_e % Soid on 1ea! AV-9. Ya(Ue
PM-USA 9.8% $2.58 60.0% $2.38
Rd' R
.~..- . 37.2
7.4 1.64
1.4J 65.2
E 2.4 e.6:.
Lariifard 26.7 1.93 0.0 0:0
Amer 4.6 1.67 48.9 1.76
iLiggett im 16-5 L22
lndustrY Avg. 21.5% $1.81 45.7% $2.23
Estimated media expenditures indicate that discount brands are increasing as a percent of
total spending. Within the premium category, RJR has decreased spending by 43% to $144
million and American has declined by 46% to $22 million, since 1986. Although PM-USA
premium brand spending appears relatively flat, a tradeoff has occurred over the last five
years between Marlboro and other premium brands. Marlboro spending in 1991 (influenced
by Medium) was $143 million, an increase of 32% over 1986, while other premium brands
declined 38% to $81 million. For discount brands, American led all competitors with
spending of $43 million on their sub-generic products: Misty, Montclair and Bull Durham.
23
ESTIMATED MEDIA EXPENDITURES
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i$.$j.
Premium JQfsg4StOf
L4f81 198g
Premium )Dj,scounf
TQ181 Total
5 (.tSt9Sa
PM-USA $224.0 $32.3 $256.3 $246.0 $56.0 $302.0 (3.2)%
RJR 144.1 14.0 158.1 254.0 10.0 264.0 (9.7)
B&W 44.9 16.2 61.1 28.0 19.0 47.0 5.4
Lorillard 86.7 0.2 86.9 75.0 0.0 75.0 3.0
Amer 22.4 43.4 65.8 41.0 0.0 41.0 9.9
Liggett 5.6 q..5 9.1 2.3 0.7 3.0 24.8
Total $527.7 $109.6 $637.3 $646.3 $85.7 $732.0 (2.7)%
Manufacturers appear to be realizing that merely emphasizing price on discount brands
Increases the danger of cigarettes becoming little more than a commodity in the mind of the
consumer. This would make product differentiation extremely difficult and discourage brand
loyalty. In response, we anticipate that manufacturers will continue to increase the amount
of advertising in an attempt to build brand equity for discount products.
Retail Pricing
Over the plan period, premium retail prices (cartons) are forecasted to increase 9.1 %
annually. The average retail price of 85mm premium products (without coupons) is projected
to approach the $20.00 per carton mark in 1992-93 and the $3.00 per pack mark in 1995-
1996.
ESTIMATED AVERAGE PREMIUM RETAIL PRICE (85 mm)
(1991-1996)
Source: PM-USA Merket Research
As premium brands near the $20.00 per carton threshold, smokers will be driven to purchase
packs rather than cartons or switch to discount brands. In an effort to retain Marlboro carton
buyers, PM-USA will develop and launch half-cartons in 1992. in addition, Marlboro Express
will be developed and tested in 1993 for value sensitive pack buyers.
24
SOCIETY SUMMARY
Cigarette smoking has evolved from a majority adult habit to a minority act, enjoyed by a
weakened social constituency. Consequently, the political and social base of the smoker has
eroded and opinion leaders have begun turning against the industry, supporting legislation,
litigation, and non-profit anti-smoking groups that seek to restrict smoking. During the plan
period, the cigarette industry will be required to defend and protect its rights as a result of:
• States increasing state excise taxes to compensate for weak local economies and fiscal
budgets.
• Employers adopting employment practices that discriminate against individuals based on
.,
legal lifestyle decisions pursued off premises during non-working hours.
Anti-smoking forces continuing using the environmental tobacco smoke controversy to
restrict people's right to smoke.
• States and local governments legislating restrictions and bans on the sales and
marketing activities for tobacco products.
• Legislations requiring that cigarettes be self-extinguishing.
• Environmentalists mandating product specifications on the marketplace.
• Attitudes towards smoking.
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Taxation
The current federai cigarette excise tax is 20 cents per pack. A 6:..ur cent increase took effec;
on January 1, 1991, and another increase of 4 cents per pack is scheduled to take ef+ect on
.~ ~;nuary 1, 1 ~ry3. In 1;~g i, five bills were proi:::. ~~u to fu;ther increa, : the fedc aE
s,:;;` L,-; tc-_;:
rate, but none of these proposals was passed out of corr:r.-i;ttee.
We estimate weighted average annual state excise tax increase= will be in the 7% to 10%
range during the plan period. Two forces will drive these increases:
• The primary force is the weak economy and consequent fiscal deficits. If the national
recession persists, state revenue growth will lag behind costs for essential services. The
National Conference of State Legislatures has predicted major budget problems in '133
Ltates.
STATES WITH BUDGET PROBLEMS
Sourc•s Netlonal Conference Of Stat• L•plelatun• And Other Sources
• The other force is the anti-smoking movement. It argues that smokers should pay for the
alleged "social costs" of smoking imposed on the economy and bear a larger burden of
spiraling health care costs through increased excise taxes. Cigarette smoking has been
inappropriately linked to productivity losses, job absenteeism, rising health care costs and
Increases in various types of Insurance. Anti-smoking forces also believe that rising retail
prices will infiuence smokers to quit.
In 1991, excise tax increases were proposed in 36 states. The 1991 weighted average state
excise tax rose to 25.4 cents per pack, a 1.6 cent or 6.9% increase over 1990.
26
SMOKING RESTRICTIONS
The environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) controversy continues to be used by anti-smoking
forces to restrict the opportunity to smoke. In recent years, despite success in defeating
state-wide bans, the number and scope of these restrictions have increased significantly in
the private sector and they are expected to continue to grow. Because of this success at
halting or modifying state legislation restricting smoking, anti-smoking activists have turned to
federal agencies and localities to push for additional restrictions.
Number of States
SMOKING RESTRICTIONS
STATE LEGISLATION
1985 -1991
N INTRODUCED
E] APPROVED
44
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During 1991 the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) issued a
report urging that smoking be banned in all workplaces. The major impetus behind this was
the findings of the Environmental Protection Agency's Scientific Advisory Board which stated
in a preliminary report that ETS should be considered a class A carcinogen.
• In 1991, 227 localities introduced and 131 adopted legislation to restrict smoking or
tighten existing restrictions on smoking. 44 states introduced legislation to restrict
smoking. Of the 4 states which passed laws, none was overly restrictive.
• 52.1% of the Fortune 50 companies surveyed had policies that either banned or limited
smoking to designated areas. An additional 35.4% had some smoking restrictions that
varied at different levels and s„noking may have been permitted in private offices.
rnr
..~;~ i:,=: r
1~;=;3
1 eG9 I S-Sfl
1991
• Twelve states proposed legislation preempting local smoking restrictions. One state,
Nevada, passed such legislation. A bill remains pending in :,;assfachusetts.
• Seventeen states introduced legislation to require smoking areas be provided. Bills have
been passed in three states (MT, NV, VA). Bills are pending in New York and
Massachusetts.
29
States representing 42% of the U.S. market now have legislation protecting smokers from
employment discrimination.
ENACTED PRIVACY LEGISLATION TO PROHIBIT
DISCRIMINATION AGAINST SMOKERS
1989-1991
Discriminatory hiring practices are opposed by an overwhelming majority of Americans.
According to a national poll released in 1990 by the National Consumer's League, three out
of four registered voters surveyed felt employers had no right to ask about the private lives of
job applicants, base hiring or firing decisions on what employees do on their own time, or
force a change in an employee's lifestyle.
• 74% said an employer has no right to ask employees if they smoke off the job.
4
'e:, f':;v -;r;.picyer i•s_s no r:jitt'o r---fuse to hire a smoker.
• i.4% felt the employer has no right to require an emp3cayb,~ or applicGI dl .o tirnok;rEg.
Similarly, many of the nation's leading newspapers, including the New York Times and the
Chicago Tribune, have recently run editorials opposing such invasions of privacy. Time,
Business Week, and other major news and business publications have run feature stories on
employee privacy.
Over the plan period, states will continue to pass legislation prohibiting employers from
making employment decisions based on lifestyle decisions. Popular support for privacy
legislation will also broaden. By the end of the plan period, we believe nearly all states will
enact laws which ban employment discrimination against smokers.
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The current trend toward more restrictive measures will continue through the plan period. It is
anticipated that proposals will become increasingly restrictive, applying to all areas where
smokers and non-smokers interact.
ENVIRONMENTAL TOBACCO SMOKE.(ETS)
The alleged risk posed to nonsmokers by environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) is being
reviewed by the Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA has three draft documents that
address ETS: the ETS compendium, the ETS risk assessment, and the ETS workplace policy
guide.
A. - a 'summary of technical information prepared for the EPA by
scientific consultants, including several well known anti-tobacco advocates. One chapter
reported that ETS causes an estimated 37,000 nonsmoker cardiovascular disease
deaths each year. In June, 1991 EPA made it clear that the compendium is not
intended as "an official EPA document" or to reflect official EPA policy.
B. ETS Risk Assessment- EPA's risk assessment of ETS is an evaluation of the data
available on lung cancer in nonsmoking adults and respiratory effects in children. Based
on 24 epidemiological studies, the EPA draft concluded that ETS is a Category A
carcinogen and a cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers, attributing approximately 3,700
lung cancer deaths per year to ETS. Of the 24 studies listed in the draft report only five
reported a statistically significant association between ETS and lung cancer in
nonsmokers.
Following a period of public comment, the Agency's Scientific Advisory Board essentially
concurred with the results of the findings. However, SAB instructed EPA to undertake
extensive revision of the risk assessment. The draft is currently being revised to
incorporate the SAB comments as well as newly published studies. The EPA is expected
to release a final document during the first quarter of 1992.
C. ETS Workplace Policy Guide - the draft guide, based on the conclusions of risk
assessment and other unsubstantiated health claims, recommends banning smoking
altogether or confining smoking to separately ventilated areas.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued a Request for
Information (RFI) on the overall issue of indoor air quality, which includes ETS. The RFI
would help OSHA determine whether it should proceed with regulatory action regarding
exposure levels to all indoor airborne substances, or possibly selected substances including
ETS.
Following an initial period of public comment, OSHA may publish a proposed standard. The
proposed standard would then be subject to public hearings and possible revisions, after
which a final standard could be issued. This process could take as long as 3-5 years.
All 50 states must comply with OSHA regulations. In addition, 24 states, including some of
our largest markets, have their own OSHAs which can issue rulings that may exceed federal
standards.
In June, 1991 the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) issued an
official bulletin which concluded that ETS is "a potential occupational carcinogen" and
suggested "exposure to ETS is most efficiently controlled by simply eliminating tobacco use
from the workplace. "Short of a total smoking ban, NIOSH follows the EPA guide of
recommending smoking be limited to separately ventilated areas.
Some type of ruling will be made during the plan period affecting the legal ability of smokers
to smoke in public places, workplaces, and other areas open to both smokers and
nonsmokers. Depending upon the outcome, the number of smoking opportunities in an
average day could be severely reduced.
30
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MARKETING RESTRICTIONS
During the plan period, attacks on the tobacco industry's marketing practices will focus on the
allegations that industry marketing activities are aimed at encouraging youth to smoke, as
well as women and minorities. Also, federal funds will be used to force local communities to
restrict tobacco marketing practices. U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Louis
Sullivan's American Stop Smoking Intervention Study program (ASSIST) will provide $135
million over seven years to seventeen state health departments "...to change attitudes about
smoking and counter the sinister marketing strategies of the tobacco industry. "ASSIST will
be augmented by the American Cancer Society which will provide $25-$30 million in
additional funds for lobbying and smoking cessation campaigns.
TRENDS IN MARKETING RESTRICTIONS
• 1950s:
• 1960s:
Federal Trade Commission bans health claims in cigarette advertising;
First Surgeon General's Report on the alleged health effects of smoking;
FTC requires warning labels on cigarette packs;
Anti-smoking groups obtain FCC approval for counter advertising on
television;
• 1970s: Television advertising ban goes in effect;
Health warnings required on all cigarette advertising;
Minimum age requirements for the sale of cigarettes expanded;
• 1980s: Anti-smoking groups claim tobacco industry targets youth, women and
minorities;
Sampling banned in most public places;
Efforts to ban tobacco sports sponsorship -- efforts subsequently defeated;
Efforts to ban all cigarette advertising -- efforts subsequently defeated;
First sales restrictions and bans on vending machines;
• 1990s Anti-smoking groups pass first free-standing display bans; "
Increase in the number of tobacco health warnings required at point-of-
purchase;
Increase in the number of vending and sampling bans and restrictions;
First stadium tobacco advertising bans go into effect;
Anti-smoking groups focus on the passage of advertising restrictions on
public property and mass transit;
Anti-smoking groups renew counter advertising on television and in print
(California Prop. 99 programs).
The period from 1985 through 1991 highlighted a shift by the anti-smoking movement away
from encouraging adults to quit smoking to preventing minors, women and minorities from
starting to smoke. All forms of tobacco sales and marketing practices are under attack. Anti-
smoking organizations are also working with medical groups to pressure elected officials.
However, the tobacco industry has been successful in defeating most sales and marketing
restrictions at the state and federal level. In response, our opponents have shifted their
efforts to localities and federal regulatory agencies. The increased introduction of all forms of
restrictions demonstrates a systematic effort by the anti-smoking organizations to constrict
marketing venues available to tobacco products. This is exemplified by the increasing
number of vending, sampling and outdoor advertising restrictions and bans. In 1991, anti-
smoking forces passed the first bans on free standing displays on the grounds that they
encouraged "shoplifting" of cigarettes by minors (a claim that has never been substantiated).
31
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STATE AD/MARKETING RESTRICTION LEGISLATION
(YEAR TO DATE 1985-1991)
MARKETING RESTRICTIONS INCLUDE:VENDING, ADVERTISING, AND SAMPLING.
LOCAL AD(f,;ARKETING RESTRICTiONS
Year To Date (1985 - 1991)
'87
T
84
219
MARKETING RESTRICTIONS INCLUDE ADVERTSING, VENDING AND SAMPLING
32
® INTRODUCED
#p APPROVED
FIRE PREVENTION
Anti-smoking forces continue to pursue legislation requiring that all cigarettes be "self-
extinguishing". The issue was first raised in 1974 when research conducted by national fire
service organizations indicated that cigarettes were the leading cause of fire-related deaths.
Anti-smoking groups endorse the self-extinguishing, or "Fire Safe", cigarette as a way to
mandate uniform product specifications that could cause all cigarettes to look and taste the
same. Such mandates could cripple the competitive advantage of leading brands and
intensify erosion of the overall cigarette market.
• 1974: Fire prevention groups claim that cigarettes are the leading cause of death in
residential fires.
• 1980: First "self-extinguishing" cigarette legislation is introduced at the state level (MD), and
reaches a peak of 19 states considering such legislation by 1983.
• 1984: Congress establishes the Technical Study Group (TSG) to examine the feasibility of
testing ignition propensity of cigarettes in order to mandate the creation of a "Fire Safe"
cigarette.
• 1987: TSG releases report stating that further research needed on ignition propensity
standards for cigarettes, as well as on technical and rommerJal feasibility of "Fire Safe"
^i,+~rptfiQ.
• 1990: TSG is re-authorized to develop tests for ignition propensity as well as the technical
and commercial feasibility of manufacturing a "fire safe cigarette". The TSG's report is due
in 1993.
1993 will be a critical year for this issue. If the TSG establishes ignition propensity standards
for cigarettes and determines that "fire safe" cigarettes are technically and commercially
feasible, Congress may mandate product specifications. If the TSG does not recommend
guidelines in 1993, it is possible that the level of state activity on this issue will increase
significantly as anti-tobacco forces lobby for "fire-safe cigarette" regulations on a state by
state basis.
IVIRON"MENY:1L ISSUES
As much as 85% of the nation's 190 million tons of municipal solid waste created annually is
buried in landfills. Many of the 5,000 landfills in existence have either reached capacity, or
are deemed too expensive to operate as a result of more stringent EPA regulations. Public
concern over landfill safety may also force many remaining landfills to be closed prematurely.
During the plan period, it is estimated that as many as 50% of existing landfills will be closed.
The lack of available and affordable landfill space, coupled with pressure by
environmentalists to find new solutions to waste management, have culminated in the
introduction of legislation which would mandate recycling levels and provide revenues for the
creation of new public oversight agencies. Many of these proposals target specific industries,
either for continuing to rely on packaging that is not "environmentally friendly", or because
their products yield high tax revenues that could be used for waste management programs.
The tobacco industry is vulnerable in both areas.
History
N
1:711
• 1989: EPA releases "The Solid Waste Dilemma: An Agenda for Action "which identifies the
composition of the solid waste stream and establishes a recommended solid waste i~
management hierarchy: source reduction, recycling, waste combustion, landfiiling. ~
• 1990: Over 800 state and local solid waste bills are introduced. Highlights:
Conference of North East Governors (CONEG) issues model legislation phasing out the
use of heavy metals (lead, mercury, zinc cadmium, hexavalent chromium)in inks, dyes and
stabilizers used in packaging. This legislation is subsequently adopted by 8 states.
Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) introduces legislation mandating 30% recycled
content by 1993. Bills and initiatives are introduced in FL, HI, MA, NY, and OR and VT.
The Oregon initiative is defeated, the Massachusetts initiative is withdrawn from the ballot
by the state Supreme Court because of invalid signatures.
Advanced Disposal Fee legislation is adopted in Wisconsin and Florida (1¢/package tax
effective 10/92).
Maine bans aseptic packaging.
• 1991: Oregon adopts PIRG bill with 25% recycled content for plastic packaging by 1995.
• 1991: Massachusetts Legislature considers PIRG bill with 30% recycled content for
packaging larger than 15 cubic inches by 1996.
• 1991: At the federal level, the House and Senate consider re-authorization of the Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA),. Both legislative bodies are considering
a:~ :ndr-,,<;nts to Subtitle D, ihe section of the Act dealing with municipal solid waste, w,1ich
:0d re ;uirti naticn4l r4cyclind mandates.
During the plan period, environmental issues will continue to be a concern as
environmentalists gain momentum in their efforts to force product specifications on the
marketplace. Cigarette cartons and hardpacks currently made from virgin paper may be
forced to meet recycling mandates. Additionally, hardpacks are under scrutiny because they
are made from a variety of materials: SBS board, aluminum-paper laminate and plastic (PET)
which makes them difficult to collect by curbside "recycling" programs. Environmentalists are
also focusing on cigarette filters as a disposal problem.
Smoking as a Social Issue
The 1G91 Study of Smokers' and Non-Smokers' Attitudes marked the tirst time this study was
.;:nducted during a recession. Possibly as a result, the attitude survey's findings suggest
that the imoortance of smoi<ir.n issues has dpcreased.
Non-Smokers' Attitudes
The 1991 Study of Smokers' and Non Smokers' Attitudes indicates that a number of non-
smokers are best described in terms of a new attitude segment, economic pragmatists.
Despite mixed feelings about smoking, they are relatively likely to allow smoking in their
homes and cars; pleasant smelling and smokeless cigarettes would make them even more
tolerant. These non-smokers believe that cigarette companies should be allowed to operate
like other companies, and they recognize the importance of the tobacco industry's
contribution to offsetting the trade deficit.
A narrow battery of basic questions regarding smoking reveals that non-smokers' attitudes
towards smokers have remained essentially stable during the past year.
TOTAL NON-SMOKERS
Percent Agree Completely
More willing to ask
people not to smoke
Becoming less tolerant
of smokers
Should be more pressure
on smokers to quit
1991 1990 1988
19% 19% 17%
23% 24% 22%
18% 19% 17%
However, based on a broader battery of questions, non-smokers' opinions concerning
smoking and particularly public policy impacting smoking point to a greater acceptance of
cigarette companies and their consumers. For example, between 1990 and 1991, non-
smokers have become more accepting of cigarette advertising and more likely to believe that
smoking restrictions have gone too far. The timing of the emergence of these attitude trends
and the Identification of economic pragmatists, may indicate a relationship between these
shifts and the recession.
r~_ -----
PERCENTAGE OF NON-SMOKERS WNU FEEL THAT anlC;tiNG REST R(CTiCNS...
1988 13 1990 ® 1991
Have gone too
far
Are about right
; :::";;.n't yone far
enough
Percent of Non-Smokers Surveyed
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WHERE CIGARETTE ADVERTISING SHOULD BE ALLOWED
Non-Smokers
0 1988 01990 1991
Anywhere, including
radio and TV
As it is today
Nowhere at all
0%
, . , .....
'+KiSe~/.1G/+.~ Y'-aiti~s'Jfrr)
10% 20% 301/6 40% 50%
Percent of Non-Smokers Surveyed
60%
A new segment has arisen among smokers, thorough enjoyment smokers. They are more
specific about the benefits they derive from smoking. They also appreciate accommodation
at restaurants and hotels, and are likely to avoid establishments that do not accommodate
smokers.
TOTAL SMOKERS
Percent Agree Completely
1991
r
More comfortable when there
is a smoking section in a
restaurant
Nice to know ahead of time
whether a restaurant has a
smoking section
lf I know ahead of time that a
hotel or motel prohibits smoking
in their rooms, 1'll stay somewhere
else
Thorough
Enjoyment Balance
of
~~.M--Q?a
64% 46%
44% 32%
56% 38%
;
These trends among smokers, combined with relatively stable findings among non-smokers
concerning vocial pressures, suggest that mon;eY+tum for increased anti-smokirg sentiment
has siGwed.
COMPETITIVE STRUCTURE SUMMARY
Recent increases in domestic cigarette profitability and international growth opportunities
have caused manufacturers to refocus on tobacco as a source of current earnings and future
income growth. Additionally, price increases for premium brands have created an
opportunity for manufacturers to attract consumers with discount cigarettes. The lack of well
established trademarks in the discount segment allows all manufacturers to compete for
discount volume on a more equal basis than in the premium segment, where brand equity
provides PM-USA and Lorillard a substantial advantage. International opportunities exist in
both export and joint ventures with foreign manufacturers. The value of U.S. trademarks and
more advanced manufacturing techniques provide U.S. firms with a competitive advantage in
many overseas markets. This combination of industry dynamics has increased competition
among domestic participants.
During the plan period, the industry participants will have different objectives. RJR is
attempting to increase profitability to enhance its equity valuation. B&W is attempting to
r.-nde+1ne the ir `t;;:try ,:'`e in virder to take advantage of its success at marketing ;cvj marqin
nrodr,ctG. A : .:adc=n, ... :'~ rd ... :1 Li,-lett are -7;'ernpting to maintain incorne cro°~~tti
for asp
in ac'-!uisitior.s, divider,us and reduc,ing debt. Because these objectives are different,
competitors' strategies and tactics in p:irsuing opportunities are conflicting.
• R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. will attempt to stabilize its share overall, replacing lost
premium volume with discount units. To stabilize share, RJR will increase premium brand
promotions and introduce a stream of new attributes such as the "Wrap" on Winston and
Salem, Vantage hard/soft pack and Camel Wides. RJR will aggressively price at the low
end and increase its presence in the discount segment by competing with B&W, PM-
USA and Liggett for black and white units, enhance Magna/Sterling's presence in the
sub-generic segment, and maintain Doral's position as the discount segment's leading
brand. RJR will also increase its emphasis on retail activities to take advantage of the
critical mass only it and Philip Morris have.
• Brown & W"'Iam._:..:i Tob=.o Co. is anticipated to focus on statJi.izing Kool's volur, e
and share de%1ine, compete vigorously to maintain its leadership position in the black and
white category, anu attempt to build Viceroy and Raleigh Extra. B&W will also continue
to grow its export business which has helped to offset declines in its domestic business.
B&W sold 33.9 billion units in exports in 1991, up 26.5 billion since 1985, and currently
holds a 17.6% share of total U.S. cigarette exports.
• Lorillard Tobacco Co. will ''continue to invest in Newport during the plan period.
Newport's strength in urban areas and with young adult smokers will enhance Lorillard's
position and provide trade advantage for its other brands. However, Lorillard will be hard
pressed to maintain Newport's volume because of new competitive marketing initiatives
for Kool and Salem, increased menthol discount offerings, and decreased smoking
incidence among its core young Black adult smokers. In addition, Lorillard is expected to
explore incremental volume opportunities in the discount and export (Carolina Cigarette
Company) businesses.
• American Tobacco Co. will focus on building viable discount trademarks. American's
creation of a complete product line at :i7e sub-generic price tier (Mlontclair, Misty, and Bull
Durham) has given it a unique selling proposition to retailers and facilitates a coherent
discount category ~inarketing strategy. However, American's position in the sub-generic
segment will be challenged due to RJR's and B&W's attempt to achieve critical mass in
this segment and the minimum price differentiation between sub-generic and black and
white products.
.'i ..(..M1iuml-.i
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• Liggett will continue to focus on the black and white segment and will price competitively
to defend this source of volume. Recent repackaging and new line extensions for Lark
and Eve indicate that Liggett will refocus marketing for its premium brands. Also, Liggett
will pursue international opportunities like export and joint ventures with foreign
manufacturers. Liggett has announced a major restructuring of its field sales
organization; in the near future it will be transferring the sale of tobacco products to food
brokers in 66 markets nationwide.
The potential results of conflicting competitor goals are increased price competition for
discount brands, increased price differential between premium and discount brands and
increased difficufty in margin attainment from the discount segment, all of which may impact
PM-USA's performance.
In addition to the six domestic cigarette manufacturers, new competitive forces such as major
foreign conglomerates, anti-smoking/health groups, and increased availability of alternative
products are converging on the tobacco industry during this plan period.
• Nicotine releasing skin patches and chewing gum are now available by prescription to
smokers who want to quit. It is anticipated that nicotine patches may be available for
purchase without a prescription by late 1994. Potential annual sales of skin patches in
the United States will exceed $600 million this year and could reach $1 billion by 1995.
R&D is also pursuing innovative products. Our proprietary alternative smoking product,
Beta, will be marketed in direct response to such products as nicotine releasing skin
patches and chewing gum. Project Beta is scheduled to be test marketed in 1995;
however, if necessary, the project will be accelerated.
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COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT
In past years, cigarette manufacturers routinely pursued diversification strategies because of
perceived unfavorable long term prospects for the industry. Recent increases in domestic
cigarette profitability and international growth opportunities have caused manufacturers to
refocus on tobacco as a source of current earnings and future income growth. In addition,
price increases for premium brands have created 'an opportunity for manufacturers to attract
consumers with discount cigarettes. The lack of well established trademarks in this segment
allows all manufacturers to compete for discount volume on a more equal basis than in the
premium segment, where brand equity provides PM-USA and Lorillard a substantial
advantage. International opportunities exist in both export and joint ventures with foreign
manufacturers. The value of American Trademarks and more advanced manufacturing
techniques provide U.S. firms with a competitive advantage in many overseas markets.
Recent changes in Eastern Europe have further expanded these opportunities. This
combination of industry dynamics has increased competition among domestic participants.
Between 1986 and 1991, PM-USA was the only manufacturer to gain either volume or
market share. While PM-USA's volume grew at a compounded annual rate of 0.57%, the
rest of the industry declined at 4.68% annually. PM-USA's share grew 6.47 share points,
largely the result of discount brands. Still, among competitors only PM-USA's premium
brands posted share gains.
MARKET SHARE PERFORMANCE
(Share Point Change 1986-1991)
Total Premium Discount
PM-USA +6.47 +0.13 +6.34
RJR -4.53 -8.61 +4.08
B&W -0.57 -3.47 +2.90
Lorillard -0.82 -0.88 +0.06
American -0.15 -2.83 +2.68
Liggett
Source: MSA -0.41 -0.43 +0.02
Competitors' premium trademarks have suffered volume declines well in excess of those for
PM-USA. These severe declines are seen as irreversible for two reasons. First, these brands
attract virtually no incoming young adult smokers. Second, brand loyalty among premium
smokers makes attracting competitive smokers prohibitively expensive. As a result,
competitors have focused on developing discount brands to appeal to price conscious
smokers. With regard to the discount category, the interests of industry participants are
implicitly divided into two camps. PM-USA, RJR and Lorillard derive the majority of their
volume from premium trademarks. B&W, American and Liggett derive a higher percentage
of their total volume from discount brands, and because of their small premium shares,
pursuing discount units results in minimal cannibalization.
PREMIUM VOLUME DECLINES 1990-1991
PM-USA
RJR
B&W
Lorillard
American
Liggett
Industry Non-PM
Source: MSA
1990 vs. 1991
% Volume Changg
-5.8%
-14.6
-10.5
-6.2
-14.2
-8.3
-12.4
Difference
yersus PM-USA
-8.8% points
- 4.7
-0.4
-8.4
-2.5
-6.6
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PM-USA's future share gains will come from gaining its fair share of discount category
growth, while improving upon its record of superior premium brand performance versus
competitors.
1991 ACTUAL AND 1996 PROJECTED SHARES BY CATEGORY
and Discount Percent of Company Volume
1991
1996 Discount % of
Co. Volume
Premium Discount Premium Discount 1991 1996
PM-USA 35.97% 7.38% 37.74% 11.96% 17.0% 24.1%
RJR 20.73 7.10 13.66 10.32 25.5 43.0
B&W 5.83 5.29 3.29 7:10 47.6 68.4
Lorillard 7.20 0.06 5.55 0.52 0.8 8.6
American 4.35 2.68 3.14 3.81 38.1 54.8
Liggett 0.92 2.48 0.55 2.37 72.8 81.2
Source: PM-USA Market Research Dept.
In the past year the low margin black and white segment experienced rapid growth. Given
the increased importance of the segment, PM-USA and RJR contested the existing segment
leaders Liggett and B&W more vigorously for a share of this volume. This increased
competitiveness fueled further black and white growth, limiting volume and income
opportunities from other discount segments.
BLACK AND WHITE DEVELOPMENT 1990-1991
1991
h r Change
vs. YAG 1991% of
Categorv Change
vs. YA
PM-USA 1.92 +1.26 30% +12%
RJR 1.15 +0.55 18 + 1
B&W 2.00 +0.74 31 - 4
Liggett 1.34 +0.25 21 - 9
American, B&W and Liggett are faced with high premium volume decline rates and.
increased competitiveness within black and white and other discount segments. Given these
realities, they face the choice of either investing to build discount brand volume and to slow
decline rates for existing premium trademarks, or milking their existing brands to liquidate
their interest in the market. At present, these companies appear committed to remaining
viable market participants.
N
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R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co.
Parent Company Outlook
Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Company continues to pursue a strategy of reducing and
restructuring RJR Nabisco's debt while maximizing the company's equity valuation. Since the
April 1989 leveraged buyout, RJR Nabisco has reduced its long term debt from $30 billion to
$13.1 billion. In 1991 alone, debt was $3.8 billion below year earlier levels. In contrast to the
distress experienced by many highly leveraged companies, RJR is in excellent financial
condition. As evidence, its bonds were upgraded from "junk" to investment grade by both
Moody's and Standard and Poor's. By achieving investment grade status, RJR escaped
complicated loan covenants that had restricted its operating flexibility.
For 1991, corporate operating income was $2.934 billion, up 4% from $2.818 billion. Total
tobacco provided 79% or $2.3 billion. Domestic tobacco operating income was $1.86 billion
(-5% vs. YAG), and business unit contribution was $2.23 billion (-4% vs. YAG). Tobacco
International operating income was $462 million (+23% vs. YAG), and business unit
contribution rose to $500 million (+21% vs. YAG). Food provided the remaining $0.7 billion in
operating income (+20% vs. YAG), and business unit contribution of $920 million (+15% vs.
YAG).
• On April 18, 1991, RJR Nabisco Holdings completed the issuance of 115 million shares
of common stock at $11.25 per share. It was the first new offering of stock for the
company since the buyout. The public now owns approximately 25% of RJR. At
present, KKR owns 53% of the equity in RJR. At year-end 1991, total stockholder's
equity was $8.4 billion, up considerably from $1.5 billion of equity at the time of the
buyout.
• RJR Nabisco Holdings' market value for 1991 was $11.217 billion in comparison to Philip
Morris' market value of $68.77 billion.
• While KKR will continue to reduce its stake in RJR, it can not rapidly liquidate its position
due to the company's size. Consequently, KKR is managing RJR for long term value, as
evidenced by high levels of marketing support to slow domestic volume and share
declines and reports that RJR will expand its international presence.
• To lower its cost of capital, RJR Nabisco Holdings Corporation exchanged $1.7 billion of
common stock for 11.5% convertible preferred stock, and issued $2.1 billion of 8.32%
yielding PERCS (preferred equity redeemable cumulative stock). Combined, these
offerings will reduce loan-interest and dividend payments by more than $470 million in
the first year alone.
• The $3.8 billion financial restructuring reduced the company's debt to equity ratio to less
than 2-to-1, removing it from the highly leveraged transaction (HLT) category and
increasing availability of credit from financial institutions. On December 4, 1991, RJR
Nabisco Holding Company's lead banks completed the syndication of a new $9 billion
credit agreement, for possible future acquisitions in food and international tobacco.
• In February 1992, R.J. Reynolds Tobacco International Inc. (RJRI) announced that it will
build a $33 million cigarette production factory in Warsaw, Poland. Plant capacity will
reach 8 billion cigarettes annually.
• In March 1992, RJRI announced the new construction of a 135,000 sq. ft cigarette
manufacturing plant in the Izmir region of Turkey. $100 million has been allocated
towards the plant for a 10-year period. The plant will be operational in the second half of
1992 and will have the capacity to produce 10 billion cigarettes a year.
Organizational Changes
in 1991, James W. Johnston, the Chairman and Chief Executive of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco
Co., realigned its manufacturing operations, as indicated below:
Andrew J. Schindler , 47, was appointed EVP, Operations, a new position. All
manufacturing operations with the exception of R&D, have been consolidated under
Schindler. Mr. Schindler has been with RJR since 1974. His previous position was EVP,
Manufacturing and Engineering.
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- Robert DiMarco , SVP, Research and Development now reports to Mr. Johnston. Mr.
DiMarco will retire during the second-half of 1992.
