As an expert sommelier and brewer, I don't typically deal with cigarettes, but I can certainly provide some information about the brand Newport. Newport is an American brand of menthol cigarettes that has been around for quite some time. It was originally created by the Lorillard Tobacco Company in 1957, but in recent years, ownership of the brand has changed hands.
In 2015, the R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company acquired the Lorillard Tobacco Company, which included the Newport brand. This acquisition was a major deal in the tobacco industry, as it consolidated two of the largest tobacco companies in the United States. As a result of the acquisition, R. J. Reynolds became the second-largest tobacco company in the country, behind only Altria (formerly known as Philip Morris).
The acquisition of Newport by R. J. Reynolds was not without controversy. The deal faced scrutiny from antitrust regulators, who were concerned about the potential for reduced competition in the tobacco industry. In order to gain approval for the acquisition, R. J. Reynolds agreed to divest several brands, including Kool, Salem, and Winston, to Imperial Tobacco Group. This was done to maintain competition and prevent a monopoly in the menthol cigarette market.
From a personal standpoint, I must admit that I am not a fan of cigarettes, especially menthols. I find the strong menthol flavor to be overpowering and unpleasant. However, I understand that there are individuals who enjoy smoking and have their own preferences when it comes to brands and flavors.
It is worth noting that the acquisition of Newport by R. J. Reynolds is just one example of the consolidation that has occurred in the tobacco industry in recent years. The industry has been facing numerous challenges, including declining smoking rates and increased regulation. In response to these challenges, companies have sought to streamline their operations and cut costs through mergers and acquisitions.
While I may not have personal experience with Newport cigarettes, I can provide some insight into the ownership of the brand. The R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company acquired Newport as part of its larger acquisition of the Lorillard Tobacco Company in 2015. This acquisition was a significant event in the tobacco industry and resulted in R. J. Reynolds becoming the second-largest tobacco company in the United States.