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JT will launch Ploom TECH in the Tokyo metropolitan area from end of June 2017
Ploom TECH and 3 Types of "MEVIUS for Ploom TECH"
To be launched at "Ploom Shops" and certain tobacco stores
in the Tokyo metropolitan area from June 29, 2017
Tokyo, May 23, 2017 --- Today, Japan Tobacco Inc. (JT) (TSE: 2914) announces the launch of the Ploom TECH tobacco vapor(*1) device and three types of "MEVIUS for Ploom TECH" tailor-made tobacco capsules. The products will be released in the Tokyo metropolitan area in stages, firstly at dedicated "Ploom Shops" from June 29 and then at certain tobacco stores from July 10.
Through the innovative and proprietary "tobacco vapor technology", Ploom TECH allows consumers to enjoy tobacco vapor without combusting tobacco leaves or heating them directly. It has been received well from consumers since its launch at certain stores(*2) in Fukuoka city and nationwide via a specialized Ploom online shop in March, 2016.
Now, as the first step towards further expansion of its sales areas, it will be launched gradually at "Ploom Shops" and certain tobacco stores in the Tokyo metropolitan area. For the purchase of Ploom TECH starter kit(*3) in those stores, online reservations(*4) will be required in advance, while the tobacco capsules will be available without reservations.
Several "Ploom Shops" will be open in the Tokyo metropolitan area
From June 29, JT will sell Ploom TECH at several "Ploom Shops", where consumers can learn about the unique concept of Ploom TECH. These will be in key locations in the Tokyo metropolitan area such as Ginza and Shinjuku.
Ploom TECH will be available at nearly 100 tobacco stores in six districts of Tokyo
From July 10, Ploom TECH will be launched at nearly 100 tobacco stores in six districts of Tokyo (Chiyoda-ku, Chuo-ku, Minato-ku, Shibuya-ku, Shinagawa-ku and Shinjuku-ku).
JT continues to strive for expansion of its production capacity as the first priority in order to expand sales areas gradually in anticipation of nationwide launch in the first half of 2018.
With respect to the specialized Ploom online shop(*5), JT will resume the sales of the Ploom TECH starter kit through a lottery system from June 29.
By offering a wide range of choices to meet evolving consumers' preferences and providing consumers with even greater satisfaction, JT is aiming to be the leader in the tobacco vapor products market inJapan.
- (*1) Our company refers to the mist like substance that contains ingredients delivered from tobacco leaves as "tobacco vapor".
- (*2) Nearly 900 stores
- (*3) Ploom TECH starter kit is composed of a battery, USB docking station(charger), AC adapter and carry case.
- (*4) Advance reservations will be accepted at the related webpage of the Ploom brand website (ploom.jp).
- (*5) The specialized Ploom online shop is conducted by our subsidiary, M&S forefront (shop.ploom.jp).
About Ploom TECH
Ploom TECH provides a new way to enjoy tobacco by the innovative and proprietary "tobacco vapor technology". It allows consumers to enjoy clear tobacco taste without combusting tobacco leaves or heating them directly. Since there is no combustion, its vapor does not produce tobacco smoke smell, or ash, helping to avoid annoying those nearby. JT expects it can contribute to realize a society where smokers and non-smokers can coexist harmoniously.
Product information of the Ploom TECH
| Device | Launched | Suggested Retail Price(yen) |
|---|---|---|
| Ploom TECH starters kit* (with Carry case) | March, 2016 | 4,000 |
- * Tobacco capsules for Ploom TECH are sold separately.
| Tobacco capsule* | Launched | Price (yen) |
|---|---|---|
| Mevius Regular For Ploom TECH | March, 2016 | 460 |
| Mevius Cooler Green For Ploom TECH | March, 2016 | 460 |
| Mevius Cooler Purple For Ploom TECH | March, 2016 | 460 |
- * Five tobacco capsules and one cartridge are included.
About tobacco vapor of Ploom TECH
The liquid contained in the cartridge generates the vapor by heating. The vapor passes through the tobacco capsule and becomes the tobacco vapor of Ploom TECH.
Features of product
・Clean: No tobacco smoke smell and no influence on air quality in relation to smoking since there is no combustion or direct heat of tobacco leaves.
・Clear: JT original technology realizes a clear taste
・Convenient: It is activated simply by inhaling, making it possible to enjoy the experience immediately and at any time
Research data regarding smell and indoor air quality
Data is available on the RETHINK TOBACCO website (http://jtrethink.jp/).
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Japan Tobacco Inc. is a leading international tobacco company. Its products are sold in over 120 countries and its globally recognized brands include Winston, Camel, Mevius, LD and Natural American Spirit. With diversified operations, JT is also actively present in pharmaceuticals and processed foods. The company's revenue was ¥2.143 trillion (US$19,703 million(*)) in the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016.
- * Translated at the rate of ¥108.78 per $1