Other personnel changes during 1991 and the first quarter 1992 included:
- Richard W, Kauffeld Jr. was appointed VP, Business Planning. Kauffeld was a principal
at consulting firm Booz, Allen & Hamilton, from which RJR recruited current EVP of
Marketing and Sales James Schroer in 1990.
- David Anderson, 41, joined RJR Tobacco in January '91, as EVP, Finance and
Administration. VP of Leaf Operations also reports to Anderson. His previous position
was SVP, Finance and Customer Service for the U.S. Grocery Division of Quaker Oats.
David Isbister resigned after his new assignment as SVP, Tobacco Leaf Buying and
Tobacco Packing.
Locke Newlin, SVP of Strategic Planning resigned in May, 1991.
Gerard R. Gunzenhauser, CFO, resigned on January 14. He was succeeded by Mr.
Anderson.
R. Sam Hendrix. was appointed VP, Trade Marketing. Mr. Hendrix will be responsible for
building closer alliances with the company's largest customers.
Among senior management, the following people still remain at RJR Tobacco since the
buyout:
• Yancy Ford Jr.
EVP, Sales
• David lauco
SVP, Marketing
• Andrew Schindler
EVP, Operations
• Wayne Juchatz
SVP, Secretary &
General Counsel
• Robert DiMarco
SVP, R&D
• Robert Gorden
SVP, Personnel
The new people added to RJR Tobacco senior management since the buyout:
• James Johnston (1) • Thomas Griscom
Chairman, CEO EVP, External Relations
• James Schroer • Michael Oglesby
EVP, Marketing and Sales EVP, Government Relations
• David Anderson
EVP, Finance and CFO
(1) Appointed May 1989. Formerly division executive
Citicorp Consumer Banking 1984-89. Previously
EVP, RJR Tobacco 1981-84 and President, CEO
Asian/Pacific RJR Tobacco (Hong Kong) 1979.
Elected to the RJR Nabisco Board of Directors on
M arch 3, 1992.
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• RJR Tobacco has cut employment from 9,650 full-time salaried workers in 1990 to 9,348
as of July 1, 1991. It is believed that an additional 200 full-time jobs were eliminated
during the second half 1991.
Market ShareNoiume
RJR is the second largest U.S. tobacco company with a 1991 market share of 27.8%, down
1.8 points versus year-ago. 1991 volume was 141.7 billion units, a decrease of 12.8 billion
units or 8.3%. RJR's premium brands declined 3.0 share points to 20.7% from 1990, due to
the continued steep declines of all the company's premium trademarks.
• RJR's 1991 share provided by premium brands was 20.7%, down from 23.7% in 1990.
• Premium brands contributed 74.5% of total company volume, down from 80% in 1990.
• RJR's 1991 premium volume decline of 14.6% is the highest in the industry.
RJR's 1991 discount brands share increased 1.2 points versus year-ago to 7.1%, with
volume increasing 17.1%, from 30.9 to 36.2 billion units. Growth resulted primarily from a 0.4
point gain for branded generic Doral, a 0.9 point gain for sub-generics Magna and Sterling,
and a 0.6 point gain for black and white.
• RJR's share of the discount category was 28.4%, and it captured 20% share of 1991
segment growth.
• Discount segment volume now accounts for 25.5% of RJR's total unit volume, up from
20% in 1990.
• Doral's 4.7 share makes it the industry's leading discount brand.
Brand
1991 Share Share Point Change
1990 vs. 1991 % Volume Change
1990 vs. 1991
TTL Premium 20.7 (3.0) (14.6)
Winston 7.5 (1.3) (16.5)
Salem 5.5 (0.7) (13.3)
Camel 4.0 (0.4) (11.3)
Vantage 2.0 (0.4) (18.7)
Now 0.9 (0.1) (10.7)
More 0.8 (0.1) (16.3)
TTL Discount 7.1 1.2 17.1
Doral 4.7 0.4 6.4
BL&WHT/PL 1.2 0.6 87.0
Sterling 0.5 0.4 229.2
Magna 0.5 0.1 9.8
Century
Source: MSA 0.3 (0.1) (32.8)
Marketing Strategy
During the plan period, RJR is anticipated to focus on stabilizing the share of its potentially
viable premium brands (Winston, Salem and Camel), slowing share erosion of its smaller
premium trademarks (Now, More and Vantage), and enhancing Doral's position as the
discount segment's leading brand. RJR will also increase its emphasis on in-store fixtures
and promotions, to take advantage of the critical mass only it and Philip Morris have.
• Continuity programs for Camel ("C-Notes") and Winston were added in 1991 to RJR's
promotion mix to increase repeat purchases and build brand loyalty at relatively
reasonable costs. Previously, RJR typically used on-pack incentives to stimulate trial and
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instantly redeemable coupons to hold existing smokers. Camel is estimated to have
spent $50 million for promotional giveaways in 1990.
• RJR reformulated and repackaged Winston, with a reported 100 product changes, as
part of an effort to reposition the brand as the industry's quality leader. The "Wrap" or
"Flavor Seal" packaging retains moisture and will extend Winston's shelf life by three
times. In November, Salem was given the same overwrap.
• In January 1992, new Doral non-filter 85's were nationally introduced. This new packing
is the first non-filter entry into the branded generic category.
• RJR introduced a new package for two packings in its Vantage line in the Northeast
markets only. The package can be opened two different ways. Consumers can use the
flip-top lid, or opt for the corner opening that is characteristic of the soft-pack package.
• The national introduction of Camel Wides was launched at retail effective March 1. It is
positioned as a "wide gauge" cigarette.
• RJR plans to launch a new cigarette in May '92 called Winston Select. It will deliver a
new blend of tobacco, intended to give a slightly smoother, milder flavor and will deliver
about 18 milligrams of tar and 1.4 milligrams of nicotine.
• RJR President James Johnston has stated that all discretionary expenditures which do
not directly build volume will come under review for possible cuts. Possibly as a result,
RJR will reportedly cut its 1992 media budget and abandon its typical long term
commitments for print and outdoor advertising. Sports marketing expenditures are also
expected to be cut.
• In May 1991, RJR repositioned branded generic Magna and price-off Sterling to the sub-
generic segment, a key price-point where it had not competed. The brands had not
shown much potential in their previous segments, however, the shifts provide RJR with
additional tools to compete at the low end of the discount category. In October, RJR
added 8 new packings of Sterling to broaden the brand's appeal and to reduce the
availability of retail space for competitors.
• For 6MM-March 1992, RJR captured 30% of the discount category growth versus year
ago. Their discount brand share gain of 1.5 points was due primarily to the repositioning
and new packings for Sterling and growth in the black and white/private labels. RJR's
Best Value captured 15.8% of the black and white/private label growth.
• RJR maintained a lower volume requirement under its 1991 permanent counter display
program (170 cpw vs. PM 200 cpw) for top payment and a more specific positioning
bonus (RJR at register vs. PM 3 ft. prime) which resulted in a sightiine advantage in many
outlets.
• RJR's new lighted overhead pack master is gaining in popularity. Some retailers are
receiving up to $650 for the installation. At present, PM does not pay retailers for
installation of PM OPM's.
Marketing Spending
It is estimated that RJR increased total marketing expenditures in 1991 by 10.6% to $1,874
million or $13.20 per thousand cigarettes. RJR's per unit spending is the industry's highest, a
result of high couponing levels required to slow the erosion of its premium brands and to
build volume for its discount brands.
• RJR's 1991 reported media spending decreased 15% to $158 million from a year earlier.
Spending on Camel declined 18% to $57.7 million from $70.6 million, making it the
industry's third most advertised brand with a 9.1 share of voice.
• Media spending for Winston increased $34.5 million, from $21.8 million to $56.3 million.
The increase was tied to a new campaign to reposition Winston as the industry's quality
leader, featuring its new "Wrap" packaging. Winston's increase was funded by a
reduction in advertising for Camel (-$12.8 million to $57.7 million), Salem (-$16.6 million
to $20.8 million) and Vantage (-$16.5 million to $1.1 million).
• RJR moved its Camel account from Young and Rubicam (Y&R) to Mezzina/Brown, an
agency comprised of the two Y&R executives who previously managed the account. The
move is expected to provide considerable cost savings for RJR through reduced
commissions.
• Media spending for discount brands was focused on Magna ($4.6 million) and Sterling
($7.4 million) which were repositioned during the year. Expenditures for Doral, RJR's third
largest and fastest growing brand, were minimal ($2.0 million).
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• Throughout 1991, RJR aggressively couponed most of its premium brands in
supermarkets. Within the premium segment, Winston (41% of supermarket carton
volume was sold on deal with an average carton coupon value of $1.84), Salem (49% at
$1.80) and Vantage (52% at $1.85) were among the industry's most heavily promoted
brands. Starting in the fourth quarter, new $3.00 coupons for Salem, Vantage, Now and
More were made widely available.
• Throughout 1991, RJR couponed competitively in the discount segment. Doral (79% at
$3.47) has consistently outspent Cambridge (80% at $3.32) and has increased the
availability of $4.00 coupons in the second half of the year to be more competitive with
B&W's expenditures for Viceroy.
• RJR has provided Magna (51% at $1.56) and Sterling (81% at $1.84) with category
leading levels of coupon support since their repositioning as sub-generics in May.
• RJR's sales force is organized into six regions and is comprised of approximately 2,500
full-time sales personnel and 700 part-time merchandisers. In a September marketing
blitz, RJR reportedly provided at least one part-time merchandiser to each of its field
sales representatives. In February 1992, it was reported that RJR has assigned two part-
time merchandisers to each sales representative to concentrate effort on promoting
Salem "Fresh Wrap" and couponing Doral.
R&D
RJR Tobacco's R&D Department has a staff of about 700, down from 800 before the buyout.
Additional reductions are expected in 1992. Despite these cuts, RJR's current staff remains
larger than PM-USA 's R&D. .
RJR's product development focus is in two areas: a Premier-type smoking article and flavor
and scent innovations.
• The Premier team is essentially intact, and the level of related patent activity remains
high.
• RJR continues to patent actively. In the twelve month period from July 1, 1990, to June
30, 1991, they issued 36 U.S. patents. These included 6 related to a premier type
article, 5 for on-line inspection devices, and 5 for non-burning devices.
• RJR has the industry's only in-house flavor facility which produces flavor-release
compounds. These have been used in test products for Horizon and Chelsea.
• RJR may adopt a long term strategy regarding the development of paper technology
programs, aimed at reducing ignition propensity (visible smoke from the lit end of a
cigarette) with minimum subjective cost. Products tested by RJR have relied on advanced
paper technology and reductions in tobacco content to achieve less visible smoke. A
number of recent patents describe a smokeable filler comprised of both tobacco and
other fillers.
Operations
RJR Tobacco continues to manage its domestic manufacturing costs as a means of
improving cash flow and overall competitive position.
• Since 1988, RJR has increased its output per labor hour by 29%, while reducing other
operating costs by more than $150 million.
• RJR Tobacco has reduced the number of its hourly factory workers from 6,700 in 1988 to
5,400 in 1991.
• Other cost cutting measures include replacement of flax paper with less expensive wood
pulp paper, increased use of off-shore and lower grade domestic leaf, and switch from a
Freon Expanded Tobacco (ET) process to PM-USA's DIET (Dry Ice Expanded Tobacco)
process.
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All domestic and export production is in Winston Salem, N.C. Tobaccoville (built 1986) and
Whitaker Park (re-equipped 1988) have a combined annual capacity of approximately 220
billion units, against total domestic and export requirements of 192 billion. RJR increased its
export volume 14 billion units to approximately 50 billion units, offsetting a 13.5 billion unit
domestic decline. Total excess capacity was still 28 billion units for the year.
• RJR uses 8000 cpm makers and 400-500 ppm packers, giving RJR the industry's fastest
average manufacturing speeds.
• Approximately 36% of the RJR Tobacco International's cigarette volume for 1991 was
manufactured in the U.S. for sale in foreign markets.
Competitive Advantage
KKR will continue to maintain a major role in decision making within RJR. Their key objective
is to increase profitability to enhance the company's equity valuation. In the future, RJR will
rely on several competitive strengths.
• Manufacturing Efficiency: The combination of high speed modular equipment and non-
union labor makes RJR the most flexible and efficient manufacturer.
• Cost Reductions: RJR has reduced overhead and manpower, while also reformulating its
products to achieve production cost advantages. Since the LBO, RJR is estimated to
have cut $500 million from its cost structure.
• Retail Fixtures: RJR continues to be the dominant retail fixture supplier which supports
relationships with retailers and enhances its control over retail space. This advantage is
particularly strong in supermarkets, which historically have been a critical channel for
discount brands.
• Discount Brand Leadership: Doral is the industry's leading discount brand. The
company's entry into sub-generics with the re-positioning of Magna and Sterling, its
increasing share of the black and white/private label growth through Best Value and the
more recent introduction of Monarch (a branded black and white), will collectively
strengthen RJR's long-term competitive position in every sub-segment of the discount
category.
• Camel Filter Momentum: Camel is the first brand to be successfully repositioned as a
brand for young adult smokers. In 1991, Camel attracted 8.0% of 18-24 year old
smokers, up from 3% in 1987. Among competitive premium brands, Camel appears to
be the only significant threat to Marlboro's smoker base. February 3, 1992 marked the
national introduction of Camel Wides filter and hard pack. It is about two millimeters
thicker than a standard cigarette with packaging similar in size to the traditional 25's.
• Direct Marketing: RJR's database of names is maintained by internal staff and is
reported to contain 30 million names or over one-half of the total U.S. smoker population.
As a result, RJR's direct marketing activity level (branded mailings/multiple coupons) was
2.5 times greater than PM-USA's level (5 months ending 12/91). RJR has started to
create a database of store clerk names for the future introduction of an RJR Trade Club
Program.
BROWN & WILLIAMSON TOBACCO CO.
Parent Company Outlook
BAT Industries completed the divestment of its retail department store and paper
manufacturing subsidiaries in 1990, narrowing its core businesses to tobacco and financial
services. The Financial Services operating unit performed poorly in 1990 and 1991 and BAT
is now more dependent on the profitability of its tobacco businesses than at any time in
recent history. In 1991, BAT's income from continuing operations was $2,240 million, down
2.2% from 1990. Tobacco generated approximately 85% of BAT's income in 1991.
Tobacco income from continuing operations in 1991 was up 14.2% to $1,892 million. BAT's
U.K. insurance company Eagle Star incurred a substantial operating loss in 1990 and was
again negative in 1991. Results for the financial services unit are expected to steadily
improve and account for 40% of corporate operating income by 1995.
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• BAT is the world's second largest cigarette manufacturer, with 1991 volume up 3% to
571 billion. Recent overall volume gains reflect significant growth in BAT's U.K. and U.S.
exports and a stabilization of previously deteriorating performance in Germany and Brazil.
BAT's total cigarette exports rose 24% in 1991.
• BAT derives a majority of its global cigarette volume from marginally profitable,
economically underdeveloped markets.
Brown & Williamson, BAT's American unit, accounts for only 10% of corporate volume but
generates 39% of total tobacco operating income. B&W's profitability is being threatened by
the continued erosion of its premium volume which has been only partially offset by discount
growth. B&W's profit margins remain low due to the high level of promotional expenditures
necessary to compete effectively in the discount segment. B&W has been successful at
building export volume, particularly to the Far East.
• B&W sold 33.9 billion units in exports in 1991, up 26.5 billion since 1985, and currently
holds a 17.6% share of total U.S. cigarette exports. The company's primary export
trademarks are Kent and Lucky Strike.
Over the plan period, BAT Industries is anticipated to pursue the following courses of action:
• Stabilize the performance of Eagle Star Insurance to increase the financial services units'
contribution to BAT's operating income.
• Continue to derive a majority of profits and cash flow from tobacco. The company is
investing in its tobacco business and will compete aggressively in all markets. Due to its
significant contribution to corporate income, BAT will invest in B&W to maintain or grow its
profitability.
• Increase worldwide tobacco volume and profits through U.S. and U.K. exports. BAT is
pursuing opportunities in Japan, the Middle East, Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union.
Early this year BAT completed its acquisition of the Pecs Tobacco Factory in Hungary. It
also signed a letter of intent to negotiate a cigarette-manufacturing joint venture with
three factories in the Ukraine. The three Ukraine factories currently produce 25 billion
cigarettes annually for the 80 billion cigarette Ukrainian market.
• The dividend increase of 8% for 1991 demonstrates BAT Board's continuing commitment
to dividend increases substantially in excess of the rate of inflation, even in a difficult
year.
Organizational Changes (February 1992)
- Robert A. Fitzmaurice , 51, was appointed SVP, Marketing and Sales, with responsibility
for all domestic marketing and sales. He previously served as SVP, marketing and field
sales support. Prior to joining B&W in 1988, Mr. Fitzmaurice served in various executive
management and marketing positions at PMI and PM-USA.
- Hoyt E. Higgens was appointed to VP, Domestic Sales. He replaces Larry Butler, who
retired after 32 years with B&W. Mr. Higgens has held various sales positions since
joining B&W in 1963, most recently that of Area Sales Director - Southwest.
- Warren G. Halset was appointed Director, Trade Development. Mr. Halset has held
various positions in sales since joining the company in 1979, most recently serving as
director of trade relations.
Market ShareNolume
Brown & Williamson is the third largest U.S. tobacco company with a 1991 market share of
11.1%, up 0.8 point versus year-ago. 1991 volume was 56.6 billion units , an increase of 2.9
billion units or 5.3%. B&W's premium brands declined 0.5 share point to 5.8% from 1990,
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due largely to the continued decline of the company's largest brand Kool. It accounts for
41.5% of total unit volume and 79% of premium volume.
• Kool has been hurt by a relatively older smoker base that is concentrated in highly
developed discount markets and its lack of share among young adult smokers. B&W is
implementing a marketing program including new advertising, new packaging and
increased couponing to stabilize Kool's volume and share decline.
B&W's discount brand's increased their share of industry volume by 1.3 share points to 5.3%
in 1991. Growth resulted from sub-generic Raleigh Extra's 0.7 share point gain to 1.3% and
GPC-black & white's 0.7 point gain to 2.0%. Due to intense competition in the branded
generic category from RJR's Doral, PM's Cambridge and many lower priced sub-generics,
Viceroy increased only 0.2 points to 1.4%.
• B&W's premium volume decline of 10.5% was the third highest in the industry.
• B&W 's share of the discount category was 21.3%, and it captured 24.3% share of 1991
segment growth.
• Discount segment volume now acdounts for 48% of B&W's total unit volume, more than
double its 1986 level of 20%.
Brand
1991 Share. Share Point Change
1990 vs. 1991 % Volume Change
1990 vs. 1991
TTL Premium 5.8 (0.5) (10.5)
Kool 4.6 (0.3) (8.7)
Capri 0.5 0.1 9.6
Raleigh/Belair 0.5 (0.2) (33.8)
TTL Discount 5.3 1.3 30.8
BL&WHT/PL 2.0 0.7 54.9
Raleigh Extra 1.3 0.7 117.8
Viceroy 1.4 0.2 13.2
Belair
Source: MSA 0.2 (0.1) (31.3)
Marketing Strategy
During the plan period, B&W is anticipated to focus on stabilizing Kool, compete vigorously to
maintain its leadership position of the black & white category, and to attempt to build
discount brands Viceroy and Raleigh Extra.
In September, retail activity began in Cleveland for several reformulated and repackaged
packings of Kool. In total, nine new packings of Kool are being tested. In October, a similar
test market was initiated in Richmond with an updated advertising campaign using a
penguin-"Willie", similar to Camel's "Smooth Character." "Willie" is based on a penguin used
in advertising for the brand from 1933 to 1960.
in September, B&W introduced Viceroy Box in KS and 100's packings. Viceroy, RJR's
Magna and American's Bull Durham are the three discount products available in a flip-top
box and appear to be positioned against Marlboro. To date, the new packings have attained
a 0.2% share with the majority of volume net to brand.
B&W introduced a sub-generic brand Savannah (Slim Lights 100 Box/Slim Lights 100 Box
Menthol) in Florida, Georgia and Alabama on April 28, 1992. Savannah represents an
obvious threat to Virginia Slims.
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Marketing Spending
B&W's 1991 estimated marketing spending increased 15% to $516 million or $9.75 per
thousand cigarettes. The increase was due primarily to higher advertising spending and
price promotion/coupon expenditures for both premium and discount brands. Among major
manufacturers, excluding Liggett, B&W has the lowest per unit marketing expense due to its
high percentage of black & white volume.
Media expenditures increased 53% to $61 million in 1991 with the majority of incremental
spending for Kool. In total, premium spending was up $21 million to $45 million and
discount spending declined $0.5 million to $16 million. However, B&W spent aggressively
behind Raleigh Extra in 1991; spending increased from $3.1 million to $11.4 million. Raleigh
Extra's increase was funded by the reduction in advertising for Belair (-$12 million to 0.1
million). In 1990, B&W substantially reduced media support behind Kool and other premium
brands, cutting spending from $60 million in 1989 to $23 million. These cuts were probably
made to boost B&W's profitability and offset poor results at BAT's financial services units.
While these units are performing better in 1991, B&W's current premium brand spending is
still $8 million less than 1989 spending of $53 million.
B&W's couponing support for premium brands decreased from 14.9% of volume sold on
coupon in 1990 to 7.6% in 1991, while discounts brands increased in 1991 from 42.4% to
53.2%. There has been increased price competition among menthol products this year,
mainly stemming from Salem's average percent of supermarket volume sold on deal
increasing from 36.4% in 1990 to 41.9% in 1991 and competition among discount menthol
products.
• Kool's average percent of supermarket volume sold on deal in 1991 was 12%, with an
average carton coupon value of $2.90.
• Capri's average percent of supermarket carton volume sold on deal in 1991 was 10%,
with an average carton coupon value of $1.96.
• In 1991, Viceroy was the supermarket coupon promotion leader of the branded generic
segment (63% at $3.60). At year end 1991, Viceroy offered $4.00+ carton coupon
values in 65% of supermarkets. Viceroy had traditionally offered higher average coupon
values and lower incidences than its competitors, but more recently it has matched
competitive coupon incidences as well.
• In the sub-generic segment, Raleigh Extra also maintained high coupon incidence and
values at 61% and $1.26, respectively. Starting in the fourth quarter 1991, new $2.50
carton coupons for Raleigh Extra were introduced.
• GPC is currently in the process of buying down and couponing all major accounts in
selected markets. Coupon values range from $1 to $2. GPC's goal is to be the lowest
priced cigarette in the store.
B&W's sales force is organized into six regions including 1,550 full-time sales people and 625
part-time merchandisers. In February 1992, B&W's sales force was redeployed and full-time
representatives are called territory managers. B&W also added more part-time
merchandisers at 16 hours per week.
R&D
BAT has demonstrated that it is committed to enhancing its competitive position through
R&D and to the upgrading of manufacturing facilities.
B&W benefits from R&D efforts in the U.S. and from European BAT units. B&W's U.S. staff
is estimated at 300 and is divided among blend, cigarette, filter and package R&D. The
company's patent activity is defensive, primarily used to block competitive exclusivity in
emerging technologies. In comparison to PM and RJR, B&W also devotes a
disproportionate amount of resources to process development.
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• From July, 1990 to June, 1991 BAT issued 39 patents, 7 of which pertained to premier
type articles. Other B&W patent activities indicate a focus on process development and
modification of QA inspection devices.
Operations
B&W recently upgraded manufacturing equipment at its major domestic facility in Macon,
GA. Equipment at the plant is between 5 and 15 years old and is comprised primarily of
7200 cpm makers and 400 ppm packers. B&W's manufacturing utilization is estimated to be
at or near capacity. An increase over the last five years of U.S. exports has offset declines in
B&W's domestic business.
• Current production capacity of 94.1 billion reportedly will be expanded to 110.4 billion by
1993. The company employs approximately 1,900 unionized hourly factory workers
(versus PM-USA's 10,000, Lorillard's 1,700, American's 1,350, Liggett's 640, and RJR's
non-unionized 5,400 hourly workers).
• In 1993, BAT Southhampton's facility will complete an upgrade that will make it the
world's fastest and most advanced cigarette factory. The factory will include sixteen
11,000-12,000 cpm makers, as well as other technological advances.
Competitive Advantage
B&W's competitive advantage is derived from being part of a large multi-national parent
whose primary business is tobacco. BAT senior management team is comprised exclusively
of executives with decades of global tobacco management experience. B&W is able to draw
from BAT's extensive knowledge base in marketing low margin products in very tough
economic environments. In addition, B&W can benefit from BAT's: R&D activity carried out in
Europe, global business relationships that enable them to source raw materials efficiently,
and manufacturing expertise. BAT also provides B&W's growing export business with
extensive logistical, marketing and government relations support.
LORILLARD TOBACCO CO.
Parent Company Outlook
Lorillard's parent, Loews, is essentially an investment holding company operated by the Tisch
family. The Company's core businesses and investment interests include tobacco,
insurance, hotels, oil and gas drilling rigs, watches and timing devices and 22.9% ownership
of CBS. Loews Corporation announced that net income from continuing business operations
declined 0.5% to $668 million in 1991. Cigarette net income rose only 9.1% for the full year,
the smallest increase since 1988. Lorillard made a strategic decision several years ago not
to enter the generic cigarette market because margins were too low. It never became
involved in overseas cigarette sales either, and both these sectors are rising more rapidly
than U.S. premium brands. Tobacco contributed $430 million, up 9.1% from $394 million in
1990, and accounted for 64% of Loews net income in 1991. This gain reflects cigarette unit
price increases and lower advertising and sales promotion costs. Security analysts estimate
free cash flow at $3 billion over the plan period.
• Lorillard should provide 60% or more of Loews' operating income in 1992.
• With fairly flat profits in 1991 at its insurance unit CNA, coupled with difficulties at CBS,
Loews has increasingly relied on Lorillard to generate income growth and cash flow for
investments and acquisitions.
• Loews' Chairman Laurence Tisch broke off talks for the possible purchase of R.H. Macy
& Co. He holds a 15.6% stake in Macy's and was expected to inject as much as $1
billion to buy out stockholders.
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Organizational Changes
- Dr. Alexander W. Spears has been appointed to Vice Chairman and Chief Operating
Officer reporting directly to Chairman and CEO, Andrew Tisch. Dr. Spears, who is 58
years old, was formerly EVP/SVP, Operations and Research (1975-91).
Dewey R. Tedder was promoted to SVP, Operations. Tedder, who is 54 years old,
previously was SVP, Leaf and Support Systems.
Martin Orlowskv succeeds Tom Mau (who resigned) as SVP, Marketing. Mr. Oriowsky
was recruited from specialty retailer DMK Holding in October 1990, where he was CEO.
• During the fourth quarter 1991, Lorillard eliminated its New York based Public Affairs
Department, including the dismissal of Sara Ridgeway, VP-Public Affairs. The function
will be handled by the Manager of Community and Media Relations, Joyce Jarett, who is
based in Greensboro, NC.
Market ShareNofume
Lorillard is the fourth largest U.S. cigarette company with 1991 market share of 7.26%, a
decline of 0.36 share point versus year-ago. 1991 volume was 37 billion units, a decline of
2.8 billion units or 7%. Premium volume declined 6.2% from 39.1 to 36.7 billion units.
Lorillard's share of the premium category was 9.6%, contributing 99.2% of total volume.
Newport's share was 4.7% and it contributed 64.6% of total company volume. Volume for
other major brands Kent and True declined 16.9% and 8.7%, respectively.
Brand
1991 Share Share Point Change
1990 vs. 1991 % Volume Change
1990 vs. 1991
TTL Premium 7.2 (0.3) (6.2)
Newport 4.7 0.1 (0.1)
Kent 1.6 (0.3) (16.9)
True 7
0
(0
1)
Discount .
0.1 .
(0.1) (54.5)
Heritage
Source: MSA <0.1 < (0.1) (51.1)
Marketing Strategy
In 1991, Lorillard continued to focus on its premium brands Newport, Kent and True.
Discount brands contributed only 0.8% of company volume. However, Lorillard is expected
to pursue the discount business more aggressively in 1992. Style, a low-tar •100 length sub-
generic, was introduced in six packings in the first quarter. In the premium segment, Lorillard
will continue to focus its resources on Newport, but is also expected to increase marketing
support for Kent and True to slow their declines.
Virtually all of Lorillard's sales are in the U.S. because its international trademarks were sold
to BAT in 1977. However, Lorillard recently created the Carolina Cigarette Company to
develop export opportunities.
Marketing Spending
Lorillard's 1991 estimated total marketing spending increased 13.8% to $444 million or
$11.73 per thousand cigarettes. Much of the increase went to higher promotional spending
for True and Kent to slow their volume declines.
• Lorillard's 1991 reported media spending dropped 20% to $86.9 million from $108.6
million a year earlier. Newport's spending declined to $58.6 million from $64.8 million,
but it became the industry's second most advertised brand with a share of voice at 9.2%.
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• Media spending for True dropped sharply from $18.3 million to $3.5 million, as support
was shifted to Kent's new "Portraits of Pleasure" campaign. Spending was increased
from $12.5 million to $24 million.
• Throughout 1991 versus year-ago, Lorillard's overall percent of supermarket premium
volume purchased with a coupon increased from 24% to 29%. While carton couponing
for Newport remained low (13% at $2.80), Lorillard maintained relatively high levels of on-
carton coupon support for Kent (33% at $2.12) and True (57% at $2.12).
• Lorillard is using the new Catalina coupon system, which delivers $5.00 Newport coupons
on cash register receipts via scanning technology when consumers purchase specific
competitive brands.
• Lorillard's sales force is organized into four regions and is comprised of approximately
1,305 full-time sales personnel and 105 part-time merchandisers.
R&D/Operations
Loews has not shown much commitment to enhancing its competitive position through R&D
or upgrading its manufacturing equipment. The average age of its packing equipment
technology is over 30 years. Production capacity at its Greensboro N.C. plant is 70.5 billion
units, relying primarily on (5000 cpm) MK9's and AMF 379's (175 ppm) for making and
packing. Lorillard employs approximately 1,700 hourly workers.
With 1991 sales of almost 37 billion units, Lorillard's excess capacity will top 30 billion units.
To enhance factory utilization, Lorillard is beginning to pursue discount and export volume.
Lorillard's research and development activities are limited, and focus primarily on products
with "fire safety" attributes and scent applications.
Competitive Advantage
The Newport Franchisei Newport's strength with young adult smokers will enhance Lorillard's
position and provide trade leverage for its other brands. However, Lorillard will be hard
pressed to maintain Newport's volume because of new competitive marketing initiatives for
Kool and Salem, increased menthol discount offerings, and decreased smoking incidence
among its core young Black adult smokers.
• Newport is the second most popular brand among smokers 18-24. Consumer research
in 1991 revealed that over 50% of all 18-24 menthol smokers chose Newport.
• Newport unseated another menthol brand, Kool, in 1991 to become the industry's fourth
largest brand. While Newport is popular in many regions, its core remains in the
Northeast where the discount segment is less developed. Newport's strength in urban
areas has also helped insulate it from the growth of discount brands.
AMERICAN TOBACCO CO.
Parent Company Outlook °
American Brands operates 5 core businesses: tobacco, distilled spirits, insurance, office
products and hardware. American's corporate strategy is to generate stable earnings growth
and to support dividend increases and strategic acquisitions for its core business units. For
1991, American Brands' corporate operating income was $1,631 million, up slightly from
$1,602 million in 1990. American Tobacco Co. ("ATCO") provided $541 million or 33% of
corporate income, up 6.7% from $507 million in 1990. U.K. cigarette subsidiary Gallaher
provided $540 million or 33% of income, with income from continuing operations down from
$594 million in 1990. Gallaher results were down, because of unfavorable currency
translations and weakening sales of premium brands, following an 18% excise tax increase in
the U.K. Additional problems at American's office products group, down from $87 million to
$38 million, have increased profit pressure on ATCO from its parent. As a result, ATCO has
not matched competitive promotional spending in the second half of 1991, weakening sales
52
for some of its brands. Just the same, ATCO achieved a milestone in 1991, with its first unit
volume increase in over 25 years.
During 1991, American Brands acted to strengthen its position in the distilled spirits industry.
It purchased 41.3% of the outstanding ordinary shares of U.K. based Invergordon and has
completed a $372.5 million purchase of seven trademarks from Seagrams. The completion
of the Invergordon acquisitions would make American the world's third largest distiller.
Effective January 1, 1993 all trading barriers within the European community will be
eliminated. It is possible that it will cause a shift in sales of tobacco products brands from
certain member states, such as the United Kingdom, to other member states in which prices
of those brands are lower. In 1991, Gallaher's market share in the U.K. cigarette market fell
from 45% to 43.5% and total unit sales decreased by 6.3% while unit sales by foreign and
domestic manufacturers decreased by 3%. It is believed that Gallaher will experience further
reductions of unit sales in 1992 and 1993.
Organizational Changes
In November, Donald S. Johnston was appointed President and Chief Operating Officer of
American Tobacco. His previous position had been Executive Vice President of Sales, and
his promotion underscores American's increased emphasis on sales activities. It is likely that
additional personnel changes will take place in American's marketing group, as 64 year old
SVP Bill Moore approaches retirement.
In February 1992, Jacobus M. Ockers was appointed to VP, Strategic Planning and New
Products in the Marketing Department at American Tobacco Company. Mr. Ockers joined
ATCO in 1987 as senior product manager. In 1989, he was promoted to group product
manager and in 1990 to director, strategic planning and new products.
Market ShareNolume
American is the fifth largest U.S. cigarette company with 1991 market share of 7%, up 0.22
share point versus year-ago. 1991 volume was 35.8 billion units, an increase of 0.3 billion
units or 0.8%. American's premium brands declined 0.6 share points to 4.4%, but discount
brands increased 0.8 points to 2.7%.
• American has a leading 29.9% share of the Sub-Generic segment and a 10.7% share of
the discount category.
• American derived 38.1 % of its total 1991 volume from discount products, an increase
from 27.3% in 1990.
