UK’s leading tobacco manufacturer, Imperial Tobacco, has announced the launch of a new Crushball Cigarillo variant from its JPS Players brand to help retailers cater for consumers seeking out nicotine solutions in the wake of the menthol ban.

JPS Players Crushball Cigarillo, comprises an American blend tobacco, wrapped in a natural tobacco leaf, featuring a menthol crushball within the filter that can be contained within or smoking as a standard cigarillo.

Chris Street, market manager UK at Imperial Tobacco, said: “When the menthol ban hit the market, many shoppers were left disappointed that their product of choice was no longer available.

“This new solution from one of our leading brands will help bridge the gap left by the ban with a product that benefits from crushball technology to deliver a fresh menthol flavour that will appeal to these shoppers.

“Value for money remains a major trend within the tobacco category with many adult smokers seeking out the lowest out of pocket spend possible.

“However, brand loyalty is also extremely high and shoppers don’t want to compromise on quality. With JPS Players positioned as the No.1 FMC brand in terms of market sharei, the launch of our Crushball Cigarillo variant addresses both of these needs with a price marked pack that offers shoppers the visible value they are looking for, from a well-known brand they can trust.”

The JPS Players Crushball Cigarillo is available in stores now, with packs of 10 at a RRP of £4.20* in a price marked pack.

* Retailers are free at all times to determine the selling prices of their products.