• ATCO's premium volume decline of 14.2% was the second highest in the industry. 86%
of American's 1991 premium volume is generated from the rapidly declining non-filter,
charcoal filter, and the "lowest" segments which it dominates. American's share of
premium volume within these segments: Non-filter (42.3%), Charcoal (12.5%), Lowest
(30.8%).
Share Point Change % Volume Change
Brand 1991 Share 1990 vs. 1991 1990 vs 1991
ATCO Premium 4.4 (0.6) (14.2)
Pall Mall 1.7 (0.5) (25.7)
Carlton 1.4 (0.2) (16.0)
ATCO Discount 2.7 0.8 40.4
Montclair 1.3 0.6 82.3
Misty 0.5 0.4 417.0
Bull Durham* 0.2 N/A N/A
* launched in 1991
Source: MSA
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Marketing Strategy
Due to volume and share losses from its aging premium trademarks, American's product
strategy is focused on building viable discount trademarks and holding Carlton's volume.
The introductions of Montclair (1989), Misty (1990) and Bull Durham (1991) position
American as the industry's premier sub-generic manufacturer.
• Misty has gained share steadily with little promotional support. Despite its relatively
narrow female orientation, and only two packings, Misty has a 7.8% share of the sub-
generic category. Misty introduced two new full flavor packings in January 1992.
• Bull Durham has performed poorly at retail since its introduction, achieving only a 0.3%
share of consumer take away, despite high levels of promotion.
• American is testing a free standing menthol sub-generic, Riviera, in Detroit. Riviera's test
market results from Detroit indicate a 0.5 share with two Full Flavor packings (49%
distribution). Field sources report that American will introduce Riviera (4 packings)
nationally during the second quarter of 1992. A national menthol sub-generic would
complete American's product assortment at that price point.
• Montclair gained a leading share of sub-generic volume by achieving superior distribution
during the category's development.
Marketing Spending
American's 1991 estimated total marketing spending increased 14% to $451 million or
$12.32 per thousand cigarettes. American's per unit expense is the second highest in the
industry's after RJR, due to extensive support for its new brands and scale inefficiencies.
In 1991, American's advertising expenditures were $65.8 million, down from $68 million a
year ago. American's 1991 share of voice was 10.3%, an increase from 9.5% in 1990.
American was the industry's leading discount segment advertiser in 1991 with $43.5 million
or a 39.6% category share of voice since its discount brand strategies have been more
image based than those of its competitors.
• American spent $22.1 million or 33.6% of its total media budget in 1991 on Carlton with
~ discount brands receiving most of the balance.
• Since its March introduction, Bull Durham has received $15.6 million in media support.
Other major expenditures were split between Misty ($14.7 million) and Montclair ($12.1
mitlion).
~ Throughout 1991, American maintained low levels of couponing support for its major
premium brands Carlton and Pall Mall. Average supermarket carton coupon values for both
brands were below $1.85 and percentages of volume sold with coupon were under 7%.
~ American's 1991 percentage of sub-generic supermarket carton volume sold with coupon
averaged 42% for Montclair, 29% for Bull Durham, and 6% for Misty. Couponing levels were
under 20% for the first half of the year, but escalated sharply during the second half in
~. response to heavy promotion by competitive sub-generics. In 1991 American resisted
increasing carton coupon values beyond $1.00, despite competitive values as high as $2.50.
• American reportedly will increase the size of its permanent field sales force from 700 to
~ 1,200 people. The additional manpower is needed to service an estimated 32,000
permanent discount brand pack fixtures and to provide couponing support of same.
Approximately one-third of American's permanent pack displays were placed in Region 2,
~ where Misty display placements are aimed against Virginia Slims' strong hold. As a direct
result of the significant increase in the number of full time sales positions, ATC may
downsize the present number of part time sales positions (400). American is testing
hand-held computers in West Virginia with national implementation scheduled for ~
~ December 1992. ~
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R&D/Operations
American historically has focused on generating cash for acquisitions and dividend growth.
As a result, American maintains a limited R&D organization and has made limited plant or
process improvements. American operates 48 manufacturing modules with making capacity
of 74 billion units matched against volume requirements of 38 billion. The majority of plant
equipment is 15 years old. American employs approximately 1,350 hourly workers at its
Reidsville, N.C. location.
• American is building a 200,000 sq/ft annex to its manufacturing center to house its
Protos 9,000 cpm high speed makers. The move is necessary because vibrations from
these makers pose a hazard to the existing facility. Two new high speed makers will be
added to the seven currently in use.
• In 1991, ATCO's unit sales of cigarettes in the U.S. accounted for 96.8% of its total unit
sales. Products (i.e. American Filters) are also sold overseas, principally in Japan and
other Asian countries.
Competitive Advantage
American's creation of a complete product line at the sub-generic price tier has given it a
unique selling proposition to retailers and facilitates a coherent discount category marketing
strategy. Due to the rapid aging of its premium smokers and its reliance on niche product
segments, American can pursue discount opportunities without significant cannibalization.
BROOKE GROUP (Liggett)
Parent Company Outlook
in November 1990, Bennett S. LeBow merged his heavily indebted investment vehicle
Brooke Partners L.P. with Liggett holding company Brooke Group Ltd, of which he is
Chairman and 84% owner. LeBow restructured his combined holdings so that pre-tax
income could be used to pay the $45 million annual interest expense on interests in MAI
Basic Four (Information Systems) and Western Union (now New Valley). The core
businesses of Brooke Group Ltd. now consist of Liggett, Impel Marketing (sports trading
cards-a $1 billion industry), MAI and New Valley.
• Parent company, Brooke Group, will continue to use funds generated by tobacco to
service the debt of its highly leveraged subsidiaries MAI and New Valley and to invest in
Impel. Liggett's operating income of $92 million in 1991 offset $165 million in combined
income losses from other units. For 1991, the company reported a net operating loss of
$73 million. (This includes $100 million non-recurring charges associated with its
restructuring of MAI/Systems segment and the Impel division.) Going forward, Brooke
should benefit from $33 million in anticipated annual savings from the 1991 restructuring
of MAI.
• Brooke Group is actively pursuing opportunities outside the U.S. for its cigarette business.
In 1991 Brooke arranged a joint venture, Liggett-Ducat, to manufacture and sell
cigarettes in the Soviet Union. Seventy percent owned by Brooke, Liggett-Ducat will
construct a new plant near Moscow by late 1993, with an initial annual capacity of 22
billion cigarettes.
Organizational Changes
In 1991, Liggett made several personnel changes to strengthen its sales and marketing
functions. In each case, Liggett went outside its organization to hire executives from premier
packaged goods companies. This suggests that Liggett will attempt to revamp its current
marketing strategy by applying consumer and trade practices used in other product
categories.
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Spencer J. Volk was appointed President, CEO. Former No. 2 executive of Church and
Dwight Co., maker of Arm & Hammer products (July '89 - Oct. '90). From 1987 to 1988,
he was President and CEO of The Volk Group, a company formed to conduct leveraged
buyouts. In 1985 and 1986, served as President and CEO of the Tropicana Products
Co. Mr. Volk is 57 years old. He succeeds James C. Turner, 58, a 33-year Liggett
veteran who retired in October, 1991.
Jerry Reid was appointed SVP, Marketing. Mr. Reid joined Liggett from General Foods
USA, where he was credited with several of the coffee division's successful product
introductions. He was previously with Brown & Williamson's product development unit.
Tony Buno was appointed SVP, Sales. He was formerly with Pillsbury in a sales related
position.
floland J. Allen was appointed SVP, Human Resources. Formerly at General Foods
USA, Director of Human Resources. Mr. Allen began his career with GF in 1965.
Mark Stewart was appointed SVP, CFO. He replaced David M. Welsh who resigned. Mr.
Stewart was former EVP, Consumer Group at Simon & Schuster.
Robert W. Robinson, VP Marketing, resigned in August '91, with only seven months of
service. He is a former ad executive who worked on RJR Tobacco Company business.
Market ShareNolume
Liggett is the smallest and weakest of the six domestic cigarette manufacturers with 1991
market share of 3.4%, virtually unchanged from year-ago. 1991 volume was 17.3 billion
units, a decrease of 0.4 billion. Premium volume declined 8.3% from 5.1 to 4.7 billion units.
Discount volume remained flat at 12.6 billion units, however, still contributing 72.8% of total
volume. Liggett gained 1.1 billion units or 0.3 share points in the black & white discount
segment. This category generated 39.4% of 1991 volume. Liggett's largest brand, sub-
generic Pyramid, which had grown steadily since its introduction in 1989, fell 1.6 billion units
to 5.1 billion, a decline of 23.8% or 0.3 share points.
Brand
1991 Share Share Point Change
1990 vs. 1991 % Volume Change
1990 vs 1991
TTL Premium 0.9 (0.1) (8.3)
Eve 0.4 (0.0) (3.2)
Lark 0.1 0.0 (8.7)
L&M 0.2 (0.1) (18.5)
TTL Discount 2.5 0.1 0.6
BL&WHT/PL 1.3 0.3 20.0
Pyramid
Source: MSA 1.0 (0.3) (23.8)
Marketing Strategy
Due to the weakness of its premium trademarks, Liggett will continue to focus on the
discount segment of the market. Marketing and sales functions are being reorganized to
improve Liggett's execution at retail.
• Liggett will increasingly depend on black & white units and will price competitively to
defend this source of volume. Coupon promotion for Pyramid, that has lagged
competitive levels should increase to reverse the brand's recent slide.
• SVP of Marketing, Jerry Reid, has stated that Liggett will refocus marketing for premium
brands Lark and Chesterfield on regions where their core constituency of older smokers
reside. In April 1992, Liggett introduced two new Full Flavor Lark packings (85's/100's,
charcoal filter) and repackaged Lark Lights (85's/100's, charcoal filter). The charcoal
56
category holds a 0.9% market share. Liggett's Eve Slim Lights 100's was re-introduced
nationally with new packaging in February 1992. This line extension was discontinued in
June 1990 when it was replaced by Eve Slim Ultra Lights 100's.
Marketing Spending
Liggett's 1991 estimated total marketing spending increased 19% to $100 million or $5.73
per thousand cigarettes, the lowest figure in the industry. Given its minimal advertising and
couponing expenditures, the largest expense component was sales support.
• Media spending for Liggett increased 49.2% to $9.1 million for the full year 1991. The
spending was focused on its two largest brands Pyramid ($3.4 million) and Eve ($5.6
million).
• Throughout 1991, Liggett actively couponed Eve in supermarkets (40% at $2.24), and
was increasing coupon values for the brand at year end.
• Throughout 1991, Pyramid's average supermarket couponing support were low (20% at
$1.35). However, Liggett increased coupon availability sharply during the second half of
1991, reaching 54% in December in response to high competitive spending and
Pyramid's weakening share.
• In February 1992, Pyramid ran an FSI in Sunday newspapers nationwide (24.4 million
circulation), offering $2.00 off 2 packs or carton (expires 6/30/92). The new Pyramid ad
slogan reads, "You may never put another Camel to your lips."
• In February 1992, Liggett announced its plan to replace part of their sales force (total
size: 400 direct sales people and 460 merchandisers) with 45 contract brokers (2,000
commissioned employees). Liggett's parent group expects to save approximately $11
million annually with a similar program it initiated last November in its Impel division. The
contract brokers will be used to call on chain accounts. The downsized sales force will
continue to call on independent accounts.
R&D/Operations
• Parent c
develop ompany Brooke G
ment activity or to roup lacks the res
upgrade antiqua ources to pursue high levels of r
ted packing equipment at its Du esearch and
rham plant.
Liggett has relatively modern Protos 7,200 cpm making equipment, but continues to rely
on aging AMF-379 175 ppm packers which have no box capability.
• Liggett has a 31 billion unit capacity and domestic shipments of below 18 billion. Liggett
lacks export volume which would enhance its factory utilization.
• On November 25, 1991, Liggett agreed to a three-year contract with members of the
Bakery, Confectionery and Tobacco Workers Union Local No. 176-T. Liggett employs
approximately 640 hourly and union employees. The contract included new provisions
for health care, profit sharing, retirement benefits and steps to increase productivity. An
industry co parison is shown below:
WAGES
1992 1993 1994
PM $2,000 US (BCT) $2,000 US (BCT) 3% GWI
$2,500 US (Craft) $500 US + $0.30/hr GWI 3% GWI
AMER $2,000 US $2,000 US 3% GWI
LOR $2,000 US $2,000 US 3% GWI
LIG $3,767.90 US (1) + 4% GWI 4% GWI 4% GWI
B&W 3°lo GWI N/A (2) N/A O
RJR N/A (3) N/A N/A
~
(1) Liggett paid a one-time lump sum of $2,500 (after taxes) in consideration for profit ~
sharing and benefit changes.
(2) B&W is scheduled for negotiations in 1993
.
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(3) RJR is non-union. 1992 increase is to be announced 5/21, effective 6/1. No
projections available at this time.
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SIGNIFICANT BENEFIT CHANGES
am
• Managed Care Networks established as primary health care provider effective 1/1/93.
• Capped Craft post-retirement life insurance at $25,000.
American
• Capped post-retirement life insurance at $10,000.
• Established loan program under Profit Sharing Plan.
1ll r
• Major medical deductible doubled to $200/$600.
• Employees to pay 25% of dependent premium (was 20%).
• Established loan program under Profit Sharing Plan.
Liggett
• Established 80/20 premium payment, previously company paid 100%.
• Established 80/20 health care payment plan.
• Instituted precertificaiton on hospital admissions.
• Instituted dental plan.
• Capped company contribution to Profit Sharing Plan at 6% of employee pay.
• Established loan program under Profit Sharing Plan and provided an additional company
matching of up to 3% of employee contribution.
B&W
• No known change; negotiations occur in 1993.
BsLH
• No known change.
Competitive Advantage
Liggett derives the industry's highest percentage of total company volume from the discount
segment. Consequently, it has virtually no stake in the current industry profile and can
pursue discount units with little cannibalization of its premium brands. In addition, as the
industry's smallest participant, it can pursue opportunities which provide it with substantial
marginal benefit but which do not trigger immediate competitive responses.
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NEW COMPETITION/ANTI-SMOKING FORCES
There are many new competitive forces converging on the U.S. tobacco industry: major
foreign conglomerates; anti-smoking/health groups; and increased availability of alternative
products.
• It is possible for a cash-rich foreign conglomerate such as Japan Tobacco Inc., and/or
Mitsubishi to acquire a major stake in RJR Tobacco or another U.S. cigarette
manufacturer. Both Japanese firms realize the profit potential stemming from the global
demand for American-blended cigarettes.
• Nicotine releasing skin patches and chewing gum are being made available by
prescription to smokers who want to quit. The new set of competitors who
manufacture/market one or both of these items include ALZA, Marion Merrell Dow,
Lederle, Elan, Warner Lambert, Pharmarcia, and Ciba-Geigy. Ciba-Geigy has publicly
stated that it will use approximately 1,000 of its U.S. sales people to promote the sale of
its product called Habitrol (12/91). Elan Corporation received approval from the U.S.
Food and Drug Administration on January 28, 1992, to start to market its nicotine skin
patch (ProStep) through American Cyanamid Co's Lederle Laboratories. The ProStep
patch, sold outside the United States under the name of Nicotrans, has been launched
for over the counter sales in Italy. It is anticipated that nicotine patches will be available
for purchase without a prescription in the U.S. by late 1994. Wall Street analysts predict
the patch market will exceed $600 million this year in the U.S. and could reach $1 billion
by 1995.
• Anti-smoking/health groups such as the World Health Organization, American Cancer
Society, and the American Lung Association are combining forces to achieve a smoke-
free society by the year 2000. Efforts are in two areas. First, to continue to raise the
consciousness of the alleged harmful effects of tobacco on health. Second, to expose
the public relations strategies of the tobacco industry.
The above issues are covered in more detail in the Corporate Affairs and Operations sections
of the plan.
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Business Objectives
Philip Morris USA's primary business objectives during the plan period are:
• Grow Income and Cash Flow
$ Billions
Actual Actual CAGR
1990 1991 11992 1993 1994 iM 1M 91-96
Operating
income
4.2
4.8
5.4
5.9
6.6
7.4
8.3
11.7%
After Tax
Cash Flow
2.6
2.6
2.8
3.4
4.0
4.5
5.1
14.3%
• Achieve Aggressive Share Targets
1991
1996
Chance
..'_i .. r .. _ . . . ...ar
. .1nr 7"a
. .. ~ '~'.'~~~0
>t<:!
-i 3t:~.• ._ ......-.., {` , .. .... ..... .. -.. .~ s:v.v . v.~
~ otal FM-USA Share of Discount Category -21 ;3.5 33.1 + 3.6
• Maintain Unit Volume
Units in Billions
Actual Actual CAG%
1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 91-96
Industry 521.8 509.2 495.3 478.5 466.5 , 454.8 443.5 (2.7%)
.5 220.7 2'),)-.0 220.4 2"0.2 =:?20.%1 220.4 0
ckground
PM-USA has been the leading cigarette manufacturer in the U.S. since 1983 and currently
markets four of the top ten brands. Marlboro is the leading brand, with over three times the
crare of its closest cemi:;ei;tor, and Benson & Hedges, Merit and Virginia Slims are numbers
8, 9 and 10, respectively. In 1991, PM-USA achieved a market share of 43.3%, accounted
for 44% of estimated industry revenues and 52% of estimated industry operating income.
PM-USA's operating margin of 41.2% was the highest in the industry due to a favorable
volume mix as weil as marketing and operating efficiencies.
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Performance in Key IndUstiy Segments
PM-USA has a leading share in several key industry segments, including Premium, Discount,
Full Flavor, Flavor Low Tar, and Non-Menthol. The Company, however, continues to lag in
the Menthol and Ultra Low Tar segments. During the plan period, PM-USA will improve its
performance in all industry segments through a combination of line extensions and
innovative marketing and sales efforts.
PM-USA'S SHARE OF INDUSTRY SEGMENTS
M 1991 ® 1996
Percent of Segment
tW T
so
I Total Premiun Dscount Full Flavor Ultra Non- Menthol
Flavor Low Low Menthol
Source: MSA and Market Research Estimates
Demographic Performance
PM-USA's demographic profile is the industry's strongest, with 55.7% of its smokers under
age u1) .
E3 Under 35 35-54 U 55+
P,'rtSA
RJR
B&W
fndUstry
Median
40.8
39.8
Age 37.2 32.8
Source: PM-USA ConsumerTracking
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LOR
32.7
FM
50.5
LIG
50.4
Over the past five years, PM-USA has successfully retained the majority of its smokers as
they aged. Since 1986, the Company has held or increased its share among all smokers
who were age 25 or over , but has lost share among adult smokers under 25.
PM-USA SMOKER RETENTION
1986-1991
o M
~
1986 Age 18-19 20-24 25-29
1991 Age 18-19 23-24 25-29 30-34
Source: PM-USA ConsumerTracking
1986 ® 1991
30-34
35-39
35-39 40-44
40-44 45-49
45-59
50-54
50-54
55-59
55-59
60-64
Since 1986, Marlboro has grown its share among adult smokers under 25 at the expense of
competitive and other PM-USA premium brands. During the plan period, Marlboro will hold
its share among this key demographic group through image reinforcing advertising and
promotion as well as continued support of Medium and the launch of Medium 100s. Benson
& Hedges and Virginia Slims will increase their penetration of this group through 85mm line
extensions and more relevant positionings.
j ° ?~JS~4Y . •;s.fLT S:40KEt`.~,.'; WiC E 25
PM-USA
Marlboro
j Source: PM-USA CorisumerTracking
Virgina
Slims
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~.s ~o n
&
Hedges
!,Ierit
Demographic Model
To predict the potential impact of past sociodemographic and market performance factors on
our brands' volumes during the plan period, we constructed a demographic model - built up
with data from the U.S. Census, Roper and Consumer Tracking sources. We applied four
basic factors to the model: sociodemographic effects (e.g., aging and quitting); entering adult
smokers; contribution to discount growth; new products (net of cannibalization) in order to
forecast 1996 volume. The demographic model predicts that Marlboro's volume in 1996 will
be 117.6 billion units. This predicted volume is 10.6 billion units below the 1996 volume in
our plan. Across all of our brands, the model predicts our total volume for 1996 will be 206.7
billion cigarettes, 13.7 billion below plan, all in the premium segment.
Plan Volume vs.
Model Volume
1996
am Model Difference
"F"a.r't,0ro 128.2 117.6 -10.6
39.2 36.1 -3.1
Discount 53.0 53•0 Q
Total 220.4 206.7 -13.7
Source: PM-USA Business Plannin Demo ra hic Model
The strategies to achieve our 1992-1996 business objectives take all major industry
dynamics into account and involve across-the-board changes in the way PM-USA competes
in the U.S. cigarette business.
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Long Term Goals and Strategy
Beginning with the 1991-1995 Five Year Plan, PM-USA established three long term goals:
• Reverse the practice of offsetting volume/share declines with accelerated premium
pricing.
• Maximize PM-USA's competitive advantage.
• Improve the profitability of the low end of the market.
In 1991, to achieve these goals PM-USA began the implementation of a four-point strategy
to extend the equity of its premium trademarks, capture its fair share of the discount
category's growth, develop economies of scale and restructure profitability.
Extend the Equity of Premium Trademarks
PM-USA's primary advantage versus its competitors is the equity of its premium trademarks.
Our strategy is to add consumer value to our premium brands to reinforce and extend their
equity. This will insulate our smokers from the allure of price discounts as well as revitalize
our brands' appeal to competitive smokers. As we execute against this strategy, we will
ensure that each brand's positioning is unique and relevant in today's environment; we will
run advertising that reinforces positioning and is truly superior; we will competitively promote
our brands with incentives, events and price-offs that extend the imagery conveyed by the
advertising; and finally we will launch newsworthy new products with attributes that deliver
consumer benefits and broaden the appeal of our franchises.
Marlboro will enhance its perceived value through continued heavy advertising, loyalty and
image building promotions, leadership merchandising, preemptive line extensions and
alternative packaging configurations. Marlboro will also deliver targeted price promotions to
competitive smokers. PM-USA's other premium brands will develop positionings with greater
relevance to today's premium smokers and launch line extensions into untapped segments
to broaden their appeal and attack competitive pockets of profitability. Product and
packaging attributes which add value to the consumer will be developed and tested on our
premium brands. Under this value umbrella, the development of extensions of premium
trademarks into the discount category will be explored.
PM-USA's premium performance is forecasted to outpace the industry's, with our volume
declining an average of 1.8% annually compared to 10.2% for the rest of the industry.
Marlboro's volume is forecasted to decline only 0.5% annually due to its demographic
strength, appeal among entering young adult smokers and three line extensions. On
average, PM-USA's other premium brands are forecasted to decline at rates lower than
competitive premium brands on the strength of their line extensions which will offer product
attributes that deliver meaningful benefits and broaden their appeal.
As price competition in the cigarette industry continues to escalate, it is critically important to
reinforce the equity of premium brands so their ability to sustain a price differential is assured.
Over the plan period, several indicators of brand equity will be monitored for PM-USA
premium brands:
Smoker Share Unaided Awareness W
In/Out-Switching Rate Imagery/Popularity C
Own Brand/Alternate Brand Ratio Purchase by Competitive Smokers
~
If a brand appears to be losing equity, diagnostics will be evaluated and corrective actions C3
taken. Cj
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Oapture Fair Share of Discount Categoly Growth
PM-USA will capture its fair share (approximately 40%) of the category's new volume. To
meet its volume objectives in the discount category, PM-USA will differentiate Cambridge and
Bristol more clearly from competitive brands and add brand equity that extends beyond price.
In addition, PM-USA will employ targeted offensive price promotions on Cambridge and
Bristol where incremental volume can be gained without damaging its premium brands.
Finally, private labels will be given preference over black and whites (Basic) to foster
partnerships with key customers to strengthen PM-USA's family of trademarks.
Our strategy calls for integrating private labels with the Retail Masters program, a
comprehensive incentive package that marries the trade's goals to ours. Retail Masters
provides retailers with incentives for selling all Philip Morris products -- premium, discount and
black & white/private labels. By joining Retail Masters and partnering with the industry leader,
the trade gains great flexibility to develop its own tactics to maximize sales and profits across
their entire cigarette line. However, due to the way the private label incentives are paid, the
decisions on pricing will be made at headquarters, rather than at the store level where the
manager may be overly concerned with building volume. This fits with our plan to push our
private labels aggressively at retail, to replace the everyday low price positioning of our
competitors' branded discount products, but in a way that allows the trade the option to
maximize unit profitability by pricing just beneath sub-generics and branded generics.
During the plan period, PM-USA will outpace the industry in the discount category, with our
volume growing 7.2% annually compared to 3.6% for the rest of the industry. Cambridge
and Bristol are forecasted to increase 3.5% and 13.3% per year, respectively. FVB is
forecasted to increase 13.0% annually, with private labels comprising 38.6% of FVB volume
in 1996.
Develop Economies of Scale
Unlike other consumer products, cigarette companies' shares of industry profits have
traditionally been proportional to their market shares; PM-USA, as the industry leader, has
not fully benefited from its size. In the beer and snack foods industries, market leaders enjoy
profit shares 1.7 times greater than their market shares. During the plan period, PM-USA will
restructure the retail environment with Retail Masters, a merchandising program that links
payments to building PM-USA volume, captures prime selling locations for premium brands,
ensures a fair share of well positioned visible inventory, incents retailers to focus on selling
premium brands, and uses private labels to build partnerships with key customers.
PM-USA Operations is committed to lowering its total manufacturing cost per price segment
by utilizing global purchasing power, developing partnerships with suppliers, applying new
technology, and converting factories to highly flexible production areas which are responsive
to changing market conditions. In addition, new proprietary technologies will be used to
enhance premium brands' value to smokers by providing them with benefits unmatched by
competitors' products (e.g. lower sidestream smoke, less ashtray odor, higher taste/lower tar).
Restructure Profitabilitv
In 1990, each company in the industry derived over 75% of its profits from premium brands
even though this volume declined by as much as 20% for some manufacturers. These
profits were realized by price increases on products which frequently did not require
marketing support, since they competed in uncontested niches. The margins on these
premium products provided our competitors funds to support new discount brands targeted
at premium segments in which PM-USA enjoys a leadership position and derives much of its
income. PM strategies are designed to pressure competitors to seek profitability across the
entire product line.
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During 1991, PM-USA acted to impact its profitability in two ways. First, it improved the profit
potential of its discount products through differential price increases for discount and
premium brands. Second, it competed more vigorously for volume in niche premium
segments dominated by competitors via new line extensions. At the same time PM-USA
captured 40% of the growth of the discount segment. These efforts were designed to result
in competitors deriving a greater share of their profits by improving unit profitability of discount
products rather than from milking premium brands or growing discount volume.
Consequently, our competitors would have limited funds available to support new discount
initiatives.
During the plan period, PM-USA will deliver income results superior to its competitors due to
the volume performance differential between its premium brands and its competitors'
(volume for PM-USA's premium brands will outperform the competitors' by 9% annually). The
company will also, through its pricing and marketing actions, realize improved net margins
from its discount brands.
I Net Contribution (Per Thousand)
" 2 iM ~.' ~ i M
Marlboro $^2.59 $37.65 $41.64 $45.58 $50.55
O.P.B. 31.60 32.07 33.67 36.18 40.76
Branded Generics/
Players 25's
8.88
12.67
17.38
21.98
17.22
Bristol 9.17 13.09 16.53 22.02 24.99
Basic/AAV/Private Label 3,87 ~Q 9-M 13.13 16.65
Total $28.11 $31.15 $33.87 $37.51 $41.25
$55.09
45.08
21.28
30.64
j9.95
$45.72
During the plan period, PM-USA will make efforts to reduce real variable costs to improve
marc!lr;a and differentiate the 1.:~.riable ~l per thousand of premium vs dis~~wunt products.
i=rr; "!ry::is will La plac,-a:f or, mayac.ing fix..~i costs through beater headcount control. The
and effs ~*,'~I'aness of our esies efforts will also he irr?nro"°rf ~y ^or:rr,l~f'-:~ a
G6•s~grup;~ic/crganizGtion restructuring to support local market management, focus on
strategic customer development as well as improve in-store merchandising. All departments
will become more effective by streamlining their business processes, eliminating non-value
added efforts, adjusting organizational structure and improving information systems.
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66.
ING
During the 1980's, as industry volume started to decline, manufacturers maintained
profitability by increasing premium cigarette prices in excess of infiQ'.ion. Due to the reiative
price inelasticity of the cigarette category, this strategy of increasing premium prices to
compensate for volume losses proved to be highly profitable. In fact, between 1985-1990
every company except American Tobacco grew its operating income at over twice the rate of
the CPI.
MANUFACTURER LIST PRICE vs CP(
(PREMIUM 85 mm)
20
0
Percentage
15 T----
1970-75
Source: PM-USA Market Research
CAG%
fl List Price ® CPI
1975-80
1980-85
ESTIMATED COMPETITOR FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
1985-1990
($ MILLIONS)
®
RJR
PM-
USA
Source_Business Plarving Estimates
B&W
LOR
AM
1985-90
L!G
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Incrvasing premium prices also fueled the growth of the discount segment which put
ar siiional precsure on premium brands' volume, and led to charirg6:.~ in manuia.cturers'
oroauct mix. Essentially, a vicious cycle was created as greater profit r°r-=;:sure was being
t-, 'n,-.-wd o; ipremium products which required aggressive pricing !- nd generated the
aro;itera,tion of discount brands which put even more pressure on premi~tm profits. By 1990,
every company except Lorii,-urd was competing vigorously in the discount segment, but as
demonstrated in the chart below a11 were still dependent upon prumium brands for their
profits.
PREMIUM PRODUCTS
PERCENT OF VOLUME vs PERCENT OF P'RC}FiTS
(Not Contrib.)
1m
13 % Premium Volume G % Premium Profits
PM-USA RJR B&W
Source: MSA and Business Planning Estimates
Pricing Strategy
LOR
AM
UG
!.,-i.~~ ;L.'s pricing strateL'; will continue to b3 c4rJw ,Ij r n ;,ni~~rin,. nt r i2_:C m_
! i'] the profitability of the d'scount catcgu:-y and not the d;:;;;;;r;;;
rate. During the plan period PM-USA will take semi-annual price increases and will continue
to increase profitability of our discount brands while moderating our premium price increases.
We have structured PM-USA's premium price increases to average 8.6% annually. We
forecast that if our key competitors choose to match these increases, the additional revenues
obtained on their premium brands will offset the lost profits from their premium volume
declines, which we forecast will range from 6.5 to 9.6 percent. We assume that these
competitors will achieve their income growth through increased margins on discount brands.
In 1995, we expect a consolidation of discount price tiers such that the list price of all of our
branded discount products will be at the sub-generic level.
PM-USA PRICE INCREASES
Branded
Premium Oeneric Sub-Generic
1992 $5.50 $5.75 $7.00
1993 6.00 7.00 7.25
1994 6.00 8.00 8.50
1995 6.25 ' 8.00
1996 6.50 8.00
*The Plan assumes the branded generic and sub-generic categories wifi be consolidated In 1995.
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Pricina actions for FVB will be structured to ensure that the retail price of our black and
white/private lab=::t products is comparable to the lowest priced branded products in the
industry after coupon discounts.
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Income Growth
PM-USA's ability to deliver overall share growth through superior premium performance and
competitive discount performance has resulted in income growth rates higher than our peers
and the majority of consumer packaged goods companies. (Between 1986-1991, PM-USA
delivered about 60% of the industry's income growth.) Past plans have projected over 13%
income growth, but we now recognize that the pricing this performance requires undermines
the strength of our premium brands and could ultimately shorten their life cycles.
This plan forecasts compounded annual income growth of 11.7%. Our projected pricing and
brand volume could deliver 12.2% growth annually. However, in 1993 we expect our income
to grow only 10.1% since additional marketing funds will be required to defend our premium
brands against the heightened price competition which will result from the FET increase.
Even with these efforts, our total 1993 volume will decline 1.6 billion units. In 1995, we
expect income growth of 11.3% due to reduced discount income, resulting from higher
promotion levels as a result of the consolidation of discount price tiers.
Risks to the Plan
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Because this is an aggressive plan there are, of necessity, risks to its success. One such risk
is that marketing spending for Marlboro may not be sufficient to deliver the forecasted
volume and share. Our response would be to lower our income targets to allow us to
adequately fund our marketing efforts. In addition, if we cannot successfully defend
Marlboro against heightened price competition, it could be necessary to lower Marlboro's
price in order to stabilize its volume, resulting in lower income over the short-term.
The plan assumes a relatively conservative industry decline of 2.7% per year. In the event of
a greater decline, rather than suffer volume losses PM-USA's response would be to
accelerate our marketing and sales efforts in order to capture more market share.
The plan is also based on our achieving a 9% performance differential vs. the premium
brands of our key competitors. In 1991 we achieved an 8% differential, but in recent months
the differential has been in the range of the 7.4% differential we achieved over the past 5
years. Forecasts based on sociodemographic trends and the assumption that we hold our
share of entering smokers, indicate a 4.2% advantage for Philip Morris. Therefore, Philip
Morris must strengthen its premium trademarks relative to competitive premium brands, in
addition to lessening the incentive for competitors to shift marketing investments to discount
products, thereby encouraging consumers to switch from our brands.
Current industry trends indicate the discount category would reach 42% in the last year of the
plan. Our plan assumes that growth in the discount category will slow from its current rate of
growth to reach 36% of industry volume. Premium price increases will be moderated in order
to effectively decrease the price distinction between premium and discount brands.
Concurrently, discount prices will pass the $2.00 per pack threshold. Premium brand product
enhancements will provide added value for the customer, thereby justifying the price
distinction. Finally, our plan allocates up to 10% of the premium retail carton price as
promotional funding for our other premium brands to combat growth of the discount
segment. If these actions do not slow the rate of discount category growth, then the plan will
have to be reevaluated and compared to a plan which emphasizes maximizing share.
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MARKETING
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During the plan period, PM-USA is projected to increase its market share 6.4 share points
to 49.7%. In spite of a continuing industry decline of 2.7% compounded annual rate, PM-USA
will maintain its unit volume at 220.4 billion units. Marlboro will increase its share 3.1 share
points to 28.9%. Our other premium trademarks will decline 1.3 share points. To achieve
these results, promotion funds will be allocated to Marlboro and our other premium brands
to total 3.5% and 10% of retail sales, respectively.
The industry discount category is forecasted to grow 11.1 share points to 36.1 %, with Philip
Morris capturing 40% of that growth. As a result PM-USA's share of the discount category
is projected to be 33.1% in 1996 up from 29.5% in 1991.
Marlboro
Marlboro's primary challenge over the next five years will be to grow share in the face of
heightened consumer price consciousness and accelerated price competition. Marlboro's
strategy will be to leverage its unique distinction as h~ premium brand by adding value in
every aspect of the marketing mix.
To sustain growth during the plan, Marlboro must maintain its strength among young adult
smokers, retain more smokers as they age within the franchise, convert competitive smokers
and capitalize on alternate brand purchasing.
Againstthese objectives, Marlborowill enhance its perceivedvalue and justify its higherprice
through continued heavy advertising, loyalty and image building promotions, leadership
merchandising, preemptive line extensions and alternative packaging configurations. Marlboro
will also target competitive smokers' price consciousness with high impact price promotions
to generate incremental volume. Using direct mail and freestanding insert coupons (FSI's),
Marlboro will be able to deliver price savings through low visibility, yet image reinforcing
vehicles.
Key strategies for maximizing growth are:
• Maintain brand of choice status among young adult maleswith contemporary, breakthrough
advertising and value-added promotion.
• Target aggressive offensive price promotion against competitive prospects to leverage
consumer price sensitivity for incremental volume.
• Improve leadership visibility and presence in all trade classes, commensurate with
Marlboro's #1 brand position.
• Launch preemptive new products and packaging configurations, such as: Medium
100's, to extend the excitement of Medium KS; Ultra Lights/other line extensionn to
prepare for an aging franchise's increased desire for lowertar; half-cartonss to deliver a
more affordable packaging alternative to cartons; and 15 or 20 pack cartons for mega-
volume shoppers.
Premium Brands
The performance of PM-USA's other premium brands remains important to the company's
competitive advantage and overall profitability. These brands have lost their relevance to
71
today's smokers, and as theirconsumer base ages, they will become increasingly vulnerable
to the discount category. During the plan period, PM-USA's premium brands must not only
remain attractive to their current consumers but also attract young adult smokers and
competitive smokers. In order to accomplish these objectives in a heightened price environ-
ment, the following actions are planned:
• Benson & Hedges Kings, planned for 1992, will increase PM-USA's penetration of the
menthol category and introduce a length that is appealing to young adult smokers. Merit
Ultima, planned for 1992, will provide PM-USA with a viable entry into the Super low tar
category, enabling parent Meritpackingsto be restaged at lowertar levels laterinthe plan
period. Virginia Slims line extensions will be developed to increase the brand's
attractiveness to young adult smokers.
• Instead of broad national programs, all marketing programs will be targeted to take
advantage of the unique characteristics of geographic markets and retail trade classes
to maximize the brands' profitability and volume.
• Added value will be created through product/packaging innovations to keep the present
franchise and to attract inswitchers.
Discount Brands
The discount category is projected to continue to grow its share of the industry overthe plan
period but at a slower rate.. Discou nt category volume is forecasted to increase 4.7% annually
through 1996 and its share of the industry will increase 11.1 share points to 36.1 °lo.
PM-USA's discount brands will significantly outperform the overall category, achieving a
compounded annual growth rate of 7.1%. In addition, our discount brands must source this
volume disproportionately from competitors. Strategies to accomplish these volume objec-
tives are as follows:
• Continue to invest in Cambridge and Bristol as these trademarks provide an underlying
unit base within our discount portfolio.
• Change the current strategy of merely matching competitive price offers by employing
targeted offensive price promotions on Cambridge and Bristol in specific geographic and
trade classes where incremental volume can be realized from competitive discount
brands.
• Consider introducing- new discount brands in certain geographic markets where
considerations warrant (e.g. California) or in categories where the risk to our premium
brands is relatively low (e.g. Menthol targeted to the urban young adult smokers).
• Promote smaller discount brands such as Alpine on a more targeted basis to take
advantage of additional volume opportunities. '
• Utilize the Retail Masters program to aggressively pursue private labels. This will foster
partnership with key customers which will benefit the total PM-USA family of trademarks.
• Create a price structure that ensures long term profitability growth of the discount
categories (including black and white).
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During the plan period, PM-USA will introduce the following new products, line, extensions and
packaging configurations:
1992
Merit Ultima
Marlboro Medium100's
Marlboro 5-pack carton
B&H King Size line extension
1993
Marlboro Express
Parliament Menthol
Free standing discount menthol
1994
Marlboro Ultra Lights
1995
King Size B&H Deluxe Ultra Light line extension
1996
Marlboro Red line extension
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MARLBORO
Positioning
Where men smoke for flavor.
Geography
National marketing to support consistent overall brand imagery supplemented by localized marketing
to defend against competitive initiatives and capitalize on market opportunities.
• Continue, and where possible accelerate, share momentum where growth has been restored.
• Capitalize on significant growth potential opportunity markets where Marlboro share is growing
and
the Brand is underdeveloped.
• Reverse share erosion in geographies where Marlboro sales are softening.
Demographics
Core Audience - young adult male smokers; attract young adult smokers, primarily men, and retain
them as they age.
Key Audience - adult smokers 25-44 years of age; defend older smokers, prevent them from
switching, buying alternate brands and trading down to the discount category.
Trade Class
Marlboro's primary objective in all trade classes is to enhance our position as the leading brand in
all
cigarette outlets nationwide. To accomplish this, Marlboro must achieve "Big Brand" status in
important outlets through improved merchandising and promotional programs.
Convenience Outlets - Pack purchases
• Accelerate Marlboro's momentum among young adult pack buyers by capitalizing on Medium's
strength, improving merchandising presence and focusing loyalty/image building promotions on
pack sales.
Supermarket Outlets - Carton purchases
• Capitalize on trade class growth opportunities given Marlboro's under-representation in the
supermarket environment and anticipated demographic shifts. Also defend against discount and
competitive price off initiatives by implementing innovative, relevant end-aisle carton display
promotions as well as offensive merchandising and promotion programs to increase visibility/
presence and generate incremental volume.
In addition, Marlboro must explore special merchandising, promotion and packaging vehicles to
increase penetration in mega volume outlets, an area of under-representation for the brand.
Trademark Strengths
• Number one in the U.S. and number one in the world.
• Number one among men and women smokers.
• Marlboro Country Advertising.
• Full, rich flavor in a filtered cigarette.
• Bridged the flavor gap by introducing Marlboro Medium.
• Brand of choice among 60%+ of adult smokers under 25.
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Strategic Approach
A key to Marlboro's success over the next five years is the brand's ability to deal with continued
consumer price consciousness and accelerated competitive price competition. Marlboro will
capitalize on consumer price consciousness with price promotion aimed at competitive smokers,
thereby generating incremental volume for Marlboro. We will combine value-added promotion with
more impactful image building measures including media and in store presence to provide current
Marlboro smokers a greater sense of value. In addition, new product and packaging options, many
of which will be unique to Marlboro (e.g. Medium), will further insulate the brand against
competitive
price offers.
• Marlboro will accelerate its present share momentum by using a value-added approach which
permeates advertising, promotion, merchandising and new products.
• Price promotion will be employed as a volume generation tool aimed at competitive smokers.
• Image orientation will continue to be focused on young adult men.
• Volume orientation will continue to focus on retention of smokers within the 25 to 44 year old
segment.
• Keys to maximizing growth:
a) New Products: Medium 100's, Ultra Lights and other line extension options.
b) Improved visibility and presence in all trade classes.
c) Maintaining brand of choice status among young adult males with contemporized impactful
advertising and value added promotion.
d) Aggressive offensive promotion to leverage smoker price sensitivity and provide incremental
volume opportunities.
e) Maintaining "premium status" in the eyes of consumers.
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Marlboro
A crucial element in achieving share and volume objectives is the brand's ability to respond to
heightened price competition without jeopardizing Marlboro's positioning as the industry's premier
brand. The industry has currently absorbed the impact of crossing the $2.00 per pack threshold, with
over half of Marlboro's volume sold in that environment. The next important price threshold could be
$20.00 percarton which will become an issue beginning with the 1/1/93 Federal Excise Tax Increase.
In addition, pricing assumptions for this plan place the retail price gap between Marlboro and
subgenerics at over $1.34 per carton in 1996 versus about $5.00 in 1991.
Widespread price competition on a brand the size of Marlboro would deter rather than add value to
the brand. In addition, such discounting would be prohibitively expensive, preventing Marlboro from
contributing double digit income growth to PM-USA. Competitors such as Winston have shown that
high levels of price promotion erodes brand loyalty and undermines image building investments.
Rather, Marlboro must develop new means of dealing with price sensitivity in all significant trade
classes.
Issue:
Marlboro's future share growth Is dependent on Its abiiityto defend against competitive price
Initiatives without resorting to widespread price discounting which Is both cost prohibitive
and detrimental to long term image efforts. Marlboro's challenge is to develop a means of price
Insulation outside of direct price-off vehicles to protect the brand.
Strategy:
Marlboro must combine better merchandising and retail visibility with retail promotion to create a
value-added image for the brand, thereby giving it some insulation from cigarette °sticker shock."
However, Marlboro will continue to lose some smokers to discount brands and afternate buying as
retail cigarette prices continue to rise faster than consumers' ability to pay. To counter this
trend,
Marlboro will use price promotion as an offensive tool aimed at competitive smokers. In addition,
Marlboro will continue to offerproducts (Medium; other line extensions) and packaging configurations
(5 pack cartons) which would be either difficult or infeasible for competitors to copy, thereby
providing
,Mariboro with a unique competitive advantage.
Action Plan:
1992-1996
Retail Presence/Availability
• Launch 5-pack carton as "savings" alternate for
price sensitive smokers. (1992)
Promotion
• Respond to discount category growth primarily
by reinforcing Marlboro's image equity with
high perceived value added incentives in both
pack and carton outlets. (1992)
1992-1996
• Execute two strong bonus product promotions
in carton outlets and two in pack outlets behind
quarterly themes to reward Marlboro smokers
with product value. (1992)
• Develop additional price promotions as a con-
tingency plan to be used if the business war-
rants. (1992)
• Deliver high value Marlboro coupons to price
sensitive competitive smokers four times
throughout the year via direct mail. (1992)
• Field one $2.00 off carton national price promo-
tion in 1 Q'92 behind a sleeve offer to insure
continued share growth momentum. (1992)
• Deliver Marlboro Menthol price off coupons via
Catalina Marketing to generate incremental
volume at participating supermarkets. (1992)
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Marlboro
Historically, a key component of Marlboro's volume and share growth has been the brand's ability to
attract increasing shares of young adult smokers. Marlboro's share of young adult smokers has
increased from 33.2% to 58.6% over the last decade. This momentum has more than compensated
for a declining number of young adults over the same time period and has resulted in Marlboro
achieving "brand of choice" status.
However, in recent years Marlboro has experienced market share erosion among its core smoker
group. Marlboro's 58.6% share of young adults (age 18-24) at year-end 1990 represented an 0.6%
share point decline from 1989 when the brand peaked at 59.2% Competitive inroads have come
primarily from Camel, which has a 7.6% share among 18-24 year olds and a 12.3% share among
males in that age category. In addition, discount products have attained a 4.1% share.
Camel's growth has resulted from its repositioning as a contemporary fun loving flavor choice for
young adult male smokers. Camel's significant levels of price, product, and incentive promotion have
increased trial and alternate purchase for the brand, sourcing largely from Marlboro smokers.
Discount category growth is expected to continue among young adults as retail cigarette prices
increase given the group's lower income levels relative to older smokers and the heightened
visibility
given discount brands in convenience (pack) outlets..
Marlboro Medium represented a significant measure in reversing the brand's share erosion. Marlboro
Medium provides Marlboro smokers a cork tipped, lower tar option, thereby blunting the growing
appeal of Camel Lights. Marlboro's smoker share among 18-24 yearolds grewto 61.3%, with Medium
supplying 2.2 share points. Camel did not exhibit any growth during this same time period.
Issue:
Marlboro's challenge Is to continue Its recent share momentum among young adult smokers
by building on the recent success of Marlboro Medium. To achieve this, Marlboro must
continue to fend off competitive Initiatives by Camel, Winston, and discount products.
Strategy:
Marlboro will invest to maintain and grow its core young adult male smoker franchise nationwide. To
achieve this, the brand's image must be reinforced and contemporized through advertising and
promotion to remain relevant. National marketing will be complemented with heavy-up efforts in
opportunity markets, where Marlboro is growing and its share is underdeveloped, and with special
programs for problem markets. Line extensions, including new packaging options, will be investi-
gated to address the issue of affordability and value consciousness among this age group.
Action Plan:
Advertising
1992-1993 1992-1996
• Continue to use "Marlboro Country" • Deliver highest reach/frequency and
as core image. (1992) total advertising impressions
utilizing outdoor as primary reach/
• Field creative for maximum impact: frequency vehicle against core
Fewer, more intrusive subjects, run young adult smokers. (1992)
deeper in both print and outdoor.
(1992)
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• Run five special space/impact units
behind Marlboro Mainline, three
special space/impact units behind
Marlboro Racing and one other
special unit behind retail promotion
in print. (1992)
• Create and maintain sustaining
advertising behind Medium packing
group. (1992)
• Expand outdoor leadership program
to four additional key markets.
Focus on painted walls and other
new technology. (1992)
• Reduce scope of event marketing
programs to focus on Auto Racing.
Introduce image enhancing racing
advertising support utilizing
"Marlboro World Championship
Team" headline. (1992)
Retail Presence/Availability
• Strengthen Marlboro's visibility in
pack outlets by graduating to an
optimal look consisting of
permanent P.O.S. signage featuring
bold Red Roof graphics. In addition,
pack merchandising programs will
be modified to insure ht~, prime
position near the cash register.
(1992-1993)
• Provide continuous set-sells to
urban outlets and other stores
without permanent Marlboro
merchandising to improve presence/
visibility. Extend '91 urban
permanent display test to major
metro markets. (1992-1993)
• Insure strong presence is
maintained in critical non-cycled
accounts by offering permanent
pack display alternatives to vending
machines as they are eliminated in
select geographies. (1993-1996)
1992-1996
Promotion
• Field loyalty/image building
promotions geared to young adult
men. Emphasis will be on added
value incentives and bonus product
versus price-off. (1992)
• Use higher perceived value
incentives to reinforce Marlboro's
leadership position while rewarding
Marlboro smokers and generating
competitive trial. (1992)
• Build promotion elements to create
large, themed events. Major 1992
themes will be Racing and
Adventure Team. (1992)
• Leverage Marlboro Menthol's
growth among young adult male
smokers using targeted menthol
promotions as well as direct mail.
(1992)
• Raise top-of-mind awareness
among young adult males by
executing multi-dimensional blitz
marketing programs in °problem"
markets where Marlboro's share is
in decline and Camel remains a
threat. Four markets will be blitzed
with Mini-Grand Prix auto racing,
retail extensions and local
sponsorships. (1992)
• Expand the proprietary Adventure
Team program to dimensionalize
the Marlboro "experience° against
young adult males following the
successful '91 test.
• Co-promote on a monthly basis
events tied to national professional
sporting activities in 8 large sports
clubs in metro markets. (1992)
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1992-1996
New Products
• Launch Marlboro Medium 100's, a
low tar 100's entry for adult male
smokers, with cork tipping/red
package. (1992)
• Introduce five pack carton. Deliver
a value package for young adult
male smokers. (1992)
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• Test Marlboro Express, a shorter
cigarette for value sensitive
smokers. (1993)
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Marlboro
Marlboro's ability to retain and grow share among current smokers while limiting alternative
purchase
is a crucial element in achieving the brand's unit volume and share forecast. Marlboro has
historically
grown'by increasing its share of new smokers entering the marketplace, while maintaining and
growing share among current smokers as they age. Marlboro's performance in terms of smokershare
retention has been impressive; the Brand has grown smoker share among all age groups over the
last decade despite the emergence of price as a dynamic in some consumers' minds. However,
alternate brand purchasing by Marlboro smokers (based on the percent of smokers buying outside
the franchise within the last two weeks) has increased from 17% in 1987 to 20% in 1991 and may
represent as much as 6 billion lost units.
Based on current population and incidence trends, Marlboro will need to accelerate retention/growth
of smoker shares among its current smokers above historical levels while minimizing alternate
purchase behavior to attain forecasted volume levels in the five year plan.
The aging of Marlboro's prime smoker base has several strategic implications for the brand. For
example, older smokers tend to be more price sensitive, purchase more in supermarkets/mass
merchandisers, buy cartons and are more susceptible to switch to lower tar. Currently, 25-44 year
olds represent 58.3% of Marlboro's total estimated smokers with a large concentration in the 25-34
age bracket. Marlboro has an 38.7% share of smokers in the 25-34 age category and an 23.7% share
in the 35-44 age group. A key challenge for Marlboro is develop a merchandising, promotion and new
product strategy which keeps these smokers in the franchise.
In addition, Marlboro's lower share in this age group allows the brand the opportunity to attract
competitive smokers, either through outright conversion or alternate buying.
Issue:
Maintaining share among Marlboro's large base of smokers currently between 25 and 44 years
old Is critical to achieving Marlboro's volume forecast over the next five years. To achieve this,
Marlboro must successfully respond to changing demographics and buying patterns for
these smokers.
Strategy:
Marlboro must increase its retention of smokers as they age into and within the well developed and .
vulnerable 25-44 yearold segment. Marlboro will support smokers with Marlboro Country advertising
and reward brand loyalty with value-added promotions. Marlboro will use offensive promotions to
attain incremental volume by attracting competitive smokers. The brand will use defensive price
promotion only where necessary to reverse declining share trends. In addition, Marlboro will
investigate new packaging and product options to further broaden the brand's appeal among older
smokers.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
Promotion
1992-1993
• Extend all mainstream carton promotions to • Insert two blind value-added continuity
mega-volume outlets (800+CPW) where programs in select carton packings to
opportunities for incremental volume are reward price sensitive Marlboro smokers as
greatest. (1992) a defense against alternate buying. (1992)
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1992-1993
• Extend all retail carton promotions to military
outlets and maintain couponing at
competitive levels. (1992)
Direct Marketing
• Use offensive direct mail programs (quar-
terly, Medium 100's, Menthol) to target
competitive smokers with high value, image
building offers to generate volume and gain
conversion. (1992)
• Test defensive price promotion that protects
the brand without eroding equity. (1992-
1993)
1992-1996
New Products
• Launch Marlboro Medium 100's, a low tar
100's entry for adult male smokers, with cork
tipping/red package. (1992)
• Launch 5-pack carton as value alternative
for price sensitive smokers. (1992)
• Launch Marlboro Ultra Lights as a Lights line
extension. (1994)
• Test Marlboro Express as a shorter cigarette
for value sensitive smokers. (1993)
• Launch a Red line extension. (1996)
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Convenience outlets represent Marlboro's most important and best developed trade class. These
outlets represent approximately 50.4% of Marlboro's volume and Marlboro maintains a leadership
position in convenience stores with 28.9% share. It is in these outlets that young adult smokers, an
important Marlboro demographic group, purchase cigarettes. Marlboro returned to a share growth
trend in convenience stores at year end 1991, increasing share 0.5 points on a 6mm basis versus the
previous six month period of June 1991. To maintain its momentum, Marlboro must continue to fend
off competitive initiatives from brands such as Camel and Winston, which have promoted heavily in
convenience stores. In addition, the discount category continues to grow, increasing 13.9% share
points to 25.0% compared to 11.1% in 1988.
Issue:
Marlboro's competitive position in convenience stores has been challenged by both premium
and discount products. To maintain Marlboro's current momentum In the trade class,
Marlboro must set itseif apart from Increasing retail clutter and heightened price competition.
Strategy:
Marlboro will continue its retail promotional support behind pack outlets nationally, with a primary
emphasis on convenience outlets. Marlboro must improve its visibility and presence to achieve a"Big
Brand" status commensurate with its share. Promotional supportwiii be managed to provide Marlboro
sufficient volume opportunities without conditioning smokers to deals, reducing inherent value and
committing to increasing support levels to achieve volume targets. Marlboro's level of promoted
voiumefor1992isanticipatedtobeatorbelow1991e inaddition,Marlborowiilalsoencourageretailer
driven special pricing, including two and three pack specials.
Action Plan:
1992-1996
Retail Presence/Availability
• Evaluate and implement use of altemate
packaging and consumer payment vehicles
(i.e., half-carton, credit cards) to encourage
Marlboro versus discount brand/deal pur-
chases. (1992-1996)
• Capitalize on increasing use of retail driven
special multi-pack pricing with a permanent
5-pack carton SKU. (1992)
• Develop pack promotion distribution for non-
cycled outlets (less than 100 CPW) which
can be placed by distributors. (1992-1993)
• Expand promotion opportunities into non-
traditional outlets such as video stores and
home/auto centers. (1992-1993)
1992-1996
Promotion
• Execute 7 national pack promotions
consisting of 5 value added and 2 product
offers. (1992)
• Provide heavy base level of display quanti-
ties to achieve 80% penetration of 100+
CPW pack outlets versus 50% in '91.
Reserve display quantities will increase
promotion breadth and depth in key
opportunity markets. (1992)
• Execute 2 customized promotions in 5
convenience-gas and 2 convenience-food
national accounts, linking additional
merchandising programs where applicable
to strengthen presence/visibility in these key
chains. (1992)
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• Include a Hispanic version of all 7 national
pack promotions to provide ongoing support.
(1992)
• Execute 2 Asian promotions around key
holidays and 2 Menthol programs in 8 select
geographies to leverage growth. (1992)
• Create special programs to reverse
Marlboro share declines among pack outlets
in Texas/Oklahoma. (1992-1993)
• Utilize self-shippers/distributor assembly for
all retail pack promotions to minimize
salesforce labor in execution. (1992)
• Provide field with catalog of customized
promotions and P.O.S. materials to better
respond to local opportunities/threats.
(1992-1993)
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Marlboro
Supermarkets and mega-volume outlets represent a significant opportunity for Marlboro. The brand
has been historically under-represented in the supermarket environment, posting a 19.4% share
compared to Marlboro's 25.8% share overall. Supermarkets will be increasingly important to
Marlboro due to anticipated demographic trends. Marlboro's largest demographic group, 25-44 year
olds will continue to grow, pushing more of the brand's franchise into the price driven carton
universe.
Older competitive premium franchises are more susceptible to price discounting, decreased brand
loyalty, alternate purchase behavior, and switching to discount brands. Thus, while Marlboro must
defend its core business, the brand has an opportunity for incremental volume through offensive
promotions aimed primarily at competitors.
Issue:
Carton outlets, an area of historic under-representation for Marlboro should provide growth
opportunities. A key challenge for the brand Is to provide new, unique means of packaging,
product and promotion to differentiate the brand In an environment which will continue to be
price sensitive.
Strategy:
Leverage Marlboro's strong heritage with offensive promotion to attract new smokers in the carton
environment. Marlboro will investigate new means of packaging to address the price issue while still
allowing for multiple purchase options. Where possible, these new configurations will serve as an
entree into new merchandising and visibility vehicles for the brand. Defensive carton promotions
will
be used only where necessary to revitalize share trends. In addition, we must continue to capture a
significant share of smokers trading down from carton purchases by maintaining strong front-end
merchandising presence.
Action Plan:
1992-1996
Retail Presence/Avaitabitity
• Capitalize on the supermarket trend toward
non-self-service cigarette merchandising by
encouraging the placement of Marlboro
service centers to provide leadership
visibility. (1992-1996)
• Merchandise a 5-pack carton in
supermarkets to capitalize on the trend
toward increased front-end pack sales.
(1992)
• Introduce a 15/20 pack carton in high
volume carton outlets where multiple carton
purchase behavior is the norm. (1993)
1992-1996
Promotion
• Execute 5 national carton promotions with
large displays in 300+ CPW supermarket
universe with 2 value-added incentives, 2
product offers and 1 price promotion. (1992)
• Utilize arresting, high impact displays with
stopping power in place of traditional "pole
and shelf" displays for nationally scheduled
carton promotions in self-service mega-
volume accounts (800+ CPW). in non-self-
service mega-outlets, two value-added
promotions will be executed. (1992)
• Provide heavy base level display quantities
to achieve 50% penetration of 300+ CPW
self-service accounts, with heavy-up display
quantities in key opportunity markets. (1992)
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• Provide field management with a menu of
promotions/materials in addition to national
programs to leverage local market
opportunities. (1992-1993)
• Continue to strengthen impact and build
penetration of themed "super" carton
promotions. (1993-1996)
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PREMIUM BRANDS OVERVIEW
The premium brand segment of the industry continues to experience significant volume declines at
an annualized rate of 9.4%. Premium brand performance is a function of declining incidence and
consumption levels combined with a current discount category unit growth rate of 26.7%. During the
plan period the industry premium category volume is projected to decline at 5.8% annually.
It must be pointed out that the challenges facing ourpremium brands differ significantly from
Marlboro.
The variances, beyond franchise rates of decline, can best be explained by three major factors:
1) Unlike Marlboro, our other premium brands have been unable to capture entry level smokers and
are therefore faced with rapidly aging franchises.
2) These brands are each positioned against a limited industrysegment (e.g.100mm, low tar, female
smokers), whereas Marlboro can satisfy almost the entire range of consumer requirements from
a flavor, tar level and length perspective.
3) Marlboro's industry leadership position and corporate importance ensures significant retail
presence, while our other premium brands have limited opportunity/resources to establish a
substantial marketplace presence.
PM's premium brands' decline will be minimized by:
1) INTRODUCING LINE EXTENSIONS TO BROADEN THE APPEAL/PARTICIPATION OF
THESE BRANDS. Through an annualized investment strategy (spending for promotions and
new products) commencing in 1992, major line extensions will be introduced for our premium
brands. Neither Merit nor B&H has launched a significant new product for a decade, and
Parliament, a strong regional brand, has been limited to three packings for 22 years.
2) TARGETING PROMOTIONAL/ADVERTISING DOLLARS AGAINST KEY MARKETS.
Beginning in 1992, a geographic spending strategy will be the core of the individual brand plans.
Specifically, we will allocate disproportionate resources against key markets to slow our volume
declines and increase brand presence. In these designated markets, we will leverage our
consumer popularity to gain Sales and Trade support.
3) CAPITALIZING ON SHIFTING DEMOGRAPHIC TRENDS. By the year 2000, Blacks, Hispanics
and Asians will represent nearly 25% of the adult population. Increasing our share among ethnic
smokers will be paramount in reversing our current rate of decline. Targeted promotions,
improved marketplace presence and relevant advertising are all necessary to achieve these
goals.
4) PROVIDING ADDED VALUE TO OUR CURRENT FRANCHISES. We must add value to the
premium end of our franchises. We will utilize product/packaging innovations to encourage
'loyalty among our existing smoker base as well as to attract inswitchers. By adding value to our
brands, we will give smokers a reason to choose paying a premium price versus selecting a low
price alternative.
~ In addition to the above, it will be necessary'to utilize aggressive direct mail/continuity offers
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against our current smokers to encourage loyalty within the premium end of these franchises. ®
~ During 1992, we will implement a Brand name generation program against our own smokers to ~
significantly increase our current level of penetration (48%).
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BENSON & HEDGES
Positioning
• America's premium quality cigarette.
Geography
• Focus spending in key markets: B&H is the most geographically concentrated major brand,
(West, Southwest, Southeast).
Demographics
• White female skew, 40+
• Black and Hispanic, female skew, 30+
• B&H King Size: male skew, 25-34, mainline and ethnic
Trade Class
Convenience Outlets - Pack Purchases
• Increase in promotional support.
Supermarket Outlets - Carton Purchases
• Occasional couponing (FSI's, Direct Mail) in conjunction with "Signature Collection" premium
offers.
Urban - Pack
• Continue market penetration pack program.
Trademark Strengths
• The premium cigarette in 100mm length.
• Upscale packaging.
• Viable non-menthol and menthol offerings.
• Strong ethnic appeal.
Strategic Approach
• Market to diverse target groups.
• Build on premium image.
• Build ethnic franchise.
• Line extend to Kings smokers.
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BENSON & HEDGES
The Benson & Hedges franchise is experiencing disproportionate volume declines versus the
category as the result of younger adult smokerinswitching being siphoned off by Marlboro, Camel and
Newport coupled with increased outswitching due to sustained competitive activity by other premium
100's and discount brands.ln addition, Benson & Hedges 100mm only length proves a barrierto entry
for younger smokers; 100's are skewed toward older, female smokers and are perceived as such.
Issue:
The accelerated volume decline and the aging demographic profile risks Benson & Hedges'
long term viability. Benson & Hedges' future rests on gaining and building share among adult
smokers under 35, while at the same time providing incentive for current users to remain
within the franchise.
Strategies:
Through the introduction of a King size line extension, Benson & Hedges isto be positionedto be more
relevant to smokers under 35. The Kings' packaging, advertising and retail activity will be
contemporary and relevant to younger smokers but consistent with Benson & Hedges' positioning in
order to reinforce the trademark's strengths.
Direct marketing and media will deliver continuity programs designed to retain smokers within the
100's franchise.
Product/packaging based benefits will be sought to provide a sustainable point-of-difference for
premium brand smokers.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
1992-1996
• Introduce B&H King Size line extension
(non-menthol, menthol, Full Flavor and
Lights) directed at young adult male smok-
ers. (1992)
• Pack trial, which focuses on the purchasing
patterns of young adult smokers, will be
initiated via an extended reduced price offer.
• B&H Kings introduction will be
communicated through the "Black and Gold"
creative.
• Introduce "Long Smooth Premium Move"
100's advertising (print only) as a separate
campaign to Kings.
• Use multiple "Signature Collection" and
Direct Mail offerings to reinforce Benson &
Hedges 100's premium quality positioning
within current franchise. (1992)
• Focus 100's retail promotional activity in top
13 markets, 53% of total volume. (1992)
• Develop urban PPP in 9 key markets for
greater market presence to capitalize on
brand's demographic strength. (1992)
• Develop and test a product/packaging point-
of-difference on 100's. (1992-1993)
1994-1996
• Expand trademark acceptance among
growing ethnic groups via targeted
promotions, improved advertising, and
relevant line extensions.
• Launch King size Deluxe Ultra Light line
extension. (1995)
• Relaunch 100's business with product/
packaging point-of-difference. (TBD)
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ositioning
VIRGINIA SLIMS I
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• Thg cigarette for women.
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Geography
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• Defend share position from competitive premium/discount brands' attack and capitalize on
geographic opportunities for growth in key volume/share contribution markets.
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Demographics
• Primary Audience
• Secondary Audience
Trade Class
Drug and supermarkets
- Adult female smokers 35-44
- Adult female smokers 22-34
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• Maintain momentum among current carton buyers.
• Increase momentum among pack buyers.
Convenience/pack outlets
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• Maintain share position among current adult women smokers.
• Stem decline in share among young adult women.
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Trademark Strengths
• First slim cigarette made especially for women.
• Fashion-oriented and stylish image.
• Viable non-menthol and menthol offerings. I
Strategic Approach I
• Maintain position as the most le itimate brand for women.
• Position brand as contemporary and unique.
• Add value with packaging innovations.
• Volume goals will be reached by maintaining smoker share among adult female smokers 25+.
• Defend core franchise with aggressive product, price and continuity offers that counter
competitive price pressures yet add value and reinforce imagery.
• Improve positioning against young adult female smokers. I
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Virginia Slims
Virginia Slims is showing a volume decline for the second consecutive year and is expected to
continue in the immediate future. Significant volume is being lost to discount brands which are
growing rapidly, especially since the introduction of image based sub-generics. Historically, volume
growth was driven by line extensions which helped retain women smokers as they aged.
Unfortunately, these new entries, all of which were 100mm products, did not offer a compelling
reason
for young adult women smokers to join the franchise. In addition, the popularity of Marlboro and
recently Camel among young adult women, as well as, Newport among the ethnic audience has
°locked out" Virginia Slims from this key smoker group. In 1991, the average Virginia Slims smoker
was 36 years old. Finally, Virginia Slims is no longer the only slim brand designed exclusively for
women, and as a result, has lost its unique positioning and competitive product advantage.
Issue:
The Virginia Slims franchise is aging rapidly since it has not been able to attract young adult
female smokers. This is a serious threat to future voiume goals. Simultaneously, rapid growth
among female oriented, Image based, discount brands presents threats to short term volume
goals.
Strategy:
Contemporize and add value to the brand through advertising, promotion, packaging and product
innovation. All promotions including retail, direct and media will be uniquely themed and linked to
maximize big brand presence. Direct marketing will serve both defensive and offensive objectives.
Broaden brand appeal to young adult women through a new product and positioning.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
• Run "freshened" Old Time/New Time
creative. Develop unique image based
special units to generate visibility and
maximize impact. (1992)
• Develop new altemative advertising for
current franchise/product proposition. (1992)
• Contemporize Virginia Slims packaging.
(1992)
• Utilize retail and media delivered promotions
with "themed" imagery to create relevant big
brand presence. (1992)
• Use direct marketing to develop dialogue
with significant numbers of current Virginia
Slims smokers, which will add value and
maintain loyalty. Deliver image based
product, price and continuity offers to
approximately 500m current Virginia Slims
smokers. Include vulnerable competitive
smokers in mailings. (1992)
• Develop a unique non-100mm line extension
directed toward young adult female
smokers. (1992-1993)
1994-1996
• Evaluate potential price options including
couponing, additional product lines, price
reductions.
• Continue evolution of campaign directed
against women smokers.
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MERIT
Positioning
• The low tar cigarette that delivers taste out of proportion to tar.
Geography
• National - 1992 Ultima introduction.
• Regional - Aggressively defend Merit against discount brands on a geographic basis.
- Target consumer promotions to key strength and opportunity markets.
Demographics
• Primary Audience - 35-54 year old smokers
• Secondary Audience - 25-34 year old smokers
Trade Class
Supermarket Outlets-Carton purchases
• Defend Merit carton business against discount brands.
• Capitalize on opportunities for growth via Ultima.
Drug Outlets-Pack and Carton purchases
• Capitalize on opportunities for growth via Ultima.
Convenience Outlets
• Restore Merit momentum among young adult pack buyers.
Trademark Strengths
• First low tar cigarette to deliver on taste promise.
• Low tar expert.
Strategic Approach
• Introduce Merit Ultima (4 non-menthol packings), a super ultra low tar line extension to attract
competitive smokers and keep Merit downswitchers in the franchise.
• Increase the percentage of Merit's promoted volume to 15-20% annually.
• Develop targeted retail promotions that address specific areas of brand and competitive
strengths/weaknesses.
• Address the key critical issue of relevance in the marketplace, particularly among adult smokers
under 35, by exploring restage opportunities for the core franchise. Explore restage on an
integrated basis - involving product, packaging, advertising and promotion.
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Merit
Merit is currently the ninth largest brand in the cigarette industry. Although it is still an
important and
profitable brand, Merit is at a critical point in its product life cycle. Severe volume and share
losses
are being driven by the combined effects of explosive discount category growth and the lack of a
relevant positioning in today's marketplace.
Introduced in the mid-70s as a technological breakthrough in low tar smoking (the first low tar with
flavor), Merit now stands as one of a multitude of flavorful low tar brands available. its "rational
choice"
platform has been usurped by the proliferation of even more rational low tar/good flavor discount
alternatives. With virtually no following among entry level smokers, and a demographic profile
(educated, white collar, aging) that is vulnerable to discount brands/quitting/super ultra low tar
downswitching, Merit's volume is suffering. In 1991, Merit's volume declined 14% versus 1990.
Issue:
Merit's brand identity as a technological breakthrough product has diminlshed In recent years
due to the proliferation of more "rational" low tar/good flavor discount aiternatives.
Strategies:
In orderto defend the Merit trademark and create a stable platform for the future, Merit's position
as
the expert in low tar technology must be re-established. Over the next five years, the following
strategies will be implemented to address the critical issues forthe Brand and revitalize the
trademark:
• Provide a competitive alternative in the super ultra low tar segment via the Merit Ultima line
extension.
• Protect the core franchise in the short-term by encouraging current and occasional Merit smokers
to continue purchasing the Brand.
• Restage the Brand to regain a unique selling proposition/product superiority in the current
marketplace. Explore changes to the product, packaging, advertising and promotions.
Action Plan:
1992-1993 1992-1996
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I • introduce Merit Ultima, the first.cork tipped
"lowest", as the new standard in super ultra
low tar smoking. Suqport via extended trial
price-off's during the introduction, coupled
with intrusive, "newsy" advertising support
and targeted direct mail.
• Use integrated retail, media and direct mail
programs on a targeted basis to encourage
brand loyalty and purchase continuity.
• Utilize Ultima as the flagship packing
throughout the year in advertising and POS
communication.
3 • Post-introduction, target promotional support
to key geographies (35 markets/68%
volume) where Merit is well-developed or
showing opportunity for stabilization.
Segment consumer offer to the needs of
"price-oriented" versus "image-oriented"
markets.
• Use multiple direct mail offerings ("The
Lighter Side") to reinforce the loyalty of the
core Merit franchise and encourage
purchase continuity.
Increase promo
20%.
ted volume from 12% to I
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Develop and te
Merit (product a
existing light an
Restage lights/u
nationally. st a "new and improved"
nd packaging) to replace the
d ultra light packings.
ltra lights business
1994-1996
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Explore product
Ultima. improvements to Merit
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PARLIAMENT
Positioning
• The only cigarette with a recessed filter that provides a rewarding "getaway".
Geography
• Focus marketing efforts in Region 1.
Demographics
• Primary Audience - Adult male/female LA (Legal Age) - 34
• Secondary Audience - Adult female 35 - 44
Trade Class
Convenience Outlets - Pack Purchases
• Maintain momentum among young adult male and female smokers.
Carton Outlets
• Encourage purchase continuity among 100's smokers.
Trademark Strengths
• Famous recessed filter.
• The perfect recess ad campaign.
Strategic Approach
• Refocus marketing efforts in Region 1.
• Maintain relevancy to critical young adult smoker target.
• Diversify marketing between advertising and promotion.
• Support both King's and 100's packings.
• Increase brand's promotional activity.
• Line extend the franchise.
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Parliament I
Parliament is a strong regional brand, with the majority of its volume in the Northeast. The brand's
strength lies in its vitality among young adult smokers. This age group will continue to be the
focus
of marketing efforts. However, the older female 100's consumer will also be supported. Both
advertising and promotion will be used to speak to the consumer. Line extensions will be evaluated
as a venue for growing the brand's market share.
Issue:
Although the brand has remained a strong franchise In Region 1, its growth has been
constrained by the lack of product "news" and the need for Improved retail visibiiity. In
addition, the franchise's hig h percentage of older smokers makes it vulnerable to inroads from
discount brands.
Strategies:
Parliament will continue to be positioned as the aspirational, sophisticated brand choice with
particular emphasis on the young adult smoker. Our efforts will focus on three areas:
• Promotional activity will be increased to complement the brand's strong advertising and to
encourage brand trial and purchase continuity. Direct marketing and other promotional programs
will be developed to address the older female 100's consumer.
• Retail visibility will be heightened to give Parliament big brand presence in Region 1.
• Lineextensionswillbeusedtoincreasethebrand'sconsumerreach,andconsequentlygrowshare.
Action Plan:
1992-1996
• Increase brand's presence in Region 1.
• Increase brand's promoted rate to 7% in
1992.
• Balance marketing activity between
advertising and promotion.
• Support both King's and 100's packings.
1992-1996
• Evaluate potential of 100's Box and Ultra
Lights line extensions.
• Explore contiguous geographic expansion
(e.g. Baltimore/Washington).
• Utilize bounceback items on all promotions
to encourage purchase continuity and to
generate database names.
• Use Direct Marketing to reward the
Parliament 100's consumer.
• Continue to refine the "Perfect Recess"
campaign.
• Introduce Parliament Menthol in Region 1.
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The discount category's profitability improved in 1991 as a result of industry pricing actions. At
the
same time, the category's volume growth rate slowed from 28.7% in 1990 to 26.7% in 1991. The
continued compression of branded discount prices in 1992 and 1993 will cause the category to
experience sharp reductions in growth in the first two years of the plan period. Compounded annual
volume growth in the discount category during the planning period is projected at 4.7%.
For Philip Morris to achieve its volume and share objectives, PM-USA discount brands will need to
significantly outperform the category overall, achieving a compounded annual growth rate of 7.2%.
Most importantly, PM-USA discount brands must accomplish this level of growth by sourcing volume
from competitors. Specifically, PM-USA must capture 40% of the category's volume growth.
Our strategies to accomplish these objectives are as follows:
• A two brand focus (Cambridge and Bristol) designed to provide an underlying unit base within
our discount portfolio augmented by private labels and carefully targeted niche products
(Alpine) capable of delivering incremental volume.
• Creation of a pricing structure that continues to increase the profitability of PM discount
products.
• Tactical use of price reduction designed to escalate price subsidy levels in PM premium-low
risk environments, which will force competitors to defend discount products.
• Maintenance of a meet competition defensive posture in mainstream (premium-high risk)
environments.
• Aggressive pursuit of private label partnerships among key customers and a reduction in the
overall mass of discount brand display. We will, at the same time, defend against broad market
black & white (non private label) initiatives with price subsidy on branded products.
• The introduction of niche products and utilization of programs against competitive premium
products, e.g. menthol, non-filter and lowest tar, where PM risk of premium cannibalization is
low.
• When and where necessary, assume the risk of cannibalization by launching discount products
into segments, traditionally PM premium strongholds, to defend against competitive initiatives
e.g. slim circumference and 100mm.
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CAMBRIDGE
Positioning
• Sensibly priced high quality cigarette - smart choice.
Geography
National Scope
• With greatest emphasis and resource support in highly developed discount geographies.
Trade Class
Carton Outlets
• Increase promotion penetration in chains.
• Maximize volume in mega volume outlets.
Pack Outlets
• Generate trial and purchase continuity.
• Maintain visibility.
Strategic Approach
• Maintain price competitiveness.
• Improve retail presence.
• Heavy-up marketing efforts in key geographies and trade classes.
• Gain retail presence and drive volume with value added retail programs with modest media
support communicating a smart shopper positioning.
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BRISTOL
Positioning
• A quality product at the lowest branded price point in the industry.
Geography
• Achieve broad geographic distribution while focusing retail support and marketing resources in
a limited retail environment in which off-rack display and signage can be secured on a regular
basis.
Demographics
• Key Audience - 35+ years of age
- Lower income and education
- Predominantly white
- Nielsen C&D counties
Trade Class
Carton Outlets
• Utilize off-rack display and traditional packaged goods deals to maintain momentum.
Pack Outlets
• Secondary in importance to carton outlets, our objective is to ensure Bristol availability with
limited promotional support to provide trial.
Strategic Approach
• Generally utilize a defensive price subsidy approach in mainstream outlets.
• On a targeted basis in premium low risk environments, Bristol will offensively price subsidize
exceeding competing values by $1.00.
• Gradually expand distribution where the opportunity for sub-generic performance exists.
• Utilize standard package goods "deals" to obtain off-rack display as well as find a permanent
merchandising position for Bristol.
• Keys to maintain growth:
1) Provide Field Sales Force tools such as co-op advertising, P.O.S. and displays to
continuously work the Brand outside PM-USA's promotion schedule.
2) Aggressive promotion that adds value for the consumer and retailer.
3) Utilize "boxing glove" mnemonic in consumer communication, primarily at point of sale,
referencing price, value and quality.
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ALPINE
Positioning
• Legitimate refreshing menthol alternative for SatemJmenthol smokers at a lower price.
Geography
• Alpine will continue to develop regionally with regions 2, 3, 4 contributing over 72% of Alpine's
volume. Heavy-up support in highly developed menthol and Salem markets.
Demographics
• Core-Audience - Nielsen B&C counties, slight female skew, 35+ years.
• Key Audience - Premium, Salem/menthol smokers.
Trade Class
Carton Outlets
• Achieve trial and prominent merchandising and promotion to access menthol's traditionally
strong pack performance.
Pack Outlets
• Correct merchandising and distribution shortfalls to provide Alpine sufficient availability in
carton
outlets to support loyal buyers.
Strategic Approach
• Targeted utilization of promotion in key (menthol & Salem) geographies.
• Utilize Direct Marketing offensively against Salem smoker base.
• Target price reduction expenditures against competitive premium brand audience.
• Use of media delivered offers pulsed coincident to retail promotion in key geographies.
• Utilization of pack offers in Nielsen A county pack outlets.
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Discount Brands
Industry pricing actions have created a low price vacuum at retail. The low manufacturer list price
and
rebate structure creating substantially high levels of wholesale and retail trade profitability in
private
label and black & whites has resulted in explosive growth in this segment in 1991. The growth of FVB
at the expense of branded discount products within PM-USA's portfolio hinders our ability to meet
profitability objectives. Nonetheless, participation in these trade driven segments is required to
protect and to grow our share in the discount category.
Issue:
The absence of profitability In the low end of the discount segment requires that we gain
competitive advantage In merchandising not just gain volume.
Strategy:
A comprehensive sales and marketing strategy that integrates pricing, merchandising, and trade
rebates is planned. PM-USA needs to achieve a low end performance that optimizes our overall
position at retail. Our strategy necessitates:
• Construction of a PM-USA pricing structure to qualifying trade customers that incents private
labels as opposed to a black & white approach.
• Reduction of the minimum required annual performance for production of private labels.
• Creation of a PM-USA pricing structure and customer credit terms that allows for shipment
frequency options reducing pressure on manufacturing capacity requirements for private label
production.
• Retention of sufficient Basic volume in outlets that do not qualify for private label partnership
to
ensure that PM-USA meets its overall discount brand volume objective.
• The introduction of profitability in FVB.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
1992-1993
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I • Differentiate the pricing and rebate struc-
tures of Basic and private labels to incent
private label.
• Integrate private label partnership with
premium merchandising and discount
category presence at retail.
• Solicit private label partnerships among
retail chains with projected private label
volumes in excess of 100mm units per year. • Standardize private label graphics to allow
uniqueness within widely separated
geographies while simultaneously limiting
packaging alternatives at the point of
manufacture.
• Freeze Basic DME and rebate levels
thereby introducing profitability into the
franchise.
1994-1996
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I • Convert wholesale and retail customers
selling in excess of 100mm units of Basic
per year to PM private label partnerships.
• Construct a matrix of shipment and
production criteria linked to payment terms
to allow for greater private label
participation.
1 • Increase PM-USA's private label/black &
white profitability.
• Reduce PM-USA's reliance on non private
label/black & whites i.e., Basic, to under
three billion units enabling PM-USA to carry
discount volume in branded products and
private labels delivering merchandising
values to PM brands overall.
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Discount Brands
Segmentation and media support have been used with recent launches, e.g., Misty, Bull Durham and
Style to provide brand equities beyond price.
Issue:
PM-USA must create equities and values on behalf of Its branded discount products beyond
price alone to achieve differentiation as the category becomes more cluttered with new Image
base entries.
Strategy:
A three point strategy is planned:
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• While not changing the fundamental focus on price in Cambridge and Bristol's consumer
communications, both brands' campaigns will evolve to achieve two objectives; First, to
differentiate Cambridge and Bristol and second, to subtly introduce Brand equities beyond price.
• New entries by PM-USA into the discount segment will, in packaging, positioning and
communication, place higher emphasis on non-price related equities.
• Consumer communication on behalf of Alpine, Bristol Lowest, and Cambridge Lowest will be
single-mindedly focused on competitive targets. Taste claims and comparative advertising will
be increasingly used on behalf of these brands.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
1992-1993
• A new Cambridge campaign with a"smart
shopper" emphasis will be created and
launched.
• Bristol's "Price Fighter" campaign and -
boxing glove mnemonic will evolve in both
advertising and POS to include other
equities, e.g. flavor knockout, value cham-
pion, etc.
• Cambridge Lowest and Bristol Lowest will
continue to be featured in pulsed media
executions with explicit Now/Carlton
comparisons.
• Alpine's campaign in 1992 will be modified
to achieve a more intrusive presence in
retail executions and be more explicit in its
communication to Salem smokers.
• PM-USA will introduce a new, sub-generic
free standing menthol targeting younger
adult (under 30), urban smokers utilizing an
image based campaign with price communi-
cated as a secondary benefit.
• PM-USA will significantly shift resources
away from price subsidy to sustainable
campaigns communicated in both media
and point of sale executions sufficient to
allow a modest carton price disadvantage
against the lowest priced branded product
without suffering share erosion.
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Discount Brands
The growth of the black & white segment eroding PM-USA's discount brands' aggregate profitability
coupled with escalating levels of price subsidy will restrict our ability to simultaneously meet
profit
contribution objectives, maintain support on four national brands, and introduce new discount
products where warranted.
issue:
The unit contribution of Bristol, Cambridge and FVB require spending levels adequate to
ensure net retail price competitiveness and will inevitably drain discount brand resources
from other initiatives. However, these three franchises alone will not provide sufficient volume
for PM-USA to meet objectives during the planning period.
Strategies:
The discount brand portfolio of PM-USA will be restructured as follows:
• Resources supporting Bucks will be reduced to allow spending on otherdiscount brand initiatives
to be increased.
• Funding of Alpine initiatives during the plan period will be limited to 30 key Salem geographies
in offensive programs solely designed to source incremental volume.
• In key markets, PM-USA will launch a second free standing menthol into the discount category
against young adult urban smokers-rounding out our menthol alternatives to source incremental
volume.
• In key markets, PM-USA will launch a free standing 100mm full circumference and slim
circumference discount product to capture disenfranchised Benson & Hedges and Virginia Slims
smokers.
Action Plan
1992-1993
• Bucks spending and marketing programs
will be front loaded in 1992 to achieve high
levels of trial and maintenance of retail
distribution.
• PM-USA will launch a full circumference and
slims 100's at the sub-generic price point in
California in 1992 and gradually expand
where necessary in 1993.
1994-1996
• Bristol and Cambridge price subsidy levels
will be stabilized and volume will erode
slowly.
• Support against Monterey, Alpine and a new
free standing menthol will be increased as
we source incremental units.
• Alpine will continue to investment spend in
1992 becoming more explicit in its
communication against a Salem audience
with resource support in 1993 and beyond
being limited to offensive programs in 30
select geographies.
• Bristol and Cambridge promotional and
media support, will as required, be
converted into price subsidy to ensure
competitiveness at retail.
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industry pricing actions in 1991, coupled with greater than anticipated unit shortfalls among our
competitors, have resulted in extremely aggressive price reduction activity. Further, the
predictability
of PM-USA's meet competitive strategy has enabled competitors to undercut our discount brands' net
retail prices during periodic unit drives.
Issue:
Philip Morris'strategy of universally responding to competition has become predictable.and
resulted in our discount products being price disadvantaged on a regular basis.
Strategy:
While generally employing a defensive/meet competition strategy, PM-USA will:
• Leadintheescalationofpricesubsidylevelsinoutletsidentifiedaspremium/lowriskenvironments.
• Periodically lead in price reduction in mainstream outlets to eliminate predictability -timing
such
periods against excessive competitive retail inventories.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
With the exception of the circumstances listed
below, PM-USA will generally meet competitive
price subsidy levels:
• In mega-volume retail outlets (accounting
for 20% of the discount category's volume)
Cambridge and Bristol couponing inci-
dence will be increased to 90% with
values of $1.00 above prevailing competi-
tive levels.
1992-1993
• Price subsidy levels will be stabilized at
values sufficient to ensure a net price
differential between premium brands and
lowest price branded discount products of
no greater than 25% of brand net retail
prices.
• In carefully identified mainstream carton
outlets (Nielsen D county), Cambridge and
Bristol will increase couponing incidence
to 90% with values of $1.00 greater than
prevailing competitive levels.
• PM-USA will respond to excessive
competitive discount brand retail
inventories by exceeding the competitive
coupon value on such inventory by $1.00
on PM discount brands.
• PM-USA will pursue Bristol Lowest and
non filter aggressive price reduction in
developed competitive markets.
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Direct Marketing
Direct Marketing has become a key component of brand strategies for PM-USA. It has grown in its
importance as an integrated marketing element in promoting conversion and a proven tool in
delivering incremental volume. The Direct Marketing database contains a large, diverse smoker
population which is critical to the support of PM-USA brands' initiatives.
Issues:
• The marketing environment is likely to become more restrictive during the plan period,
inciuding additional restrictions on outdoor and event sponsorship. This necessitates
creating alternative avenues of reaching the consumer. Developing a smoker name data-
base will enable us to effectively reach a large number of smokers.
• The growth of the discount brand segment has put increasing pressure on our premium
brand smokers. Direct will be an essential tool for engendering loyalty among our current
franchises.
• Volume objectives have put increasing emphasis on short term Initiatives that will generate
incremental volume. Direct's ability to reach specific competitive targets makes It an
efficient and effective tool for building business.
• As the database becomes more critical to our marketing plans it becomes essential that we
protect It from iegislated restrictions. Operating procedures and policies will ensure the
Integrity of the database.
Strategy:
Continue to develop a database of 50% of the smoking population (25mm - 27mm adult smokers) by
gathering names through internal and external processes. Develop new unbranded name generation
and requaiification techniques that will generate names that will broaden the profile of the
database
and will fail within our targeted cost per smoker range. Use on-going Brand, Events, and Corporate
Affairs efforts which have requalification and/or name generation application.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
• Requalify for signature and Date-of-Birth.
• Expand name generation efforts in proven
traditional and non-traditional media vehicles.
• Increase presence at major events and use as a source for name generation.
• Improve response rate for direct mail
requalification and names generation
packages by continually testing new creative
offers.
• Continue relationship with co-op survey
supplier which identifies smokers through
surveys delivered through FSI's and direct
mail.
• Expand package/carton insert efforts to
increase penetration of PM smokers on
database.
1994-1996
• Develop internal sources of smoker
name identification and
requalification such that external
efforts are minimal.
• Maintain presence at all Events for
smoker name identification.
• Develop, test and roil-out Philip
Morris Companies corporate co-op
survey to maintain and enhance
each operating companies' data-
base.
• Use Database to impact volume
targets.
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Promotional Services
Promotional Services' Mission is to develop and deliver Brand consumer programs that can protect
existing franchises, build business and enhance brand imagery. Promotion programs are delivered
via retail, direct and/or media vehicles.
Issues:
• Increasing advertising clutter and the restrictive marketing environment has required
Increasing promotional support (both added value and price-off strategies) to secure
brand volume objectives.
• Competitive pressures have required a streamiine approach to developing and executing
promotions with a minimum response time. A "menu" of promotion concepts will give us
needed flexibility.
• Our ability to support our premium brands has been limited due to our focus on Marlboro
and discount brands. Thematic multi-brand promotion concepts will be a specific need In
the coming years.
• Volume objectives cannot be achieved through traditional retail promotions alone placing
more emphasis on a combination of media and direct efforts.
Strategy:
Build expertise in all areas of promotional services and, in conjunction with Trade Marketing,
exploit
opportunities for local and account specific programs. Continue to support Brand promotion
objectives with thematic promotions and enhance event sponsorship visibility through retail, media
or via direct to leverage event-related tie-in activities.
Action Plan:
1992-1996
• Build promotional expertise internally.
• identify key external creative resources.
• Build "menu" of creative ideas for field sales.
• Plan promotion programs 12 months ahead
of time.
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PM-USA maintains solid overall leadership in terms of tobacco media spending, with significant
dominance inthe magazine and outdoorcategories. Spending in 1991 forcurrent established brands
was $251 million and estimated to be $249 million for 1992 including current planned introductions.
During the rest of the plan period, industry and PM-USA media spending are expected to remain fiat
to slightly down, with print declining more significantly than outdoor (in the absence of
legislative
restrictions). However, it is possible that certain key competitors, most notably RJR, may
significantly
reduce advertising expenditures for all or part of the plan period to free marketing dollars for
other
activities. This will allow PM-USA to substantially improve its leadership advertising position,
even
with some shift of resources from media to promotional programs. The altemative strategy of
increasing advertising spending for maximum impact against the core audience will also be analyzed
on an individual brand basis.
Forthe retail environment, PM-USA will pursue an aggressive unified visibility strategy for Marlboro
to insure leadership positioning. In addition, premium and discount brand visibility programs will
be
implemented consistent with brand retail strategies throughout the plan period.
Issue:
Despite the Increasingly promotion-driven and regulated market environment, media and
POS advertising will provide a key way for PM-USA to not only differentiate Itself from the
competition but also provide a leadership position for its brands within the tobacco category.
In order to accomplish this, PM-USA must proactively provide maximum creativity, impact
and effiency in all media, and POS programs consistent with our leadership position.
Strategies:
Aggressively create new and refine existing media and POS opportunities for maximum impact and
efficiency. This will be facilitated by establishing an environment that fosters teamwork and the
development of creative alternatives to marketing problems. Within this environment, specific focus
will be placed on identifying key media and POS partners and proactively establishing the on-going
relationshipswhichwillchallengethemto maximize creative input in all submissions. In addition, take
leadership advantage of all opportunities by analyzing and accurately anticipating the actions of
competitors and the market.
Finally, refine print, out-of-home and POS planning, negotiation and evaluation systems to insure
effectively and efficiently reaching defined audiences in appropriate geographies consistent with
brand creative.
Action Plan: 1992-1993
• Develop specific strategies for core media
and POS suppliers to insure that PM-USA
receives maximum efficiency and creative
impact consistent with our leadership
position. (1992)
• Implement internal program to
generate impactful brand specific
media advertising/ promotionaV
merchandising opportunities for all
vehicles. (1992)
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1992-1993
• Refine PM-USA/KGF/Miller media
negotiating framework to insure
maximum on-going rate efficiencies
through a focused negotiating
strategy and selective use of media
vehicles. (1992)
• Complete comprehensive evaluation
of all PM-USA out-of-home inven-
tory for maximum impact, efficiency
and scheduling flexibility. (1992)
1992-1993
• Integrate in-store advertising
evaluation, planning and implemen-
tation irito the POS Development
process. (1992)
• Complete final refinement of
computerized media scheduling
system (COMPASS) to maximize
effective use of Media group
personnel. (1992)
• Complete development of and fully
integrate a comprehensive tracking
and analysis system of competitive
media and POS to allow for
proactive program response. (1992-
1993)
• Develop and implement specific out-
of-home and in-store space
utilization program to allow
Operating Companies access to
PM-USA inventories to protect
continued availabilities of key
vehicles. (1992-1993)
1993-1996
• Develop dialogue with Operating
Companies to maximize potential
for cost efficient multi-media
agreements. (1993-1996)
• Fully utilize all media
merchandising/promotional
opportunities on a PM Companies
basis. (1993-1996)
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SALES
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Since 1987, the PM-USA Sales Plan has focused on three major trends within the cigarette
marketplace: pack sales strength, discount category growth, and promotional activity.
Priorto 1991, Sales time was utilized primarily to increase carton and pack rack presence consistent
with different trade channel opportunities (discount racks in pack outlets, carton and pack racks in
carton outlets) and to implement increasing levels of promotion activity. Demand for rack/promotion
labor increased 44%from 1987 to 1990 and available man-days increased 41% through the addition
of part time resources.
It became apparent in 1990 that our sales focus on merchandising and promotion implementation was
not meaningfully impacting the business. Despite a 41% increase in manpower devoted to these
efforts, we had not gained a sustainable competitive advantage.
In 1991 we began to take the Sales Force role beyond in-store execution. We redefined Sales' role
to include geographic market management and strategic customer development, as well as
traditional in-store merchandising.
To fulfill this role, we established four major strategies designed to change the PM-USA Sales Force
from a merchandising force to a premier consumer package goods sales organization.
• Operate with a simple direction setting process and structure that localizes decision making.
• Create a people advantage.
• Combine people quality, relationship building, and category expertise to become the first tier
(preferred) supplier to customers.
• Streamline retail execution to create new brand, existing brand, and promotion advantages at the
point of consumer purchase.
During 1991, PM-USA Sales made substantial progress against its strategies. Specifically, we:
RESTRUCTURED
• Restructured the U.S. into 5 regions, 24 sections, and 76 markets to increase focus on
regional/local
opportunities (Exhibit I).
• Established the position of District Manager, reporting to the Section Director, as the key
market
management role.
• Restructured the Southwest region to increase focus on selling and people development. The
balance of the U.S. will be restructured in 1992 (Exhibits II, III).
• Restructured our NY based resources to establish a Trade Marketing group and an Operations
group to support Field Sales and customers (Exhibit IV).
• Established region based strategic planning and promotion planning systems to improve individual
market results.
• Positioned a national sales results tracking system called STEP UP & GROW (Exhibit V).
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UPGRADED THE ORCANIZATION
• Defined a job specific review process and reviewed all field and NY management personnel. As
a result of these reviews, a 49% change in management personnel occurred (Exhibit VI).
• Increased female/minority enrollment in key management grade groupings (Exhibit VII).
• Provided key management training in leadership/change management, supermarket and conve-
nience store operations, strategic planning, and organizational development.
• Established executive account assignments as well as account assignments at all management
levels (Exhibit VIII).
• Started a PM-USA Customer Advisory Council to improve communication on key customer issues
(Exhibit IX).
• Developed a category management story that outlines for retailers the right principles to
maximize
category profitability and growth. These principles are: maximize return on inventory investment,
meetthe demands forpacks, promote the category, and maximize discount brand profitability. This
can be achieved by focusing on prominently displaying the leading brands; managing the overall
number of displays; offering a private label/black & white product price sensitive shoppers (where
appropriate); managing overall inventory levels in proportion to sales; and using cigarette
promotions to build store traffic.
STREAMLINED OUR MERCHANDISING AND PROMOTION PROCESS
• Designed and tested a direct to retail promotion premium delivery and tracking system that
reduces
Sales Force labor.
• Expanded a distributor promotion assembly system.
• Successfully executed trade performance allowance promotions that increased carton display and
brand share.
• Developed an innovative merchandising program (Retail Masters) in 1992 that encompasses the
principles of category management and pays for PM-USA performance, captures prime real estate,
and focuses retailers on PM-USA brands.
Through these actions in 1991 and the first quarter 1992, Sales laid the foundation to achieve a
leadership position with customers. For the remainder of this year, we will implement what we have
developed and capitalize on what we have implemented.
The issues we face in 1992-1993 have evolved, but remain essentially unchanged from last year.
Consequently, our strategies have also evolved, but are directionally the same. We have recognized
the increased competitive environment with a strategic focus that seeks to fully utilize our
resource
base in the coming years to increase efficiency. Action plans have been refined or added to reflect
our accomplishments and changes in the market place.
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Issue:
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Increased promotion and pricing activity continue to strain our resource base and divert
resources to labor intensive In-store and administrative activities. We need to become more
efficient and to refocus in selling.
Strategy:
Increase Sales Rep/Unit Manager/Senior Account Manager productivity.
Action Plan:
1992 -1993 1994 -1996
• Expand "PM Express" direct store promotion • Continue to develop streamlined promotions.
delivery system.
• Automate the Sales Reps' administrative re-
• Test "Price Offs" as an alternative to coupons. quirements.
• lnstall a two call/cycle coverage system that
increases calls per day by 25%.
• Develop and implement an "Electronic" Sales
Data/Administration system with all manag-
ers.
• Implement a new item ("Two Week Blitz")
system to increase speed to market.
• Test manufactured coupon packs and B1 G1 F
promotions.
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Issue:
An increasingly complex sales environment requires better quality people with new skills,
broader business experience, and more focus on selling.
Strategy:
Build a people advantage.
Action Plan:
1992-1996
• Continue/expand the performance manage-
ment system positioned in 1991.
• Train key Sales management in negotiation,
market analysis, and recruiting.
• Implement an entry level college recruiting
program in 24 targeted schools.
• Implement a KGF Cross-Training program at
the unit manager level.
• Design a customer/PM-USA management
exchange program to expand our learning
process with customers.
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Issue:
As brands continue to segment the marketplace, we need to capitalize on regional/market
account specific opportunitites through better localized sales management.
Strategy:
Localize decision making and accountability.
Action Plan:
1992-1993 1994-1996
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• Complete Field Sales Force reorganization
by July 1992.
• Make the region the focal point for planning.
- Establish operating, merchandising,
promotion and trade relations budgets.
- Develop volume planning process at the
region level.
• Push budget responsibilities and volume
objectives down to district level.
• Continue STEP UP & GROW.
- Set and measure objectives at all levels.
- Publish by section and district on a
monthly level.
- Expand and refine measures.
• Enhance existing section sales information
system and develop a similar one for the
district level:
- Customer Tracking/Retail Direct Manage-
ment System
- Wholesale Shipment Activity reports used
for Modelling/Production Forecasting
• Improve NY/Field Communications.
- Issue monthly Brand/Sales Management
Report (covering the most important
issues and/or new strategic directives) to
the field sales force.
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1
issue:
Trade customers are becoming Increasingly reliant on a few key suppliers to help them grow
their business. These customers are influential in developing consumer needs.
Strategy:
Establish first-tier supplier status with key customers.
Action Plan:
1992 -1993 1994 - 1996
• Execute customer specific trade relations • Differentiate us from the competition.
events at the local and national level.
- Design a computer-aided, profit based shelf
• Complete the first Trade Council cycle of meet- plan-o-gram selling program.
ings and review for improvement. - Explore the use of DPP to build store profit-
ability.
• Evaluate and improve the National Accounts
group and strategy.
• Expand private label presence and profitabil-
ity.
• Analyze the results of the "Preferred Supplier
Survey" and assess how PM measures up to
other first-tier suppliers. Implement appropri-
ate steps.
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Issue:
Competitors are escalating couponing rates and expanding merchandising payments to
Include overhead merchandisers in pack outlets, challenging our strong position in these
channels. PM-USA must develop programsthat compete effectivelywithout escalating costs.
Strategy:
Meet competitive spending with volume based programs and PM-USA/KGF convenience store
synergistic promotions.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
• Implement a volume based merchandising
plan that rewards building PM-USA volume
through total store participation.
• Impierrient a volume based Retail Masters
plan that rewards building PM-USA volume
through reducing out-of-stocks, supporting
new items, and developing private labei
partnerships.
• Implement a cost based quantity discount
program to encourage more efficient order-
ing/distribution from direct customers.
• Develop and test PM Inc. convenience store
promotion plan that includes cigarettes, hot
dogs and coffee.
• Develop and implement a private label
strategy that contributes to our overall profit
goals.
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EXHIBIT VI
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MANAGEMENT CHANGE
TOTAL MANAGEMENT
EMPLOYEES IN
PLACE EMPLOYEES
REMAINING % HAN ,
REGION V.P. 5 3 40%
SECTION DIR. 29 22 24%
SUPERVISOR/DM 79 32 59%
NY DIRECTORS 12 7 42%
TOTAL 125 64 45%
EXHIBIT VII
MINORITY/FEMALE REPRESENTATION
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IN PLACE
DEQ,'90 IN PLACE
DEC.'91 % CHANGE
REGION V.P. 1 0 _1000/,
SECTION DIR. 4 4 0%
SUPERVISOR/DM 20 25 25%
NY DIRECTORS 2 5 150%
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EXECUTIVE ACCOUNTS
W.I. CAMPBELL
D. DANGOOR
C. JOHNSON
F. LAUX
E. MERLO
J. NELSON
H. STEELE
M. SZYMANCZYK
L WEXLER
EXHIBIT VIII
MC LANE
SOUTHLAND
SAM'S - WALMART
KROGER
CIRCLE K
MOBIL
A&P
CORE MARK
K-MART
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MASS MERCH/
CHAIN DRUG
PACE MEMBERSHIP
CLUBS
BIG D DRUG
MAYS DRUG STORES
MEDIC DISCOUNT
DRUG STORES
FAYS DRUGS
EXHIBIT IX
TRADE COUNCIL MEMBERS
SUPERMARKETS
CONV/GAS-CONV
WHOLESALE
GROCERS/DIST
FAREWAY STORES
PIGGLY WIGGLY
ABCO MARKETS
SAVE MART
DOMINICKS FINER
FOODS
GRAND UNION CO.
OUICKTRIP
CLARK OIL
EMRO MARKETING
SPECTRUM STORES
SOUTHLAND CORP.
ARCO PETROLEUM
SHEETZ INC.
MAVERICK MARKETS
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MCLANE
WETTERAU
OLD DOMINION
M. SOSNICK
SAMELSON LEON
AMCON DIST.
ELI WITT
FLEMING COMPANIES
TRIPIFOODS
EBY BROWN
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OPERATIONS
The proliferation of discount brands and overall growth of the discount segment have heightened the
vulnerability of our premium brands to these less expensive products. Operations will focus its
efforts
on developing technologies which provide consumer benefits in order to enhance the equity of our
premium trademarks.
The decelerating volume growth in both the domestic and international cigarette markets, combined
with increased market fragmentation, will require Operations to improve manufacturing flexibility
and
provide cost efficient products. Similarly, the shift coming from a high volume growth business
towards a market with flat volumes and pressured margins will require a change in management
focus.
Product Development
R&D will continue to pursue innovative product breakthroughs that provide value-added benefits
to consumers. Targeted programs are underway to improve product attributes, namely, reduced
sidestream smoke and reduced odor. New product development efforts will focus on products which
have reduced ignition propensity, in response to expected regulation in this area. In addition, work
will continue on the Beta program - our proprietary alternative product.
Production Flexibility
Operations will limit manufacturing cost increases by keeping them below inflation over the five
year
planning period. One of the primary forces behind cost increases will be the continued segmentation
of both the domestic and international markets. In response to this proliferation, Operations will
focus
on improving manufacturing flexibility. In addition, particular emphasis will be placed on managing
fixed costs through, headcount control. The principle objective will be to become the lowest cost
producer per category.
Product Cost Differentiation
The rapid increase experienced in the discount segment during the past two years is projected to
continue. Correspondingly, to more appropriately reflect this segment's profit contribution,
manufac-
turing will lower the cost of direct materials and tobacco components on a cost per thousand basis
forthese brands. Similarly, we will strive to consolidate where appropriate, both direct materials
and
tobacco blends to improve our manufacturing and procurement efficiencies.
Leaf Supply
Tobacco leaf contributes 40% of the manufactured cost of cigarettes. Curbing the rising cost of
tobacco, either by reducing stock prices or by using alternative tobacco substrates, will be a key
objective during the planning cycle. Also of importance will be maintaining our competitive price
position in producing our discount blend through the use of scrap material. A defensive strategy to
retain this competitive price position will be implemented.
Expanding volumes of oriental tobacco growing in Thailand and the development of new growing
practices in Malawi, and Albania will ensure an adequate feedstock over the plan period. Both burley
and domestic flue-cured tobacco feedstocks are sufficient for the planned forecast. Lower import
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prices will drive the business to incorporate larger percentages of imported tobacco. Domestic
political issues on rising import volumes will continue to be a concern during the plan period.
Environmental Protection
PM-USA will take a proactive approach to resolve environmental issues. During the next five years,
PM-USA will conduct an extensive discovery program to review and develop a comprehensive data
base on all releases at each facility. Work will also continue on developing aftemative processes
that
eliminate or drastically reduce current emission levels and evaluate new control technologies.
Management
As PM-USA progresses from a high volume growth, high margin business to one which shows low
or limited volume growth and pressured profit margins, new demands will be placed on Operations
management. As evidenced by the demand shift in the global marketplace, cigarette growth will come
from our international markets. Correspondingly, we envisage a major shift away from a domestic
management point of view towards a global management perspective. Likewise, performance
standards that were developed for a high capacity, high margin business will gradually become
obsolete and require new measures to adequately judge business performance.
Lower profit margins will demand that cross-functional alliances be formed to better utilize our
strengths and competitive advantages. Already, Manufacturing and Sales are jointly developing a
domestic distribution network which will revolutionize the way we service our customers. Further
cross-functional alliances will be needed and developed to maintain our competitive edge in this
changing environment.
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R&D - Product Development
R&D product development efforts during the five year plan period will focus on 4 major areas: (1)
enhancing the attributes of our brands, particularly in the area of social acceptability, to retain
the
loyalty of consumers of our brands; (2) developing new and enhanced methods of addressing
consumer health concerns; (3) defending our products against both domestic and international
regulations; and (4) developing innovative products for long-term growth.
Social Acceptability
Smoking restrictions continue to increase in the U.S. Currently, 26 states and more than 300
localities
have enacted laws to restrict smoking in restaurants. Twenty-eight states and approximately 300
localities have laws governing smoking in the work place. Sixty percent of all U.S. companies now
restrict smoking, up from 16% in 1980. One-quarter of 283 companies surveyed in 1989 by the
Administrative Management Society were smoke free, up from 14% in 1988. Therefore, any change
that would make smoking more socially acceptable to non-smokers will promote added value to our
consumers.
These restrictions are clearly having a negative effect on cigarette sales. R&D will address the
following three cues identified by non-smokers: visible sidestream smoke, sidestream odor, and
irritation caused by sidestream smoke.
Issue:
Smoking restrictions are expected to increase during the Plan period. These restrictions will
negatively impact cigarette sales.
Strategy:
Enhance the product attributes of existing premium products to address smoking restriction issues
and defend against market share erosion.
Action Plan:
1992 - 1996
1992 -1996
• Project Lotus
Develop a full circumference product with at
least 70% reduced visible sidestream and
acceptable subjectives with respect to an
appropriate control. The project is sched-
uled to have an optimum low sidestream
paper selected by mid-1993.
• Project Ambrosia
Develop a product with a more neutral
sidestream aroma. Preparation of a viable
release agent is scheduled to be completed
in the second quarter of 1992.
• Reduced Sidestream Irritation
Identify potential irritants that are present in
sidestream smoke and determine approxi-
mate quantities. Initiate studies to reduce or
eliminate these irritants.
• Ash Tray Odor
Investigate the possible use of a commercial
deodorizer to decrease ash tray odor.
• Lingering Odor
Carry out an initial study to determine if low
sidestream products are lower in lingering
odor than conventional products.
• Consumer Research
Determine what additional aspects of social
acceptability have the greatest appeal to
consumers, and whether there is likely to be
a viable market for such products.
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Consumer Health Concerns
An analysis of the cigarette market overthe last 50 years suggests that there have been oniy two
major
influences on smokers' buying patterns; namely, smokers seeking to address their health concern
and smokers seeking price relief. Previous product changes driven by health concerns were the
growth of filtered products from 3% to 70% of the market between 1945 and 1953, and the growth of
the low tar segment to nearly 50% of the market by 1985. Both of these approaches are essentially
complete. Filtered cigarettes now make up over 96% of the market, and the growth of low tar products
has slowed considerably. It is likely that a successful product in this health segment will be based
on
a completely different approach than simply lower tar levels.
Issue:
Consumer health concerns are a primary Influence on buying patterns of existing smokers.
Strategy:
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Develop products which address consumers' health concerns.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
1993-1996
• Continue development of the Web Filter
Program - "Merit Ultima technology".
Develop a cigarette filtration system which
addresses consumers' concerns particularly
in the area of ultra low delivery products.
The specific goal is to develop a web filter
material which combines the filter efficiency
properties of paper with the subjective
response of cellulose acetate. This project
is scheduled to be completed by the fourth
quarter of 1992.
• Refine development of the Half-nic
product.
Develop a 100mm, 9mg cigarette with
0.3mg nicotine delivery with subjectives
equal to a 0.6mg nicotine product. Tech-
niques which will be used include optimiza-
tion of papers, new casing systems, and
investigation of alternate filtration systems.
This project is scheduled to evaluate the
most promising product during the third
quarter of 1992.
• Reduce Mainstream Carbon Monoxide
(CO).
Develop catalysts to incorporate into ciga-
rette filters which reduce the amount of CO
delivered to smokers. A number of catalysts
are currently being investigated, and project
feasibility will be determined by the end of
1993.
• Create low tar/high flavor products.
New activities will be defined that will
examine the benefits of combining New
Expanded Tobacco (NET) with technologies
developed from the paper and filter technol-
ogy programs to develop an ultra low tar
product with improved taste attributes.
• Develop product attribute that can be
used to re-establish Merit's position as
the expert In low tar technology. Explora-
tion in limiting the tar to more volatile and
flavorful components will be designed to
support Merit as "the low tar expert".
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Federal and Export Regulations
Federal, state, or local governmental regulations that affect PM-USA's business are a constant
concern. The most pressing current issue is the Fire Safe Cigarette Act of 1990 which may ultimately
result in a mandate that U.S. cigarettes be "fire safe" (as determined by an as yet undeveloped
test)
by 1994. Should this mandate be issued, it could impact every product we manufacture today.
There are a numberof countries inwhich tarand nicotine levels are regulated, and R&D has supported
PMI in ensuring that products for these countries have optimal subjectives while meeting delivery
ceilings. On January 1, 1992, the first round of tar ceiling goes into effect for the EEC. At that
time,
cigarettes in most member nations cannot exceed a delivery of 15 mg tar. On January 1, 1995, the
second tarceiling goes into effect forthe EEC; namely, 12 mg. The vast majority of products marketed
by PM-Europe in the EEC can be reformulated to meet the 15 mg ceiling with relatively few problems.
Meeting the 12 mg tar ceiling, however, will require considerable effort in order to maintain
current
subjectives. Additionally,dutyfreeproducts-specificallyMarlboro-exportedfromtheU.S.to Europe,
must also be reformulated.
Issue:
Future governmental regulations will likely Impact products we manufacture today.
Strategy:
Closely monitor and be prepared to comply with proposed government regulations.
Action Plan:
1992 -1996
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• Complete Project Tomorrow - Ignition
Propensity
Develop a product that will meet federally
established criteria for ignition propensity.
The technical feasibility will be assessed in
the second quarter of 1994. Two different
product development approaches are being
considered:
- Low mass burn rate
- Self-Extinguishing.
~ Meet International Tar and Nicotine
Levels.
PM-USA R&D will continue to support PMl
in the development of products to meet
government tar and nicotine ceilings.
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Manufacturing - Cost Effectiveness
Operations Objective
Operations will limit manufacturing cost increases to less than expected Inflation for the
five year plan cycle.
Manufacturing cost pressures during the plan period will arise from three distinct areas: (1) the
projected proliferation of new products and packages; (2) the historical price increases and
percentage of manufacturing costs associated with leaf tobacco; and (3) the projected increase of
the
discount segment.
Production Flexibility
Product Proliferation
The decade of the 1990's is projected to continue the brand and product proliferation experienced in
the 1980's. Ever Increasing numbers of filters, tobacco blends, packaging and unique products will
create new levels of manufacturing complexities. The growth in brand packings has been phenomenal,
increasing over 68% in the last five years. In 1990, PM-USA sold 58 billion units, which represented
26% of our sales, under brand names or packings that did not exist in 1980.
The proliferation of products and product components is primarily attributable to the growth in the
export market, which is forecasted to continue, although at a slower rate. Because of the number of
individual countries now supplied by PM-USA, the associated product variation has increased
significantly. The opening of additional export markets has prompted the development of new blends,
new cigarette designs, and new packaging designs. Many brands produced for export also have
unique specifications and require special or dedicated equipment such as charcoal plug filter makers
and carton overwrappers.
The complexity of our brand mix is also influenced by trends in the domestic market. Increasing
numbers of promotional programs and "niche" products, such as Merit Ultima, Marlboro Express,
Marlboro 5/15/20 pack cartons and packs with rounded corners, are being targeted at specific, and
often, small market segments. "Niche" products frequently require special manufacturing attention
because of their differential characteristics. Weexpectthetrendtoward°niche"products,promotional
programs and line extensions to continue during the plan period.
As the number of brands and packings increase, both domestic and export, the number of change-
overs increase. Our most "flexible" facility, Stockton Street, presently experiences 11 to 15 brand
change-overs per day within athree shift operation. As a direct result of these frequent
change-overs,
Stockton Street is our ieast efficient plant with a rated production of less than 10,000 cigarettes
per
labor hour. This rate is one-third of the typical productivities achieved at both the Manufacturing
Center and Cabarrus. Over the plan period, the number of changes is expected to increase. A
consequence of these change-overs is a corresponding increase in down time, since cigarette
making equipment requires significant adjustment when blend, paper, or adhesive changes are
made. All of these production issues highlight the need for improved flexibility, optimized sourcing
and clearly focused factories. Further, improved coordination among plants is vital.
Issue:
Product proliferation Is projected to Increase 35% during the Plan period. This growth In the
number of manufactured units will put tremendous pressure on operations to maintain cost
structure.
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Strategy:
Develop (retrofit) a cost effective, multi-product manufacturing capability to produce low volume
products, support brand line extensions and provide new product launch capabilities.
Action Plan:
1992 -1996
Cigarette Manufacturing
Cabarrus Expansion
Maximize available flexibility and aliocate
brands accordingly.
Stockton Street/Louisville
Investigate retrofitting andlor consolidating
one or both of these facilities to accommo-
date long range forecasts.
Manufacturing Center
Consider projects to upgrade efficiencies
and provide greater flexibility.
Primary Processing
1992 -1996
• Consolidate Blend Variants:
Flavor Formulas
Reduce the number of ingredients by 2% to
3% per year during the plan period.
Tropical Fillers
Determine whether there is a need for
separate tropical filler specifications or
whether they can be eliminated. A recom-
mendation for consolidation will be made in
the third quarter of 1992.
Menthol Application Processes
Determine the single most effective process
to apply menthol to our mentholated ciga-
rettes.
• Create a cost-effective, flexible primary
that blends and delivers components on
demand.
Develop a new, highly flexible primary
process with reduced conversion costs. The
benefits of this program will be greater
flexibility for new products. Additional
benefits will include a potential cigarette
weight reduction of approximately 50 mg
and a reduced primary conversion cost.
Implementation is anticipated to be com-
pleted by 1993. This is expected to be used
as the primary processing approach for the
Cabarrus expansion.
Other
• Reevaluate Verticai Integration.
Evaluate our current policies regarding
vertical integration and review the strategic
benefits of maintaining an internal source
against any financial benefits from divesting
facilities. Areas under consideration include:
stemming, export blended strips, cigarette
paper perforation, and printing.
• Manufacturing Systems integration
Develop a mechanism to realize just-in time
delivery and lower inventory costs for all
direct materials. The long range objective is
to develop a"Business Systems Integration"
perspective - supplier to distributor ap-
proach.
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Product Cost Differentiation
The growth of the discount category has, by necessity, heightened our financial consciousness and
sharpened our focus on the importance of cost control and productivity. Discount brands as a
percentage of PM-USA's total volume is expected to grow from 17.0% in 1991 to 24.1 % by 1996 with
growth primarily from FVB, Bristol and Cambridge.
Market share in this category is largely driven by price. Consequently, the discount category is
subjected to intensely competitive pricing - correspondingly, the low cost producer will have a
competitive advantage relative to profitability. As shown on the graphs below, the marginal
contribution of Basic and All American Value brands is less than the marginal contribution of the
premium brands. However, there is little or no difference in the manufacturing costs among these
brands.
1991 Marginal Contribution By Category
50 T
40 ~ 37.66
30.00
Prem ium
Branded
Generic
Bristol
Basic
AAV/Private,
Label
1991 Total Variable Cost By Category
20.00 1- 17.40 17.26 16.06 17.33 17.79
10.00
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Premium Branded Bristol Basic AAV/Private
Generic Label
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Issue:
The lowest cost manufacturer will have a pricing advantage in the discount segment. As the
percentage of PM-USA's volume shifts more towards discount brands (24.1% In 1996),
Operations must become more cost effective.
Strategy:
Continue to drive down the manufacturing cost of our discount brands and increase the differential
between this category and our premium brands.
Action Plan:
1992-1996
• Reduce Cigarette Rod Weight.
The new primary under development has as
one of its goals the reduction of rod cigarette
weights by 50 mg.
• Optimize PriceNalue Blend.
- Investigate the use of Reconstituted Leaf
(RL) to significantly increase filling power.
- Investigate the possible use of burley
stems in the blend.
• Consolidate Blends:
- Carbon consolidation to one type from
three.
- Wood pulp to replace flax base paper.
- Humectant reduction.
- Menthol flexibility to use natural or syn-
thetic menthol.
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Leaf Supply
Global Leaf Utiiization
Americanblendcigarettesusethreetypesofleaf:burley,flue-curedandoriental. PM-USApurchases
both burley and flue-cured tobaccos in the U.S. and offshore. There is currently a good supply of
quality leaf both here and abroad, but domestic leaf is generally more expensive. Current estimates
project that the average price differential of offshore burley and flue-cured tobacco versus domes-
tically grown tobacco will be $1.15 per pound in 1996. Domestic tobacco is expected to increase in
price at a rate of 4% to 4.5% per pound per year during the plan period.
For 1991, our strip imports increased by 61 % over 1990, reflecting our growing market share in the
domestic discount segment, growth of the export market, as well as additional leaf purchases
required
to reestablish optimal target inventory levels. Leaf imports for the aggregate domestic cigarette
industry are projected to increase by 19%, during this plan period largely driven by PM-USA
purchases.
The difference in price between offshore and domestically grown tobacco will intensify the desire to
increase inclusion rates of offshore tobacco, in order to reduce the cost of leaf during the plan
period.
However, the significant growth in offshore tobacco usage last year and the expected increase during
the plan period, is a concern which may result in adverse political activities. The domestic farming
community could influence congressional support of tobacco industry issues and potentially impact
excise and local taxes.
Considering our large tobacco requirements, desired product characteristics, and political issues,
PM-USA will continue to depend heavily on domestically grown leaf. Sufficient burley and flue-cured
tobacco will be available to meet forecasted demand.
Sixty-five percent of our oriental tobacco requirements are sourced from Turkey, where production
is stable. However, leaf production continues to decline in Greece, Yugoslavia, and Lebanon.
All of these aspects are currently being reviewed from a domestic point-of-view. But, as the volume
overthe plan period shifts fromthe domestic market to the international market, eitherbyway of
export
or local international manufacture, the purchase of leaf and its usage becomes a global issue, not
simply a PM-USA issue.
Issue:
Tobacco remains the largest variable cost item for our cigarettes, which when combined with
casing accounts for 40% of the cost of cigarettes.
Strategy:
Utilize the combined purchasing power of PM-USA and PMI in developing a global leaf buying and
utilization plan that secures quality leaf forthe lowest price to supply Company needs for both leaf
and
"processed leaf."
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Action Plan:
1992 -1996
• Consider offshore alternative of lower
grades and less expensive tobaccos for
generic products.
• Pursue the possibility of adjusting growing
and harvesting processes of domestic
farmers toward greater mechanization and
lower operating costs.
• Develop oriental tobacco pricing strategies
to minimize foreign exchange rate exposure.
• Approach grower organizations about
contracting directly with farmers to grow a
specific type/grade of tobacco to meet our
specifications. I
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• Encourage U.S. burley farmers to consoli-
date their quotas for acreage and designate
acreage for standard harvesting and for
mechanical harvesting. Consider the
contracting for this with a cooperative rather
than working through a warehouseman.
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Scrap Supply
The discount product category (third tier) is experiencing rapid growth which is projected to
continue
throughout the plan. PM-USA's third tier blend has a competitive price advantage of approximately
$1 per thousand cigarettes versus competitive blends. Our concept relies on using scrap materials
in a single blend, to produce 15, 11 and 6 mg tar cigarettes in both 85mm and 100mm lengths. The
variations in delivery are produced by adjusting dilution with filter and paper changes. The
competition fulfills this segment with at least two blend types using Expanded Tobacco (ET) at
different inclusion rates to control the burn rate. At present, the competition is not in a position
to take
advantage of our blend concept due to an insufficient scrap supply.
The rapid growth of the discount segment, and the possible emergence of a fourth tier during the
planning cycle, may strain available world-wide scrap volumes. Additionally, Japan Tobacco
incorporated (JTI) has reformulated their sheet manufacturing process from a paper technology to
a slurry technology which will increase their scrap demand.
Issue:
Obtaining a sufficient scrap supply Is critical to maintain our competitive price advantage In
the discount category.
Strategy:
Maintain a sufficient global scrap supply.
Action Plan:
1992 -1996
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• Purchase Oriental Scrap.
Negotiations are under way to purchase
scrap from Tekel, in addition to the 5 million
pounds we currently receive.
• Optimize PM-USA's Global Scrap
Volumes.
PM-USA, as the largest generator of scrap
tobacco, must optimize its use of scrap to
maximize utilization. Other development
efforts, namely the modification of the full
margin blends to accommodate a shrinking
supply of tips, will reallocate scrap to this
category.
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Increased volumes combined with changes in leaf production practices will strain the availability of
tips that are required in our premium blends, particularly Marlboro. Both our burley and flue-cured
blends incorporate a higher percentage of tips than are produced in a given tobacco crop. PM-USA's
increased demand combined with the growing PMI demand for tips will make it difficult to secure the
required amounts. Compounding this volume effect, changes in production practices, especially with
burley, are resulting in a decreased volume of tips being grown on an annual basis.
Issue:
Securing tips In the appropriate blend ratio Is critical to maintain our subjective product
quality.
Strategy:
Reduce our dependence on the higher ratio of tips in our premium blends, while maintaining
equivalent subjectives.
Action Plan:
1992 -1996
• Modify Full Margin Blends.
Reduce the % of tips and increase the
inclusion of Expanded Tobacco (ET) by 1%
to 2% in 1992.
• Optimize the use of New Expanded
Tobacco (NET) in premium brands. New
Expanded Tobacco provides an opportunity
to offer better subjectives.
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Environmental Protection
During the previous decade, industry emphasized controlling and treating emissions and discharges,
whether it was to the air, water, or land. In many cases, control and treatment will continue as
viable
options. However, the focus is shifting towards preventing the generation of pollutants at the
source.
As environmental regulations become more stringent, there is an advantage in reducing emissions
altogether. Permits, particularly for air emissions, may seriously impair manufacturing flexibility
as
the approval time for permits increase.
The list of environmental laws, both federal and state, is extensive. In addition to 94federal laws,
there
are 20 laws in the state of Virginia, 13 in the state of North Carolina, and 12 applicable to the
state
of Kentucky and Jefferson County. Currently, PM-USA is in compliance with all of these. However,
the federal and state agencies that are responsible for the enforcement of these laws also issue
regulations which set out what is required for compliance. These regulations may change, even
though the laws themselves do not change. Consequently, the fact that an organization is in
compliance with a law today, does not guarantee that it will be in compliance in the future.
Moreover,
the regulations are subject to interpretation which may also change over time.
Over the next five years, these trends will intensify with a renewed emphasis on enforcing existing
regulations and an increased emphasis on reducing emissions not previously regulated. In 1990,
Congress passed the amended Clean Air Act, which will cost industry and the taxpayer about $21
billion. Hazardous and solid waste disposal will continue as a high priority as landfills are
reaching
capacity and the cost for disposal escalates. Most states are legislating recycling to meet the
national
goal for reducing landfill disposal by 25% in 1992.
By far, the most important law is the amended Clean Air Act of 1990. Two aspects of this law are of
critical importance. First, permits will have to be renewed periodically. The renewal process will
require emission data to identify compounds that are emitted, emission rates, and most importantly,
where the compounds go. Secondly, as part of the Clean Air Act, the EPA will phase in a federal air
toxics program. This program will mandate control limits on 189 listed hazardous air pollutants. The
effect of this activity will impact PM-USA's current emissions.
Another future area of importance involves the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System
permits which affect both Park 500 and the Manufacturing Center. These permits deal with waste
discharges from manufacturing operations and are good for five years. In the coming years, tighter
state water quality standards, resulting from the expansion of the list of chemicals monitored and
the
lowering of the concentration of those already monitored, will be of concern to PM-USA.
Critical areas in which PM-USA must concentrate in 1992 to ensure that PM-USA remains in
compliance are the reduction of total volatile organic compounds in our factories and processing
facilities.
Issue:
increased governmental compliance regulations In the areas of air, water, solid and hazard-
ous waste will require extensive PM-USA resources.
Strategy:
PM-USA will take a proactive approach and become an industry leader in the areas of discovery and
remediation of environmental issues.
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Action Plan:
1992 -1996
1992 -1996
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• Carry-out Environmental Audits and
Process Verification.
Environmental audits are scheduled for all
factories. They will start the fourth quarter of
1991 and will be completed in 1994. Audits
will typically include reviews on waste, air
pollution, water pollution, spill plans, chemi-
cal disposal practices, and all available
documentation.
• Establish a Corporate Database.
A database will be established of all re-
leases at each facility that contain materials
regulated by environmental laws or subject
to permits held by each facility. The pro-
gram will be completed by 1993.
• Implement Project Grain.
The major contributors to volatile organics in
the factories are ethanol, used both in burley
top casing and aftercut flavorings, and
propylene glycol, a humectant. Project
Grain will reduce emissions through lower-
ing alcohol usage and humectant reformula-
tion for flavor application. This project is
scheduled to be completed in the fourth
quarter of 1992.
• Reduce Stack Gases at the BL Plant and
the Richmond Leaf Processing Facility.
Although incineration of stack gases is a
viable technology for reducing emissions, it
is expensive from both a capital and opera-
tion standpoint. Consequently, the objective
of this project is to evaluate technologies
that are equally viable but more cost effec-
tive to reduce ammonia, volatile organic
compounds and nicotine stack discharges.
Both scrubbing and absorption techniques
are under consideration as is the reduction
in the usage of these materials. Final
recommendations are expected in the third
quarter of 1992.
• Waste water discharge projects - execute
these projects to eliminate the burley stem
wash water at the BL plant.
• Phosphorous - testing of the biological
treatment pilot.plant at Park 500 will be
completed in the third quarter of 1992. A full
scale chemical treatment plant at Park 500
is scheduled to be completed by the end of
1992.
• Nitrates - evaluate various options to
address stemwashing at Park 500.
• Control Solid and Hazardous Waste.
Solid waste recycling programs will be
established in Cabarrus and Louisville in
1992 and 1993, respectively. Drying
technology to reduce sludge at Park 500 is
being evaluated and, if successful, will be
implemented. In view of potential liabilities,
regular audits of hazardous disposal sites
will continue.
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Management
Cultural Change
PM-USA Operations has experienced considerable success in manufacturing a quality product at a
reasonable cost to meet marketing and sales needs, and helping PM-USA reach a leading industry
share. During the plan period, PM-USA is committed to maintaining this leadership in spite of a
declining market, severe price competition and margin erosion. One of the ways to ensure success
is to work smarter and harder than our competitors. PM-USA Operations is developing a new
management approach to meet the challenges of the changing market place.
The Operations organization has committed to becoming a results oriented, people sensitive culture.
It has begun developing a mechanism to successfully execute the operating principles of
participative
management to achieve superior results.
The processto developthis mechanism began in.Leesburg, Virginia last spring when the management
group identified the "As Was" and the "As Is" of the Operations culture. Six topics were used during
the meeting to identify the past and present, and to develop recommendations for the future. The
subjectswere: the Planning Process, Operations Integration, Communications, Employee Partnering,
Authority/Decision-making and the Vision forthe Future. Each topic was analyzed and a"To Be"was
identified. After sharing the "To Be" at a meeting in Amelia Island, Florida, senior Operations
management met to develop a plan to implement the recommendations it has accepted.
Issue:
The PM-USA operations culture has been characterized by autocratic behavior. This
approach thrives on'the mandated execution of work, but does not maximize the thinking,
Initiative, or creativity of the people doing the work. The culture must be changed to support
the participative management style needed for a results oriented, people sensitive culture In
changing market.
Strategy:
Use the Grade 14 and above management team as the role model for the desired participative
behavior. Influence their performance by rewarding communication, team work, and results.
Action Plan:
1992 -1996
1992 -1996
• lssue white paper describing Operations
philosophy, vision and business system for
new culture. (1991)
• Implement 360 degree behavioral analysis
of management. (1992) • Review and analyze each key department.
• Re-evaluate what we do and how we do it.
- Qualitative assessment
- Quantitative assessment.
• Model commitment to new culture with
behavioral examples among senior manage-
ment. (1992)
• Reorganize functional areas to eliminate
duplication and reduce managerial layers.
This will reduce fixed costs by reducing
managerial positions. (1992)
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• Assess who should hold position(s) in the
new organization.
• Remove people who do not fit or cannot
thrive in the new environment. (1992)
• Recognize and reinforce examples of
participative behavior. (1992)
• Continuously reassess the best approach
and the best people to meet our changing
needs.
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CORPORATE AFFAIRS
PM-USA's Corporate Affairs objective is to minimize excise taxes and government interference in the
production and marketing of cigarettes, and to protect the right of our consumers to smoke.
During the plan period, PM-USA will have to accomplish its volume, share and profit objectives in an
increasingly hosti le socio-political environment. One of the greatest threats to the industry is
taxation.
Federal taxes will increase at least 20% (4 cents per pack) in 1993 and will certainly be a threat
throughout the plan period. In addition to the legislated federal excise tax increase to take effect
in
1993, state excise taxes are forecasted to increase over the plan period between 7% and 10%,
annually. PM-USA's objective is to defeat any additional federal taxes, to keep state annual
cigarette
excise tax increases under 7% and promote the development of stable fiscal/tax policies which
distribute the tax burden equitably.
Other major challenges over the plan period include providing a balanced, accurate picture of
environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) and preventing further marketing restrictions on sampling, POS
displays, vending, sponsorships, and advertising. PM-USA will continue to work with industry
associations, business coalitions, non-profit organizations and government officials to promote
legislation protecting smokers from discrimination by employers. Also, we will work to defeat any
legislation mandating unreasonable product specifications in the areas of "fire safe" cigarettes,
ingredient labeling or packaging composition.
PM-USA's Corporate Affairs goals for the next five years are:
Taxation
• Minimize overall rate of excise tax increases.
• Reform legislative ballot process to limit tax increase initiatives.
• Promote a progressive and equitable tax structure.
• Refute myth of "social costs" placed on society by smokers.
• Eliminate ad valorem tax systems.
Product
• Preserve freedom to advertise/promote products.
• Demonstrate our commitment to market only to adults.
• Prevent onerous or burdensome mandated product specifications.
Consumers
• Defeat or modify state public or workplace smoking bans.
• Prohibit employment discrimination against smokers.
• Promote accommodation of smokers and non-smokers in public and private sectors.
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Marketing and Sales Restrictions
The organized anti-smoking movement is attempting to restrict or ban our ability to reach existing
smokers with marketing and sales vehicles considered legitimate tools for virtually all other
products.
Restrictions on advertising, sponsorship, sampling, couponing and sales practices limit our efforts
to
increase market-share. By restricting the industry's ability to use widely accepted marketing and
sales techniques, the anti-smoking forces are attempting to reduce public acceptability of
cigarettes.
PM-USA's goal is to defeat proposed marketing and sales restrictions orbans. PM-USA is proactively
supporting state legislation to preempt local restrictions, as well as to establish tobacco industry
marketing and sales guidelines as state law. The company is also responding to the "youth" issue
by developing programs to demonstrate its commitment to ensuring that smoking remains an adult
practice.
Issue:
The anti-smoking movement is using false charges about the targetting of youth, women and
minorities to advance legislation restricting or banning the marketing and sale of cigarettes.
Strategy:
PM-USA will use two strategies to combat marketing restrictions. First, we will advance our position
that smoking is an adult custom, that PM-USA does not want minors to smoke and is working in
cooperation with retailers to prevent minors from purchasing cigarettes. Second, we will demonstrate
to elected officials, public policy decision makers, the media and consumers that advertising,
sampling and sponsorship are forms of free speech protected by the First Amendment. To increase
awareness of company/industry initiatives we will use advertisements on the Youth Initiative in
selected publications and PM-USA communication vehicles (PM Editorial Services, PM Magazine
and the Smokers' Advocate).
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Action Plan:
Youth & Smoking
1992-1994
1992-1994
• Promote and enforce industry positions on
responsible marketing and sales practices:
- Responsible Living Program
(Helping Youth Say No)
- Advertising/Marketing Guidelines
- Responsible Vending Program
- It's the Law Awareness Program
- Pass industry age limit (18) in 6 states
presently without limits.
• Run PM-USA Youth Ads and expand press
coverage of PM-USA's "Actions and Initia-
tives" Program.
• Sponsor Family C.O.U.R.S.E. Consortium
Public Service Advertisements in place of
anti-smoking ads.
• Work with state law enforcement groups to
develop "Helping Youth Say No" school
curricula.
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Marketing Freedoms
• Develop state legal fellowship programs with
the American Civil Liberties Union and
Washington Legal Foundation to oppose
bans or restrictions (Freedom of Speech).
• Develop Sports Sponsorship Coalition to
promote/defend corporate right of sponsor-
ship.
• Coordinate with minority interest groups to
counter anti-smoker's claims on "targeting".
• Work with our advertisers and advertising
associations in developing grass roots
lobbying activities to assist Government
Affairs.
• Work with the National Conference of State
Legislators and other government associa-
tions to oppose resolutions on bans and
restrictions.
• Continue to broaden coalition of free speech
advocates and work with other industries
"targeted" for marketing bans or restrictions.
Long Term Goals
• Counter ASSIST Program in 17 states:
- Work with grass roots organizations to
divert state health department funds,
equivalent to the amount of ASSIST
funding, to support other health programs
(pre-natal care, half-way houses, etc.).
• Rollback Program:
- Particularly in localities, introduce legisla-
tion to reinstate marketing activities, such
as sampling and couponing, that have
been banned or restricted.
- Pass state preemption.
1992-1994
Sales Freedoms
• Develop retailer mobilization program to aid in
identifying and fighting local sales restrictions,
particularly vending and free standing display
bans or restrictions.
• Coordinate with minority business organiza-
tions to demonstrate the economic benefits of
the industry on minority communities.
• Use PM-USA communication vehicles (PM
Editorial Services, Magazine, Advocate and
Smoker's Caucus, Globe) to increase aware-
ness of responsible sales practices.
• Work with the National Conference of State
Legislators and othergovemment associations
to oppose resolutions on bans and restrictions.
Long Term Goals
• Rollback Program:
- Particularly in localities, introduce legislation
to reinstate sales practices, such as free
standing displays, that have been banned or
restricted.
- Pass state preemption.
1 140
"Social Costs"
Cigarette smoking has been inappropriately associated with a number of adverse social and
economic consequences. Productivity losses, absenteeism, rising health care costs and increases
in various types of insurance coverages are just a few.
The association of smoking with these social problems has spawned numerous anti-smoking policies.
Smoking bans and restrictions, divestiture of tobacco stocks, attacks on the tobacco price support
program, segregations of smokers and privacy infringement are activities which have been promoted
in the name of "social cost" offsets.
Issue:
The association of smoking and alleged health/socio-economic costs Is being leveraged by
anti-tobacco forces to advance anti-tobacco legislation and justify higher cigarette taxes.
Strategy:
Educate the media, policy makers and relevant business and civic groups to create a truthful,
balanced view of the "social cost" issue.
Action Plan:
1992-1994
• Develop and publish studies:
- Systematic, external micro-economic
models to provide a clear picture of
smoking's impact on society.
- Applicability and measurement of social
costs and social benefits to fiscal/tax
policy development.
- The value of free choice in a democratic
society.
• Identify and address political groups, fiscaV
tax analysts groups and appropriate govern-
mental bodies on social costs and the value
of individual freedoms.
1992-1994
• Develop studies comparing social fund
performance vs. PM and industry as a
whole.
• Write op-ed pieces in financial publications
on dangers of fund mismanagement,
emphasizing managers' fiduciary responsi-
bility.
Long Term Goals
• Sponsor sessions at annual conferences on
social cost theory and its application in
public policy development.
• Develop, disseminate and publish editorials
on social cost theory.
• Write op-ed pieces on various policy deci-
sions which have incorrectly used social
cost theory as a basis for justification.
• Co-sponsor symposiums with Centers in
Public Policy and Society of Government
Economists on social cost theory for
legislators and other government officials.
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Accommodation
PM-USA is taking a proactive approach to smoking bans and restrictions by promoting accommo-
dation programs as the primary legislative and private sector alternative.
Issue:
Onerous restrictions and bans reduce the number of environments In which individuais can
elect to smoke.
Strategy:
Demonstrateto elected officials, public policy decision makers, industry, unions, andtrade
associations
that the public supports accommodation programs. In addition, bans and restrictions impose costs
on the private sector, reduce tax revenue and promote government interference in business.
Action Plan:
1992-1994
1992-1994
• Introduce and market restaurant accommo-
dation program with state restaurant asso-
ciations, restaurateurs and chains.
• Promote building systems approach over
source control.
• Promote innovative HVAC (Heating, Ventila-
tion Air Con ) Systems.
• Develop and market workplace and service
venue accommodation programs with:
- National Federation of Independent
Businesses
- American Manufacturers Association
- International Council of Shopping Centers
- Hospitality/Service Associations.
• Use indoor air quality experts as witnesses,
testimony, op-ed and editorial visits to
promote sound indoor air quality programs
and demonstrate the problem of sick build-
ing syndrome.
• Sponsor study of:
- Costs of workplace bans (e.g. morale,
productivity).
- The fallacy of costs savings (e.g. health,
absenteeism claims).
- Present results in trade journals.
• Publicize Pittsburgh Benedum Project and
other innovative indoor air quality technology
through journal articles and trade publica-
tions.
• Implement EPA "Class A" mitigation strat-
egy:
- Host Indoor Air Quality Workshop with
NFIB Foundation and National Chamber
Foundation.
- Develop a business coalition to advocate
uniform federal risk assessment guide-
lines.
- Persuade OSHA to establish acceptable
ETS threshold levels for the workplace.
- Encourage further investigation of proce-
dural biases in EPA review process.
Long Term Goals
• Enact acceptable ventilation rates in state
building codes.
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Taxation
In addition to the federal deficits, forecasts of state fiscal and economic conditions conducted by
the
National Conference of State Legislatures and the National Association of State Budget Officers, as
well as others indicate that more than half the states are under substantial fiscal stress.
Congress,
governors and legislators face great pressure to provide services and fund escalating
infrastructure,
education and medical costs. This significantly raises the probability of increased cigarette excise
taxes which continue to be a revenue source for legislators seeking to close budget deficits. In
addition, the Hawaii ad valorem tax system places more of a burden on premium priced products.
Issue:
Federal, state and local excise tax increases raise the retail price of cigarettes and contribute
to industry volume decline.
Strategy:
Defeat cigarette excise tax proposals by participating in the development stages of tax
policythrough
the dissemination of i nformation to public policy analysts, as well as executive officers and
legislators.
These efforts are designed to cultivate them into reliable and informed allies.
Action Plan:
1992-1994
• Develop and publish studies on:
- Bootlegging/cross-border activities.
- Regressive nature of proposed taxes.
- Inflexibility/instability of "earmarked" taxes.
- Progressive solutions to deficit reductions.
- Efficiency of local taxing authority.
- Wasteful government programs and exces-
sive spending.
- Tobacco economic impact analysis.
- Stability of taxes derived via the ballot vs.
those derived via the legislature.
1992-1994
• Initiate, coordinate and develop grass roots
lobbying activities through Smokers' Cau-
cus, "Mobilizations", Smokers' Advocate.
• Identify and address community, civic and
business groups on excise taxes and tax
ballot initiatives.
• Publish editorials on tax developments
inefficiency of tax ballot initiatives, govern-
ment waste and regressivity.
• Promulgate analysis of aftemative revenue
sources.
• Co-sponsor forums and special events to
strengthen constituency development:
- Role of private sector in the delivery of
government services and efficient govern-
ment.
- History of the tax initiative and its impact
on development of fiscal and tax policies.
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Anti-discrimination and Privacy
Increasingly, legal off-the-job activities and lifestyle choices are used as criteria for employment
decisions including hiring, promotion and dismissal. Employee privacy rights are violated by
employer mandates regulating off-work activities and testing mechanisms established by employers
to ensure compliance with these mandates. Employers argue that these measures are necessary
to control costs, including health care benefits and productivity allegedly linked to certain
lifestyle
choices and behavior.
Issue:
Legal avocationai activities such as smoking, unrelated to job performance, are being used
by employers In matters of hiring, promotion and dismissal.
Strategy:
Demonstrate to elected officials and private sectordecision makers thatthe public supports
individual
privacy rights that protect legal avocational activities. In addition, show that the public favors
only the
use of job performance criteria for employment decisions.
Action Plan:
1992-1994 1992-1994
Long Term Goals
• Further develop coalitions with labor unions, • Pass anti-discrimination legislation in all 50
ACLU, human resource officials to promote states.
anti-discrimination efforts.
• Demonstrate public support for privacy rights
and nondiscrimination.
• Use privacy experts for speeches, expert wit-
ness testimony in court cases, legislative/rule
making bodies, media: op-ed, editorial visits
and feature articles.
• Place privacy/anti-discrimination news items
in print and broadcast media.
• Utilize PM-USA communication vehicles such
as PM magazine, Smoker's Advocate and
Smokers' Caucus to:
- Identify aggrieved parties.
- Raise public awareness of privacy and dis-
crimination issues.
- Specifically alert smokers to private/public
sector infringements.
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• Pass legislation prohibiting discrimination in
employment based on smoking status in a
total of 40 states.
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Mandated Product Specifications - "Fire Safe" Cigarettes
Through mandated product specifications, anti-smoking groups are attempting to eliminate brand
competitiveness, increase manufacturing costs, or ban the sale of tobacco products in their present
form or packaging. Presently, an effort in this area that poses a significant threat to the tobacco
industry is "fire safe" cigarettes. Anti-smoking groups allege that cigarettes are the most
identifiable
causes of fire-related deaths in the United States. In 1990, the Moakley Bill was signed into law
reauthorizing the Technical Study Group (TSG) for three years to create a standard for measuring
cigarette ignition propensity. in 1993 the TSG will report to Congress on its efforts to create a
test to
measure cigarette ignition propensity as well as to examine the feasibility of producing and
marketing
a "fire-safe° cigarette.
Issue:
Efforts by anti-smoking groups to mandate a"fire safe" cigarette could destroy the competi-
tiveness of leading brands and Increase the cost of manufacturing cigarettes.
Strategy:
During the plan period, PM-USA will expand coalitions among the fire prevention community and
public policy makers to diffuse support for "fire-safe" legislation at the state and federal level,
as well
as build public awareness of fire safety and prevention. A number of fire professionals believe that
cigarette-related fires are just one symptom of a more serious problem in the United States: the
lack
of public fire safety education and awareness. This is demonstrated by the fact that in all
categories
of fire, the U.S. has one of the worst fire records of any industrialized nation, including Japan
and
Germanywhere the incidence of smoking is as much as twice as high as the U.S. and yet the incidence
of fire in all categories is very low. Careless smoking in the U.S. ranks only sixth among causes of
fire after electrical distribution, incendiary and suspicious fires, appliances, heating equipment,
other
equipment and open flame.
Action Plan:
1992-1994 1992-1994
• Work with National Conference of State
Legislators and other government associa-
tions to oppose resolutions.
• Coordinate lobbying activities on state bills
with state fire, police and paramedic organi-
zations and unions.
• Feature articles in PM publications highlight-
ing significant achievements of fire, police
and paramedic professionals.
• Sponsor fire-safety awareness programs
with leading associations representing the
fire community (smoke detector use, Exit
Drills in the Home, Stop Drop and Roll).
• Use experts to develop information on costs
other causes of fire and study combustibility
of foreign products.
Long Term Goals
• Develop database of PM employees who
serve as volunteer fire fighters in their
communities.
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Mandated Product Specifications-Packaging/Material Bans
With the growth of environmental awareness in this country, the anti-smoking forces could also seek
to ban cigarette packaging that does not meet minimum recycled content requirements, or ban certain
packaging elements, such as polypropylene oraluminum-paper laminate which are difficultto recycle
or parts of cigarettes, such as filter TOW, which do not naturally biodegrade when disposed.
Issue:
Public concern over environmental Issues could place unreasonable requirements on our
products and packaging.
Strategy:
The establishment of a PM Companies Inc. Solid Waste Task Force has led to cooperative efforts
among operating companies' Corporate Affairs departments. Moreover, establishing unified PM
goals and objectives has enabled PM-USA to demonstrate a growing leadership position with
state legislatures as well as within many trade associations. In order to protect and enhance this
position, PM-USA and each operating company will continue to develop strategies in order to
promote our own progress. In addition to reducing the threat of harmful legislative proposals, the
following activities can also realize financial savings for the company:
Post-Consumer Wastes
• Establish targets to reduce packaging waste materials through source reduction,
recycling and degradability;
• Define long-term political objectives related support for either state or federal
government actions;
• Coordinate Corporate Affairs/Operations/Legal activities to protect Company interests;
• Conduct and sponsor research on new methods for waste reduction, particularly in the area
of packaging development.
Staff Activities
• Expansion of office waste recycling programs (sorting copier toner, computer ribbons as well
as waste cleaning solutions and solvents for collection and disposal);
• Promoting the use of recycled copier/computer paper and stationery;
• Where practical, establishing double-siding programs to eliminate paper waste;
• Initiating water and electricity conservation programs (turning off computers, copiers and
lights at night, using water restriction devices at all facilities);
• Ensuring that commissaries are participating in office recycling programs where possible;
• Developing joint education programs with administrators of curb-side collection programs
where our facilities and employees are located.
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Manufacturing Activities
0
Development of Richmond facility-type MRFs in other plan communities;
Compliance with federal, regional and state air and water standards for plan emissions.
Action Plan:
1992-1994
• Promote research on solid-waste manage-
ment through third parties and provide to
government associations.
• To assist Government Affairs, cross-
reference our data-base to locate areas
where PM employees are concentrated, or
where major suppliers are located.
• Develop programs (curb-side, education)
with favorable environmental groups.
• Participate in business coalitions:
- Tobacco Institute
- National Association of Manufacturers
- Grocery Manufacturers
- Coalition for Solid Waste Solutions
- National Waste Management
Association.
• Use PM-USA communication vehicles
(PM Editorial Services, Magazine, Advo-
cate and Smoker's Caucus, Globe) to
increase awareness of environmental
practices.
Develop advertorials, op-eds, editorials
and opponent responses on PM-USA's
environmental position and the company's
progress.
Conduct polling and publicize results
supporting our positions.
Long Term Goals
• Draft and sponsor our own ballot initiatives
concerning solid waste and recycling.
• Draft model state legislation.
• Develop consumer courtesy program
regarding the disposal of cigarette filters
(consumer polling, fixed ashtray program).
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EMPLOYEE RELATIONS
Achieving income targets will become increasingly difficult due to the hostile business climate and
competitive forces affecting our industry. Our need to manage the work force through an integrated
Human Resource plan, married to the overall business plan, is key to overcoming these obstacles.
Our Human Resource efforts must support productivity and cost effectiveness. Optimization of
employee performance at all levels is keyto meeting the future productivity demands. Thiswill
require
improved communication and a clear linkage between our performance management, leadership
development and training systems. Cost effectiveness can be achieved through a wholistic approach
that addresses compensation, benefits, environmental safety and health, and the labor component.
It is imperative that both management and employees recognize, understand and support the thrust
of the Human Resource plan and its focus on development and proper resource utilization.
• Performance Management Productivity improvements are a key to our ability to meet income
objectives. Our ability to improve productivity can be affected most by improved performance
management.
• Leadership Development: It is critical to develop the best and brightest people to ensure future
challenges are met.
• Manufacturing Training Developmenf: The success of the organization depends heavily on
having a well-trained work force, both salaried and hourly.
• Total Compensation: Development of a philosophy on total compensation is vital to effective
management of human resource cost.
• Benefits: Weighing the pressure of work force satisfaction with rising benefit costs continues to
pose a significant challenge to management.
• Compensation: The linkage of financial rewards to desired business results must be clearly
understood by the total work force to maximize its effect on performance.
• Environmental Health & Safety: A corporate EH&S program needs to be developed for all
functional areas, with emphasis on ergonomics, audits and training. Ergonomically designed
equipment and facilities add value by encouraging maximum productivity and quality, while
ensuring a safe operation.
• Labor Relations: Our focus must be on reducing operating costs directly attributable to hourly
labor and ensure continuing operations provided by hourly labor.
• Affirmative Action: From now until the end of the century, 85% of workforce growth will come from
women, blacks and people of Hispanic or Asian origin. The diversity of the new work force,
coupled with recently enacted legislation, will present continued challenges for PM-USA.
• Employment As negative perceptions about the industry continue to evolve and internal
promotional opportunities become more limited, our challenge is to attract, identify and retain
qualified employees who meet the specific and varied needs of our organization.
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Performance Management
Achieving extraordinary business results requires clear and well communicated corporate goals that
are effectively cascaded throughout the organization, coupled with clearly defined and understood
professional competencies required to achieve those goals.
A system of Performance Management that facilitates the cleartranslation of PM-USA business goals
to all levels, clarifies the competencies required at each level of the organization and integrates
tools
for identification, assessment, development and motivation should be at the core of our human
resource efforts. This system must be clearly understood at all levels of the organization.
Issue:
Manage PM-USA employee performance through an understandable and cohesive process
that Is compatible with processes In other PM Companies.
Strategy:
Manage performance through a system that integrates a clear goal setting process with clearly
defined critical competencies and position specifications. Use evaluations from the system as a
basis
for further assessment, training, development, career and succession planning, promotion,
displacement and outplacement.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
1992-1993
• Work closely with the corporate staff to
investigate how best to implement
Managing and Appraising Performance
(MAP) PM-USA-wide, using existing initia-
tives as a priority. (1992-1993)
• Develop a model for translating PM-USA-
wide plans in terms meaningful to a specific
business unit. The ensuing Business Unit
Plan would then be shared with all
employees in the unit. Each employee's
contribution to the plan's achievement would
be defined in terms of targets, strategies and
action plans. (1992-1993)
• Define the critical competencies necessary
at each level of the organization, i.e.,
director, manager, supervisor/professional,
technical, administrative. (1992-1993)
• Ensure that position descriptions accurately
reflect the technical specifications of all
positions. (1992-1993)
• Complete all realignment processes initiated
in 1991 prior to commencement of the
performance management (MAP) education
process. (1992-1993)
• Support the organization-wide
implementation of the Business Unit
Planning Process by developing the model,
format and timing guidelines. (1992-1993)
• Develop a comprehensive organizational
review process incorporating critical
competencies, technical job requirements
and performance against business unit
goals (MAP). (1992-1993)
• Develop guidelines for training the work
force on new competencies, technical job
requirements and specific work unit goals.
(1992-1993)
• Implement organizational review process in
preparation for introducing MAP in 1993.
(1992-1993)
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1993-1996
• Administer MAP on an ongoing basis;
maintain the integrity of the process, i.e.,
review/update competencies, technical
requirements, new business goals, etc.
Continue to investigate MAP enhancements,
e.g., quarterly performance discussions,
collaborative appraisal sessions, other
operating company innovations, etc. (1993- .
1996)
• Utilize MAP evaluations to identify high
potential performers (hipo's), highly
professional performers (hipro's), solid
performers and candidates for displacement/
outplacement. These identifications become
a springboard for assessment (EADP, CLE),
development (LDP, MMTP), career and
succession planning, promotion,
displacement/outplacement. (1993-1996)
• Review other HR systems, i.e., Employ-
ment, Compensation, Affirmative Action,
OMD to measure their alignment with the
Performance Management System. (1993-
1996)
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Leadership Development
Our long term business goals mandate that our human resources possess the motivation, business
acumen and commitment necessary to lead our growth and future prosperity.
Ourfuture leaders need not only be able to think strategically, they must also lead strategically.
The
critical first step in the process is the identification and selection of the best and the brightest
to be
developed to meet future challenges. Our Company's long term commitment to the identification
and advancement of qualified minorities and females must continue to be at the forefront of
management's human resource decisions. The effective performance management of our people
will ensure that our human resources can meet the challenges of our long term business goals.
Issue:
Ensure that highly skilled and motivated people are Identified, selected, trained and devei-
oped to lead In both today's and tomorrow's business environments.
Strategy:
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Through the use of valid selection and evaluation devices, human resources planning and
sophisticated
development programs, identify and prepare the company's future leadership to be able to deal with
tomorrow's opportunities and challenges.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
1992-1993
• Continue to implement the Center for
Leadership Effectiveness (CLE) as both a
selection tool for attending the Middle
Management Training Program as well as a
development tool for other middle manag-
ers. (1992-1993)
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• Continue Middle Management Training
Program (MMTP) III; start-up MMTP IV and
V for employees identified as successors to
key positions or below. (1992-1993)
• Continue to offer the Leadership
Development Program (LDP) for employees
at lower levels who have been identified as
successors or hipos (high-potential
performers). (1992-1993)
• Develop and implement the Employee
Assessment and Development Process
(EADP) for use in the LDP or for a stand-
alone development tool. (1992-1993)
• Research, develop and implement a pro-
gram of targeted development for high
potential minorities and females. (1992-
1993)
• Link succession planning to Upward Mobility
and Affirmative Action planning process and
expand the process to identify future job
requirements. (1992-1993)
1992-1996
• Develop a format for the integration of PM-
USA's succession plan with those of the
other companies in the Philip Morris family.
(1994-1996)
• Develop new approaches to in-house
executive development programs to include
cross-functional job assignments and/or
lateral moves. (1994-1996)
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1992-1996
• Emphasize continuous improvement by
mandating continuous learning as an
expectation for employees' initial assign-
ments through the executive level. (1994-
1996)
• Expand succession planning process to
identify future job requirements and better
prepare candidates for these future jobs.
(1994-1996)
• Expand and improve the sales training of the
Tobacco Sales Force. (1992-1996)
• Get a valid rigorous District Manager
(Tobacco Sales Force) selection process up
and running. (1992)
• Emphasize strategic planning, customer-
orientation and leadership training in all
Sales training programs. (1992-1996)
• Continue to work on the cultural change and
structural improvements throughout the
organization, in particular, Operations and
Sales. (1992-1993)
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Manufacturing Training Development
The increasing complexity of our work environment brought on chiefly by electronically-controlled,
high-speed technology has, in many cases, created a skills gap between the knowledge and skills
possessed by supervisors, operators, mechanics and craft personnel and the knowledge and skill
needs of the jobs they perform. This problem is expected to become more acute in the future. An
understanding of these deficiencies is essential to well-focused, cost-effective training
programstied
specifically to the needs. Our ability to address the skills gap also depends directly on the
quality of
the training we develop and the manner in which it is delivered.
Issue:
Selection and training of current and future work force (hourly employees and supervision)
Is critical to productivity Improvement.
Strategy:
Utilize job and skills analyses to identify skills gap and develop selection instruments and
training
programs to meet job needs and address deficiencies.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
• Develop and evaluate a career progression
ladder to aid recruitment and retention and
foster self-development and professionalism
of supervisors. (1992-1993)
• Establish current and future job
requirements and assess skill levels of
existing operators/mechanics. (1992-1993)
• Develop and implement a program leading
to improved communication and teamwork
on the factory floor. (1992-1993)
• Promote development of professional and
subject-matter expertise of training
instructors through cross-functional rotation,
career progression, and more on-the-job
follow-up and customer interface. (1992-
1993)
• Establish a system to provide for proper
allocation of training resources. (1992-
'1993)
1992-1993
• Implement a Systems Approach to Training
(SAT). This is an integrated and comprehen-
sive approach developed by an internal
technical training task force and outside Hay
consultants for identifying training needs and
evaluating/improving training programs.
(1992-1993)
• Develop and evaluate prototype training
program for hourly and first-line supervisory
personnel designed to enhance skills and
knowledge related to troubleshooting.
(1992-1993)
• As part of the Louisville Skills Enhancement
Training Program, develop and evaluate
prototype training program designed to
supplement skills and knowledge of existing
hourly and supervisory personnel and
assess cost-effectiveness of program with
the goal of extending results to other manu-
facturing locations. (1992-1993)
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1992-1996
• Determine current and future job require-
ments and skill levels of existing first-line
supervisors. (Ongoing)
• Critically evaluate/modify existing supervi-
sory training programs in all locations to
ensure that core skills as identified by job
analysis are included. (Ongoing)
• Modify/develop operator/mechanic selection/
training programs to ensure that they
address skill needs. (Ongoing)
• Continue efforts aimed at addressing current
and future skill needs of crafts. (Ongoing)
• Pursue competency-based evaluations of
craft personnel for major machine mainte-
nance programs. (Ongoing)
• Develop and evaluate new and better
training methods for craft personnel.
(Ongoing)
• Extend results of Troubleshooting Training
Program with the goal of improving the
troubleshooting performance of all supervi-
sory and hourly personnel involved in
manufacturing. (Ongoing)
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Total Compensation
During the 1992-1996 plan period, the key focus will be determining "Total Compensation" philoso-
phy, policy and programs which facilitate aggressive organizational change designed to attain long-
term business goals. These actions must be taken with consideration of internal forces that are
impacting our "total compensation" resources, as well as market issues affecting our competitive
position.
Issue:
Need for a "total compensation" phiiosophy.
Strategy:
Determine "Total Compensation Phifosophy"that is an appropriate mix of fixed and variable elements
of both cash compensation and benefits to facilitate accomplishment of our long term business goals.
Action Plan:
1992-1996
• Develop appropriate group to research total
compensation. (1992)
• Research and analyze the elements of total
compensation and where they stand com-
petitively (Benefits & Compensation)(fixed
vs. variable). (1992)
• Assess the mix of other relevant companies
and how the mix enhances achievement of
business goals. (1992)
• Develop specific total compensation models.
(1992)
• Finalize/obtain approval of "Total
Compensation" philosophy. (1992-1993)
• Develop communications on "Total
Compensation" philosophy for the
workforce. (1993)
• `Assure'Total Compensation" philosophy is
considered in the development and
execution of all Compensation and Benefit
programs. (1993+)
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Benefits
The cost of offering a comprehensive and competitive benefits program wili conti nue to rise
unabated.
Health care costs increased 14% between 1989-1990 and are estimated to rise another 22% in 1991
to approximately $105 million. In this escalating cost environment, we must meet the benefit needs
of a diverse workforce and be positioned to attract new talent, while working to control costs
within
planned parameters. Our benefit programs must continually be reviewed to assess their competitive
position with respect to internal and external constraints.
Government regulations, other operating company equity issues, and employee and company tax
effectiveness concerns are major issues which need to be affected in future benefit development
efforts.
issue:
The benefit package represents a significant cost and must be managed to ensure com-
petitiveness at a reasonable cost.
Strategy:
Evaluate and implement programs that provide cost effective benefits which are competitive and
address the needs of employees.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
1992-1993
• Implement Managed Care Plan; medical,
and psych/substance abuse provisions
effective 1/1/93 at:
-York Engineering - Williamsburg
-Louisville - Kentucky
-Tobacco Sales Force - National
-New York Office, PM-USA - New York
- Colonial Heights Packaging - Colonial
Heights, Virginia(1992)
• Implement Managed Care Plan for BCTWIU
employees (subject ;o negotiations/
ratification; will also cover lAM employees)
effective 1/1/93. (1992)
• Implement benefit related changes resulting
from contract negotiations/ratification for
BCTWIU and IAM effective throughout 1992.
(1992)
• Analyze and recommend changes to
salaried benefits based on impact of
negotiated benefits (effective dates to be
determined). (1992)
• Conduct post implementation review of
health care utilization resulting from
Managed Care Plan changes effective 4th
quarter 1992. (1992)
• Conduct/direct audit of Richmond Blue
Cross/Blue Shield health plan (medical,
dental, TPA vision) effective 2nd and 3rd
quarters 1992. (1992)
• Voice Response System - Determine
feasibility of voice enrollments effective 3rd
quarter 1992. (1992)
• Tesseract task force project,- Integrate
HRM/Payroll and Benefits effective 1992
and 1993. (1992)
• Survey salaried employees on issues
related to benefit offerings in the context of
flexible benefits. (1993)
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1992-1993
• Develop a PM-USA benefit philosophy
which will provide a framework for consider-
ation of total compensation issues. (1993)
• Address corporate issues pertaining to
Deferred Profit Sharing plan design. (1993)
1992-1996
• Implement a flexible benefit program. (1994-
1996).
• Develop autonomous PM-USA benefit
programs that reflect our operating company
needs. (1994-1996)
• Implement and communicate benefits
towards a market position at 75th percentile
of a select group of companies. (1992-1996)
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Compensation
During the plan period, the key focus for compensation will be the continued development and
refinement of programs that clearly link compensation to results against business goals. This must
be accomplished while assuring that competitive, aggressive pay policies are maintained to attract,
retain and reward the diversity of knowledge and skills required in our business.
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Issue:
Compensation programs must be competitive and aggressive to attract and retain the
knowledge and skilis needed in our business. Incentive plans must have a clear link to
business goais to develop an environment conducive to motivating employees and rewarding
desired results.
Strategy:
A multi-step strategy will be employed to:
• Develop overall pay policies and programs that provide a cohesive foundation for recruiting,
cross-
training, transferring and rewarding employees.
• Design and implement incentive compensation programs that motivate employees to achieve
business goals and reinforce those efforts.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
_Pay Policies
• Continue to streamline salary ranges and
merit guidelines. (1992)
• Complete the Richmond Lump Sum
program. (1992)
• Continue to focus merit program on
performance against standards. (1992)
1992-1996
Management Incentive Plan
• Implement a balance among financial,
strategic and personal goals for company,
department and individual incentive com-
pensation (IC)goals. (1992)
• Obtain feedback on the perceived
effectiveness and fairness of the IC goals
and program design. (1992)
• Assess impact of pav policies on key
technical groups, production and
technicians. (1992)
• Continue educating employees on
compensation goals and policies. (1992-
1993)
• Continue to improve the Sales Force pay
position. (1992-1993)
• Continue to obtain input on the effectiveness
of the program. (1992-1993)
• Enhance communications on IC program.
(1992-1993)
• Propose and implement any necessary
design modifications. (1992-1993)
• Assess impact of plan on improving com-
pany/department performance. (1993-1996)
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1992-1996
. Sales Incentive Plan
• Administer the first plan awards. (1992)
• Determine whether modifications are
required (targets, goals). (1992-1993)
• Obtain feedback on impact of program.
(1992-1993)
• Assess impact on company results. (1993-
1996)
Incentives for Professionals and Deaartments
• Conduct research on possible expansion of
incentives (e.g. Manufacturing). (1992)
• Determine appropriateness of incentives in
context of total compensation. (1992-1993)
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• Implement the new severance policies
across all PM-USA units. (1992)
• Assure job descriptions are current. (1992)
• Continue to evaluate the effectiveness of job
evaluation approaches. (1992-1993)
• Audit department job grades as appropriate.
(1992-1993)
• Study grade banding for management
positions. (1992-1993)
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Environmental Health & Safety
Comprehensive senior management supported Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) programs
maintain shareholder value by preventing/avoiding losses, controlling/reducing costs and
eliminating unnecessary risks. For example, well-planned procedures ensure that work is done
correctly the first time. Further, a well-managed program adds value by ergonomically designing
equipment and facilities to encourage maximum productivity and quality, while ensuring a safe
operation.
Nationally, environmental health and safety emphasis is expanding beyond traditional manufacturing
settings to include non-traditional work places where significant losses are occurring due to lack
of
attention.
Compared to Operations, the Sales Force loss experience is nearly two times higher for total
injuries
per 100 employees and fourtimes higherfor days lost from work per 100 employees. Total workers'
compensation cost per employee is approximately 36% higher. Nationally, just the opposite
experience occurs: in the nondurable goods industry, the wholesale trade sector experiences fewer
iossesthanthemanufacturingsector. The Operations EH&S program works. Overtheiastfiveyears,
total injuries and days away from work per 100 employees have decreased by 62% and 33%,
respectively.
Issue:
PM-USA needs to modify and expand its existing EH&S program Into a corporate program
encompassing all functional areas.
Strategy:
Establish environmental health and safety as a senior management responsibility. Develop a
corporate EH&S program for all functional areas, through the modification and extension of the
Operations program.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
• Issue senior management EH&S policy
statement. (1992-1993)
• Continue the Operations EH&S program.
(1992-1993)
• impiement EH&S program for Sales Force.
(1992-1993)
• Develop a well-defined and documented
workers' compensation and OSHA
recordkeeping program for the Sales Force.
(1992-1993)
1992-1993
• Develop and conduct formalized EH&S
training for all PM-USA functions. (1992-
1993)
• Develop a formalized ergonomics program
for all PM-USA functions that conforms with
guidelines proposed by OSHA. (1992-1993)
• Develop equipment ergonomic design
criteria. (1994-1996)
• Audit all PM-USA functions and report to
senior management. (1992-1993)
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Labor Relations
In addition to negotiating new selection procedures for critical jobs in Richmond and Louisville,
the
company has negotiated a three-year extension to the Long Term Agreement (LTA) with all its
BCTWIU bargaining units in conjunction with an economic settlement which will abate escalating
hourly compensation costs during the next three years. The LTA extension, which assures non-
interruption of production by BCTWIU employees through at least June of 1997, has not yet been
discussed with the Craft bargaining units. If the Craft bargaining units are unwilling to enter into
an
economic settlement which abates hourly compensation similar to the BCTWIU agreement, the
Company will need to defend its position in interest arbitration in 1992 and prepare a strike
contingency plan relative to its Craft employees for 1995.
Issue:
Positively impact operating costs directly attributable to hourly labor by Identifying and
developing capable employees forseiection to critical jobs, maximizing manpowerutiiization
through more efficient manning and work assignments, and ensuring hourly iaborsuppiy for
continuing operations.
Strategy:
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impiement and utilize recently negotiated internal selection systems; revise manning and job
responsibilities through discussions with Union leadership; administer existing labor agreements to
utilize manpower in the most efficient manner. Extend the LTA with all craft bargaining units or
have
a viable strike contingency plan in place prior to 1994.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
1992-1996
• Attempt to negotiate economic package and
LTA similar to BCTWIU with Craft unions.
Failing this, attempt to achieve a parity
economic package through interest arbitra-
tion. (1992-1993)
• Discuss manning and job assignment issues
with Richmond and Louisville BCTWIU.
(1992-1993)
• Discuss Cabarrus expansion job design and
manning with both BCTWIU and IAM. (1992-
1993)
• Develop and implement internal selection
systems for BCTWIU employees at all
locations. (1992-1993)
• Initiate communication process to focus
Company's long-term Labor Relations
objectives with Union leadership. (1992-
1993)
• Prepare a strike contingency plan if the LTA
is not extended with our Craft unions. (1992-
1996)
• Modify negotiating format to reduce potential
for whipsaw. (1992-1996)
• Identify and establish "core" and "secondary"
operations, jobs, and/or functions with
corresponding economic differentials. (1992-
1996)
• Evaluate LTA extension for 1995
negotiations. (1992-1996)
• Evaluate current job structure and design
relative to materials handling, equipment
operation, and line maintenance. (1992-
1996)
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1992-1996
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• Investigate the possibility of:
- Establishing pay for knowledge and/or line
of progression compensation systems.
(1992-1996)
- Establishing 6th and 7th day pay proce-
dures at all continuous operations. (1992-
1996)
- Expanding Statistical Process Control
(SPC)/Total Quality Management (TQM)
operating procedures at all operating
locations. (1992-1996)
- Directly linking Direct Profit Sharing
(DPS) distributions to marginal contribu-
tion of bargaining unit employees. (1992-
1996)
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Affirmative Action
As we move toward the year 2000, the work force is becoming increasingly diverse. Projections
indicate that over the next ten years, 85% of new entrants into the labor force will be minorities,
females and/or immigrants. Although we have been successful in hiring females and minorities into
entry level jobs, the upward mobility of these individuals is a continuing issue.
With changing work force demographics, on-going issues surrounding upward mobilityfor minorities
and females, cultural diversity and family/work life concerns will require action.
Issue:
Continuing changes In work force demographics are altering the culture and climate of the
work place and demand management's full attention to capitalize on our human resource
potential.
Strategy:
To accomplish this, athreefold strategywill be implemented. First, continue aggressive recruiting
and
development programs aimed at upward mobility gains. Second, develop and implement work/life
programs to enhance the partnership between the Company and its employees. Third, develop and
implement appropriate awareness, education and training programs.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
1992-1993
• Continue to introduce family /work life
programs that coincide with employees'
needs to balance their personal and
professional responsibilities. Establish pilot
child and elder care programs in Rich-
mond. Research the feasibility of program
expansion to other PM-USA locations.
(1992-1993)
• Develop and implement management
awareness/training programs and action
plans to comply with the Americans with
Disabilities Act and the 1991 Civil Rights
Act. (1992-1993)
• Continue ongoing diversity training pro-
grams for all PM-USA management.
Working closely with executive manage-
ment, develop and implement a compre-
hensive in-house program that addresses
the needs of Operations personnel. As-
sess the effectiveness of the New York
Office and Sales Force programs. (1992-
1993)
• Enhance communications of AA/diversity
efforts by introducing videos, brochures and
other visuals that reinforce our commitment
to work force partnering, family/work life
programs and legislative compliance. (1992-
1993)
1992-1996
• Utilizing identical timing sequence, tie
together the annual goal setting process for
Upward Mobility, Succession Planning and
Affirmative Action Planning as a joint
process. Involve appropriate management
and hold them accountable for plans and
results. Discuss succession plans, career
potential and development plans with
identified successors. (1992-1996)
- Provide development opportunities,
challenging assignments and high-visibility
projects for high potential minorities and
females. Routinely monitor the perfor-
mance of these individuals to ensure they
are being accurately appraised, using
uniform standards and criteria.
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• Ensure that opportunities arise to make
placements. (1992-1996)
- Implement an annual executive review of
grade 15+ employees and an annual
management review of grade 12-14
employees to determine relative strength
and projected contribution. Identify those
employees to be outplaced.
- Implement a formal outplacement program
to include counseling, communication, and
financial components.
• Continue to assess employee needs and
research program offerings to address
specific family/work life issues. Continue
participation in area family/work life consor-
tium groups. (1992-1996)
• Commit to external hiring at any level when
necessary to meet annual representation
and targets. (1992-1996)
- Devote adequate human and financial
resources to aggressively recruit minority
and female talent at all levels of the
organization.
- Ensure that MBA hiring reflects targeted
placement rate.
• Continue to strive for our long term desired
targets of 20% minority and 50% female
representation in all salaried grade group-
ings by 2010. (1992-1996)
• Commit resources to the educational
systems that provide talented candidates
and increased education/training for
employees. (1992-1996)
- Establish strong relationships with a small
number of excellent colleges and
universities that graduate minorities in the
disciplines for which we recruit. Provide
financial support, faculty exchange
programs, and internships in the
appropriate disciplines.
- Establish strong relationships with several
high schools in each of our locations.
Provide financial support and leadership
for programs that support our needs.
- Continue the onsite undergraduate and
graduate level programs for employees.
- Provide remedial education/training to our
employees on site, after work hours, free
of charge.
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Employment
We must increasingly use creative measures to stimulate career opportunities, to match employees
and candidates to those opportunities in ways that increase the probability of success and to
attract
high caliber candidates to our candidate pools. There is less opportunity in some functional areas .
than in the past within our managerial and professional ranks with which to attract ambitious, high
potential talent.
Issue:
Identify and attract high potential candidates and target them toward positions that will
enhance their probability of career success and insure/maximize their long term contributions
to the organization.
Strategy:
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Ensure that opportunities exist to promote and/or cross-train the most promising managerial and
professional talent. Improve recruiting and screening tools to increase the probability of
successful
placements.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
1992-1993
• Emphasize the longevity, profitability and
stability of PM-USA in all recruiting efforts.
(1992-1993)
• Continue to review managerial and
professional ranks and organization
structures with an eye toward creating
career opportunities and continuous
improvement. (1992-1993) ,
• Cite the many existing career development
and planning tools (MMTP, LDP, CLE,
Training Courses, Succession Planning,
etc.) in recruiting literature and efforts,
where appropriate. (1992-1993)
• Capitalize on career and succession
planning efforts when filling jobs internally.
(1992-1993)
• Continue to fill jobs internally when possible
an~Lwhen upward mobility goals can be met,
and recruit externally as necessary. (1992-
1993)
• Develop an employee referral system for
identification of qualified external candidates
(particularly minorities and females). (1992-
1993)
• Work with OMD to incorporate the PM-USA
Leadership Competency Model (for
directors) and the Middle Management
Competency Model (for managers) into
selection systems as appropriate. (1992-
1993)
• Refine hourly selection systems which will
maximize selection accuracy, defensibility,
efficiency and fairness. (1992-1993)
• Implement the (proposed) aid-to-education
program which will complement our campus
recruiting efforts. (1992-1993)
• Project hiring needs and match recruiting
and selection resources appropriately to
maximize hiring quality while minimizing cost
and response time. (1992-1993)
• Automate the employment process in a
manner that maximizes the utility of candi-
date information and minimizes administra-
tive expense, liability and response time.
(1992-1993)
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1992-1993
• Review relocation policy, procedure and
methodology across PM-USA (Operations,
Sales and New York Office) and implement
"best practices" as appropriate for each
location. (1992-1993)
1992-1996
• Work with Organization and Management
Development (OMD) to develop and
incorporate a "professional competency
model", a "supervisory competency model"
and an "administrative competency model"
into selection systems. (1994-1996)
• Continue to build on relationships with
universities which produce graduates whose
academic training is compatible with our
entry-level positions. (1992-1993)
• Target professional organizations,
conferences and colleges to increase
applicant flow. (1992-1993)
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During the plan period, Finance will work with other functional areas such as Operations, Market-
ing and Sales to ensure that PM-USA meets its quarterly and annual targets for income from
operations and cash flow. To help provide maximum flexibility to respond to marketplace oppor-
tunities, Finance will also work to eliminate unnecessary controls, streamline approval procedures
and establish a budgetary process which provides for more effective business management.
New financial measures will be developed and applied to the business as warranted to generate
better information for proper decision making and to help encourage fiduciary responsibility
throughout the organization.
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Activity-Based Accounting
in some instances, PM-USA engages in a business activity where the true costs are not fully
reflected
in reports. These underlying costs are often spread over other areas and lead to underestimating the
investment and activity necessary to conduct the specific activity.
Issue:
Identify all relevant costs which are a part of a specific business activity.
Strategy:
To employ activity-based accounting as a guide to modifying business practices which are not cost
effective for PM-USA. Finance's objective will be to institute at least five such costs studies in
1992
and build an activity-based cost system.
Action Plan
1992-1996
• Work with representatives from each of PM-
USA's functional areas to identify business
activities which may have significant hidden
costs.
• Prioritize the identified activities based on
the magnitude of the hidden costs.
• Assign a Finance representative to work
with a functional area representative who is
responsible for each identified activity.
• Determine the magnitude of the underlying
costs of each business activity.
• Develop recommenGations to modify the
activity to either reduce the underlying costs
or eliminate the activity.
This action plan will be implemented in 1992,
and subsequently will become an on-going
activity throughout the plan period.
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Establishing An Ownership Cufture
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Because the responsibility for financial control has historically resided largely within Finance,
there
has been a heavy reliance on transaction-based controls to manage our financial exposure and to
ensure that PM-USA's fiduciary responsibilities are met. These controls are manifested in tight
monetary approval levels for middle management, job order requests, purchase order controls and
comprehensive accounts payable procedures. Taken together, these controls are often viewed as
impediments to making and executing business decisions quickly, yet are necessary so long as
financial control remains largely a sole responsibility of Finance.
Issue:
Exercising financial control Is the responsibility of all employees, not just Finance.
Strategy:
To develop within PM-USA a stronger "ownership" culture where exercising internal financial control
is an accepted responsibility of all employees. The establishment of this culture will provide
middle
management with increased fiduciary responsibility.
Action Plan
1992-1996
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• Gain the acceptance and support of an
ownership culture within each functional
area of PM-USA. (1992)
• Provide guidance and procedures which
employees should use to ensure that proper
business controls are being utilized. (1992)
• Monitor business activities to determine if
the proper internal controls are being
employed within each functional area.
(1992-1996)
• Modify existing transaction-based controls to
reflect the' heightened awareness and
application of financial controls at the
business activity level. (1992-1996)
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INFORMATION SERVICES
The environment in which PM conducts business is not only changing rapidly, but also becoming
increasingly complex. To succeed, PM-USA must change with it. We must seek new volume
opportunities, act aggressively to pursue marketing and cost efficiencies, decentralize decision
making and compress decision windows. Most of the problems PM faces require broad, cross
functional solutions. To craft these strategies, PM is changing the way we do business by re-
engineering the business process of each functional area. Within this framework, the mission of the
Information Services (IS) department is to re-engineer the systems to supply all necessary informa-
tion to the new points of decision, at the time of decision, to change the way PM does business. As
a result, PM can "get it done" FASTER, BETTER, CHEAPER and pursue new business opportunities.
In their 1991 study of Information Services operations, A.T. Kearney found that department
capabilities and performance met the needs of today's environment as a high-quality, cost effective
providerof computing services. However, to meet planning period needs, Information Services needs
to utilize fully its existing strengths and build new skills. The Information Services organization
must
be repositioned to become a proactive partner with the business areas that are the users of
information technology. Information Services is committed to taking a more active role in
understand-
ing the "business" of its customers, and a commitment is needed from the business areas to play a
more active role in the decision process regarding the use of information technology. This will
allow
Information Services to become a value-added provider of strategic business systems.
Early inthe plan period, significant changes will be made to the Information Services
decision-making
process and a new organization put in place to facilitate change. Also, mechanisms must be put in
place that allow decision makers to more effectively match cost with benefit so that IS resources
can
be targeted to effectively support company strategies and minimize overall long term costs.
Some strategic projects to be implemented by Information Services over the plan period are:
• Reorganize IS resources based on a"Tomorrow" and "Today" focus. Planning and developing
tomorrow's needs will be the responsibility of Business Systems Planning groups that serve each
functional area. Today's day to day business needs will be handled by a separate group.
• Development of the "Decision Makers Information System" will focus on providing information
pertaining to Sales, Marketing, Manufacturing, and Finance. This system is not just data retrieval
but is designed to enhance the decision maker's application of resources.
• The Manufacturing Supply Chain project will eliminate multiple data entry and paper processing,
reduce inventories, and streamline production planning and scheduling.
• The Manufacturing Maintenance Management project will increase machine utilization by signifi-
cantly streamlining and expediting maintenance operations.
• Equip Field Sales Force with portable computers and establish a communication network to 2
expedite information flow. 4
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Restructure Resources and Decision-Making
At present, the Information Services department has significant strengths in the area of computer
operations and system delivery. However, planning and linkage with the business must be improved
in order to make "strategic" contributions to Company goals. To become strategic, IS must change
the decision process and proactively deal "up the organization" with management strategists. The
resulting partnership will drive the identification of systems opportunities and the assignment of
resources to specific initiatives. To achieve this, Information Services must have a strong planning
function to focus efforts on high value-added opportunities as well as flexibility in the systems
development area to efficiently move resources between projects that cross functional boundaries.
Issue:
Information Services needs to become more focused on strategic opportunities.
Strategies:
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• Forge strong linkage with key strategic decision makers by reorganizing IS department and
changing the decision process.
• Institute a decision process for information technology based on an integrated consideration of
total
Company costs and benefits.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
1992-1993
• Reorganize IS resources based on a
"Tomorrow" and "Today" focus. Planning
and developing tomorrow's needs will be the
responsibility of Business Systems Planning
(BSP) groups that serve each functional
area. Development resources will be
"pooled" in order to facilitate flexibility and
cross-functional synergies. Today's day to
day business needs will be handled by a
separate group. The organization will be
headed by a VP Information Services who
will ensure strategic and cross functional
integration.
• Develop a planning system that matches
project needs with appropriate resources.
This system (used by the VP Information
Services in working with the Steering
Committees) tracks progress of BSP project
development and benefit realization as well
as the cost effectiveness of ongoing comput-
ing.
• institute a system of charge-backs to ensure
that resources are targeted toward projects
with significant ROI and/or strategic value
and that overall long term costs are mini-
mized.
• Utilize Management Steering Committees
with accountability for setting IS develop-
ment priorities. An Executive Steering
Committee will be responsible for approval
of all major development efforts. Functional
Steering Committees will identify and
approve all intermediate level development
projects within their area and bring forward
any major projects to the Executive Commit-
tee for review and approval. Minor develop-
ment, maintenance and support will be done
on a first-in-first-out basis by resources
dedicated to each functional area. Level of
support resources will be negotiated annu-
ally and will be based on targets for project
turn-around.
1994-1996
• Continue to adjust and evolve organizational
processes and structures to maintain
strategic "fit" with changing Company goals
and objectives.
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Deliver Critical Information to the Point of Decision
Given the increasing complexity of the U.S. cigarette business environment, PM-USA is in the
process of changing its decision making to respond quickly to marketplace changes. This philosophy
is driving decision making further down the functional organizations and increasing inter-functional
dependencies.
Decentralized decision making requires more powerful tools to convert data into value added
information that can be easily accessed. These information systems must include drill-down
capability and decision support analytical tools that enable diverse functional users to quickly
diagnose problems and opportunities. This will result in betterdecision making and faster
marketplace
response.
PM-USA is a company within an industry that are both very rich in data resources. Competitive
advantage wi ll be achieved by the company that can access and analyze this data quickly, and
rapidly
implement programs against identified opportunities.
Issue:
To meet'the needs of an increasingly complex business and to improve our ability to supply
complete and accurate infonnation to decislon-makers throughout the organization on a
timely basis.
Strategy:
• Provide consistently designed application tools that allow line organization personnel to
directly
access and manipulate pertinent information without IS intervention.
• Provide Senior Management easy and timely drill-down access to key operational and market
information to support quick identification of problems/opportunities in an increasingly complex and
decentralized environment.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
1992-1993
• During this period, development of the
"Decision Makers Information System" will
focus on providing information pertaining to
Sales, Marketing, Manufacturing, and
Finance. This system is not just data re-
trieval but is designed to enhance the
decision maker's application of resources. It
will include "drill-down" access to PM sales,
manufacturing and "outside" data such as
Nielsen. Achieving this involves combining
drill-down information access and decision
support tools such as trend analysis, excep-
tion and cross-sectional analysis capabili-
ties. These tools will foster an integrated
view of Company information that allows
sharing among all components of the user
community to support more efficient man-
agement of increasingly complex and inter-
related business processes.
• Develop an integrated Manufacturing data
base and query tools to allow operational
information to be accessed directly by
Manufacturing personnel for more complete
and timely problem analysis and decision
making.
• Expand the reach of decision support tools
past the "staff" population to individuals in
line jobs in Manufacturing, Sales, and
Marketing to improve the quality and timeli-
ness of operational decisions and applica-
tion of resources. This will require modifica-
tion of existing systems' tools to promote
ease of use and development of delivery
platforms other than traditional office-based
workstations. Examples include Sales
Force Automation, Manufacturing Trouble
Call System, Maintenance Management
System, etc.
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1992-1993
• Design and implement tools to support a PM
Competitive Intelligence network to include a
document/image database and network
communication software.
1994-1996
• Incorporate information from other functional
areas into the Decision Makers Information
System.
• Enhance the Sales, Marketing and Manufac-
turing data bases with information from
operational systems and external data
sources.
• Continue to assess easy-to-use tools to
support the analytical and decision-making
process and provide on-going systems
support.
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Support Functional Re-Engineering and Business Expansion
As PM key functional areas continue to change in response to new business realities, it is key that
systems not only reflect new procedures, but also allow information to flow freely and quickly
across
functional areas. Many current systems were designed to serve needs within individual functional
areas at differing points in time. Information Services needs to exercise a strategic view across
functions and departments, helping the PM enterprise identify opportunities to reduce costs and
increase operational efficiencies by re-engineering existing business practices. This involves re-
examining not just individual systems but entire business processes.
Issue:
Partner with functional orgainzations In changing/re-inventing business processes to sig-
nificantly reduce cost, increase quality and expand revenue.
Strategies:
• Manage overall PM systems planning and development as an enterprise (as opposed to project)
process, to encourage overall efficiencies and reduced costs.
• Utilize technology solutions that promote ease of integration and build platforms that offer
commonality and synergy advantages.
• Facilitate change and marketplace response by reducing "cycle time" from point of decision to
implementation.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
• The Manufacturing Supply Chain project will
eliminate multiple data entry and paper
processing and significantly reduce invento-
ries. These systems will also streamline
material logistics, production planning and
scheduling so the right material is available
at the right time.
• The Manufacturing Maintenance Manage-
ment project will bring machine trouble call
history, machine diagrams, expert training
modules, parts ordering and preventive
maintenance techniques together at the
workstation on the production floor when
needed by operators and technicians. This
will increase machine utilization by signifi-
cantly streamlining and expediting mainte-
nance operations.
1992-1993
• The Cabarrus expansion project will focus
on upgrading and/or replacing existing
materials handling, process monitoring and
reporting systems to support the additional
capacity. In addition, the Direct Materials
Warehouse Management and Materials
Picking systems will be re-engineered to
support increased materials flow and
anticipated changes in cart-loading opera-
tions.
• Equip Field Sales Force with portable
computers and establish a communications
network to expedite information flow. These
will automate several administrative/report-
ing functions and also facilitate development
of new logistics that will permit:
- Targeted store level promotion/
marketing tactics.
- In-store Point of Sale display and
material order entry.
- Drop shipping Promotional and POS
material to stores through third parties.
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1992-1993
• Develop and implement a micromarketing
system by matching a store's location and
profile to the psychographic and demo-
graphic data of consumers in that stores'
geographic location. In conjunction with the
above Sales Force automation project, this
allows improved targeting and effectiveness
of promotional tools.
• Develop a database of wholesaler weekly
shipments of each individual brand packing
to individual retailer. When combined with
Sales Force Automation tools and the
micromarketing project, this database will
supply the Company with the critical
information necessary to more pro-actively
increase and manage volume. In addition,
we will have a more efficient and complete
early warning system for competitive activity
and a mechanism to measure consumer
response.
• Rewrite the Customer Billing system to tie in
section sales personnel with customer
backorder and allocation issues. This will be
integrated with Accounts Receivable and
Sales reporting systems to support timely
implementation and analysis of more flexible
and targeted volume management pro-
grams.
• Institute activity-based accounting systems,
•bottom up" capital forecasting and project
level budgeting systems. The latter is
particularly important in re-engineering Field
Sales section office budget accountability.
• Develop new systems for ordering, ware-
housing and deiivering Point of Sales and
Promotional material to stores. These
systems will likely be paired with those of
vendor partners who will drop ship to
retailers.
• Develop a new Leaf Management system
that tracks purchases during buying season,
enabling buyers to fine tune strategy on a
weekly basis.
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1994-1996
• Partner with Finance and Employee Rela-
tions functions to redefine employee infor-
mation and compensation systems. This will
not only eliminate duplicate effort and
streamline processes such as payroll,
benefits administration and employee
information processing, but also allow
renegotiation of benefit programs with labor
unions.
• Develop tools that will re-engineer the role of
the Field Section offices. The resulting
changes in business procedures are de-
signed to reduce administrative burdens,
leverage key account selling and improve
field management through easy-to-access
value-added information.
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The pace of technology advancement is so rapid that, according to some experts, it is recreating
itself
less than every three years. Given the reliance of the PM re-engineering process on technology and
systems, it is critical that Information Services stay on the forefront of technological change to
ensure
appropriate service levels. New technology can deliver expanded services or increased capacity at
lower unit costs. Also, manual functions made superfluous by new technology can be eliminated.
Information Services is committed to being the low cost provider of computing services. We will
continue to pursue new technologies that can deliver expanded services or increased capacity at
lower unit costs.
issue:
Maintain a commitment to consistently re-engineer IS operational systems to drive down
costs and Improve reliability and service levels.
Strategies:
• Aggressively drive our primary vendors to partner with us to improve operational efficiencies
• Continually scan the market for new technologies and processes that can be applied at PM-USA.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
• Enhance data and voice communication
networks to improve performance, reliability,
and cost effectiveness.
• Establish technical environment support for
24 hour, 7 day/week operation of the IBM
mainframes. implement one call "Help"
capability and upgrade the backup and
recovery process for storage devices to
promote continuous availability of data.
• Extend Computer Aided Software Engineer- -
ing tools to improve programmer productivity
in the DEC and workstation environments.
• Develop systems that permit electronic data
interchange (EDI) with PM's suppliers and
customers.
1994-1996
• Evaluate new computing technologies and
develop the most cost effective approach to
satisfy business demands for the next five
years, such as:
- The cost/benefit of consolidating all
Richmond Data Centers into one
location.
- The newly emerging fields of object
oriented programming and parallel
processing.
- Cost savings available through use of
CD storage (eliminate microfiche) and
optical scanning technology (avoid
manual entry of financial documents).
- Integrating imaging technology into our
systems.
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Redeveloping IS Human Resources
Nurturing the business evolution of the reorganized IS department will require significant new
initiatives that support the redevelopment of our human resources. Whereas past needs required
specialized expertise in specific systems and programming approaches, tomorrow's opportunities
will be met by forming diverse work teams composed of PM employees and vendor partners.
Therefore, we need to develop a broader skill base among our employees by building on the current
portfolio of skills and experiences, cultivating greater understanding of PM's strategies, and
developing new skills.
Issue:
Information Services needs to develop its employees to meet future technological needs.
Strategies:
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• Develop programs to familiarize IS employees with PM strategies and their resulting missions.
• Use skill base development programs and job rotation to develop a flexible work force.
Action Plan:
1992-1993
1994 -1996
• Institute quarterly planning meetings and
workshops for IS employees to ensure
understanding of the major strategies and
tactics of each functional area and expecta-
tions for IS support.
• Facilitate intra-IS communication through
regular interchange meetings between key
BSP, development and operation staff.
These are designed to facilitate cross
pollenization of ideas and avoid duplication.
• Develop training programs customized for
unique needs of Business Systems Planning
groups and the operations team. BSP
training will emphasize selling, negotiating,
business management and "imagineering"
skills. Operations training will focus more on
building technological skills that support day
to day computing needs. These will be
supplemented by a new Performance
Appraisal/Development process that helps
individuals build'a wide portfolio of skills and
experiences.
• Establish policies for the proper mix of PM
employees, internally contracted program-
ming consultants and consultants from
vendor partners.
• Institute a program of job rotation not only
between BSP and operations groups, but
also between Information Services and its
functional user groups.
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LEGAL
As the industry leader, PM-USA will continue to be targeted by competitors, anti-smoking forces and
the government. The competitive business environment and hostile social climate expected during
the plan period will present challenges to every part of our business. The Legal Department will be
instrumental in molding PM-USA into a vehicle able to adapt to meet those challenges.
Key areas to be addressed by Legal over the plan period are:
• Legal will continue to aggressively defend all product liability actions against the Company.
• Increased regulation will require strict compliance measures. Environmental issues, lobbying
issues, sales and marketing practices will all be addressed to ensure good business practices and
strict compliance with applicable regulations.
• PM-USA's marketing activities may increase exposure under existing laws and face increased
legislative scrutiny. We will assume an active role in the creation of marketing programs and take
offensive action on legislative proposals when appropriate.
• Legal will become involve at the earliest stages of projects to minimize laterintervention and
provide
legal direction for emerging issues.
• The social and political impact of the ETS issue will become more apparent during the plan
period.
We will work to minimize restrictive measures and to accommodate smokers.
• PM-USA's complex business environment mandates legal involvement in daily activities. We will
continue to provide legal guidance and support for PM-USA's daily activities.
• Litigation will be pursued where necessary to protect trademark and patent positions. Legalwill
also
refine and administer the PM-USA crisis management plan and train all relevant personnel in
preparation for unanticipated events.
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Product Liability Claims
For more than 35 years the courts have been addressing the issue of cigarette manufacturers'
liability
for the alleged health risks of smoking. The industry has never settled any of these suits and has
never paid any plaintiff damages for such claims. It is imperative that we defend the Company
vigorously and continue to strengthen our position in the courts. In early 1992 the Supreme Court
will rehear Cipollone. If there is an adverse decision, we may see an increase in the number of case
filings.
Additionally, there is now a pending ETS case in the U.S. During the plan period we may see
increased attention to ETS liability issues. As of November 1991 there were 51 product liability
cases
pending against the industry, 22 of which are against PM-USA.
Issue:
Protect the Company from product liability claims.
Strategy:
Our dual strategy will continue to be to defend all product liability actions aggressively and seek
legislative relief through tort reform. PM-USA has assumed a more active role in the industry's tort
reform project overthe past year and the Legal Department will continue to support that role and
will
address the issue in other forums.
Action Plan:
1992-1996
• Defense of all cases.
• Develop expert witnesses.
• Train defense counsel.
• Establish tort reform goals.
• Review political contributions.
• Advise on lobbying/reporting require-
ments.
• Civil Justice Reform Project. We will
be actively involved in this effort, a part
of the White House Competitiveness
Council.
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Anti-trust and Compliance Issues
The coming years will see increased focus on environmental issues ranging from solid waste to
source control. Working with Operations we have begun an extensive compliance audit process
designed to ensure compliance with all applicable environmental requirements in our plant
facilities,
and to point out procedures for continued vigilance in our attention to these issues.
The competitive market will encourage aggressive action on our part to secure the success of our
premium brands. Our efforts to maintain a competitive edge, especially at retail will be closely
monitored. It will be necessary to develop strategies to guide ourbusiness objectives and to
maximize
opportunities. PM-USA personnel will need to address topics which may raise anti-trust and
compliance issues.
A number of states have enacted legislation effective in 1992, which will change the regulations
applicable to gifts and honoraria for elected officials. We are implementing procedures to address
the impact of those changes and will work closely with Corporate Affairs in 1992 to ensure
compliance
with a prudent interpretation of all such regulations.
Issue:
Highly regulated areas are at risk for attack by government, competitors and anti-tobacco
forces.
Strategy:
Educate PM-USA employees; implement procedural remedies to minimize exposure.
Action Plan:
1992-1996
• Support and participate in environmental
review process.
• Conduct educational seminars:
- Anti-trust
- Bring education/compliance program to
SSD level
- Include new positions (Trade Marketing)
in seminars
- Ethics laws
- Document Issues
• Work with auditors to design effective
controls.
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Marketing Restrictions
Duringthe initial phases of the plan period, a major effort will be made by the Marketing, Sales,
Trade
Marketing and Legal Departments to introduce decentralization and account partnering into the
company's promotional programs in order to provide a localized market response to consumers and
to maximize the effectiveness of promotions. The Trade Marketing Group was formed to facilitate this
strategy. The strategy contemplates increased promotional flexibility, and as a result may increase
the risk of advertising or promotional infractions. At the same time and throughout the plan period,
the Corporate Affairs group will be confronted by local governing bodies' efforts to impose
restrictions
on all aspects of our business (vending machines, advertising, sampling and other promotional
activities). The combination of these two factors will demand increased attention to a variety of
local
market and legal requirements.
In addition to an increased focus on the local level, attempts to restrict our business will
continue in
broader forums. We anticipate recent FTC activity in the area of event promotions to spur greater
scrutiny of our practices in this area. The Legal Department has formed a Task Force consisting of
senior representatives of Legal, Corporate Affairs, Marketing, Washington Relations and outside
counsel to review the regulation of our industry, evaluating marketing practices in light of the
FTC's
recent activities. We expect that Task Force to be active in the beginning of the plan period.
The redirection of advertising efforts into direct mail activities will require support from the
Legal
Department in the areas of legal compliance, organizational support and the enforcement of industry
voluntary codes. We will continue to work closely with the Marketing and Corporate Affairs groups
responsible for programs which encourage direct consumer contact to clarify the practical
application
of stated industry positions.
Issue:
Our marketing activities may Increase our exposure under existing laws and face Increased
legislative scrutiny.
Strategy:
Assume an active role in the creation of marketing programs; educate PM-USA personnel on program
implementation; take offensive action on legislative proposals when appropriate.
Action Plan:
1992-1996 1992-1996
• Create effective promotional programs to
take advantage of local marketing activities
and maintain competitive advantage. • Develop and support arguments to manage
restrictions at all levels.
• Provide guidelines to sales force on local
• Task forces: Form new task force consisting
of Legal, Corporate Affairs and Trade
Marketing representatives to guide local
sales activity. Participate in existing task
force on industry regulation. level.
• Conduct compliance seminars.
• Protect proper use of our trademarks.
• Added support to Direct Mail.
• Support for proactive legislative proposals.
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Increased Participation Within and Outside the Company
To support a complex business environment the Company recognizes the need forgreater exchange
among its many components. We will participate in a number of cross functional teams to anticipate
and address issues arising in the business areas, contribute to the creation of sound programs,
speed
the process of review and affect cost savings when possible. The Legal Department currently
contributes to a number of Task Forces consisting of lawyers from the operating companies.
Participation inthese groups affects cost savings, th rough both purchasing synergies and by
reducing
the need for outside counsel involvement. It also has the added advantage of broadening the
knowledge base available to clients and allowing for an exchange of ideas among operating
companies.
Issue:
Delayed legal invoivement can have a negative Impact on timely and efficient work proce-
dures.
Strategy:
The Legal Department will become involve at the earliest stages of projects to minimize later
intervention and provide legal direction for emerging issues. In addition, Legal Department members
will seek out and become personally active in associations that offer us the opportunity to further
the
Company's goals and provide a forum for the Company's positions.
Action Plan:
1992-1996
• Participate in cross functional teams.
• Contribute to inter-company task forces.
• Participate in outside associations.
• Attend client staff/project planning meetings.
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Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS)
The Legal Department is currently directing a coordinated effort to manage the world-wide ETS issue.
In the United States we are currently fighting restrictions on when and where consumers can smoke.
Internationally, the focus on indoor air quality represents an opportunity for us to put
environmental
tobacco smoke in the proper perspective.
Issue:
The environmental tobacco smoke Issue introduces the potential for increased regulation of
smoking.
Strategy:
It is our goal to develop programs generating a more balanced media presentation of the ETS issue
and to define and promote the issue in specific targeted areas. We are actively communicating our
concerns over the use of poor science and the politicization of science to the government and the
public.
Action Plan:
1992-1996
• Prepare response to OSHA RFI.
• Establish contact with other industries at risk
for regulation.
• Examine legal implications of "Group A".
• Develop indoor air company-wide policy.
• Develop expert witnesses.
• Continue review of internal publications.
• Prepare law review articles or other legal
publications.
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Support Daiiy Activities of the Company
The Legal Department is committed to protecting the Company's traditional way of doing business
and preparing it for the challenges that the social climate and business environment will present in
the coming years. We expect to continue to do so without increasing our use of outside resources.
Issue:
Our complex business environment mandates legal Involvement In daiiy activities.
Strategy:
Continue to provide legal guidance and support for PM-USA daily activities in a timely and cost
effective manner.
Action Plan:
1992-1996
• Provide full legal support to new product
launches.
• Contract production.
• Develop form contracts where appropriate.
• Support technological solutions to competitive
goals.
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• Advise re: lobbying registration and reporting.
• Structure sound marketing and sales programs.
• Continue timely review of advertising and pro-
motional programs.
• Review copy for PM publications and presen-
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Protection of Technologies, Products, and Practices
The Legal Department is positioned to secure legal protection for various facets of our business. It
is our goal to provide for the protection of our technologies by procuring patents, and we will
protect
our trademarks from unauthorized use. it is also necessary to protect the position of our brands and
the integrity of our advertising by challenging competitors' claims.
Our business practices in the Government Affairs area will receive our full support and attention to
protect the Company from any violations or potentially embarrassing attention. We will encourage
good management practices, good record keeping and the proper treatment of Company records
through various educational and practical programs. We will identify high risk areas or practices
for
alleged violations of legal guidelines or company policy regarding work conduct and recommend
strategies to avoid negative incidents. Where necessary we will extend the scope of review to
include
work generated by consultants, in order to avoid inappropriately written or ili-conceived goals. We
will continue to direct the Crisis Management program and provide training for the Crisis Response
Team and Screening Committee members.
Issue:
Our technologies, products and practices are vulnerable to competitors and anti-tobacco
forces, presenting the risk of business loss or negative public relations.
Strategy:
Continue to provide patent and trademark support; direct preparedness programs to protect our
interests.
Action Plan:
1992
• Enforce records management policy imple-
mentation.
• Widen scope of review in Consumer Research.
• Conduct training sessions for members of the
Crisis Response Team, Screening Committee
and their back-ups.
• Expand training to all relevant personnel who
may receive product-related information as to
the proper handling and dissemination of the
information.
1993-1996
• Address competitive claims.
• Protect ourtechnologywith patents and patent
enforcement.
• Protect our trademarks.
• Continue administering the crisis management
plan and training of the Crisis Response Team
members.
• Schedule regular Screening Committee meet-
ings to refine existing procedures.
• Assess and finalize Recall Plan.
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