RAI Unveils Four “Truly Game-Changing Innovations” in Vapor
Originally published in Convenience Store News
Reynolds American Inc. (RAI) offered a sneak peek at the next generation of VUSE vapor products during its Investor Day, November 15, 2015.
"The vapor category has brought excitement to our industry and is still very early on in its lifecycle," said Debra Crew, president and chief operating officer of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. "Everyone is wondering what is going on with vapor, but we are still bullish on this category."
Vapor is second only to cigarettes in preference among adult tobacco consumers, Crew noted, and more than 58 percent of adult smokers have tried vapor products. However, Crew also said that while adults are interested in vapor products, reality has often fallen short of expectations.
Brice O’Brien, Executive Vice President, consumer marketing for R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co.. said "Adult tobacco consumers are looking for a vapor experience that delivers the performance and satisfaction of a tank, with the simplicity of a cig-alike. And that's what the next generation of VUSE will deliver.”
The next generation of VUSE vapor products will include:
VUSE Connect: Bluetooth and smart technology that works with the VUSE app to check battery and cartridge status, and prevent unauthorized use with child-lock settings.
VUSE Fob: Uses existing VUSE cartridges that retract into the unit, which has a screen to display battery and cartridge status levels. It also works with the VUSE app to allow the user to enable child-lock settings and track cartridge usage.
VUSE Port: Liquid tank system that uses a Dock & Lock system to refill the device. The closed system prevents users from opening the top or the tank. To refill, the port and bottle must be locked together.
VUSE Pro: Closed cartridge system that provides the performance of a tank system in an easy-to-use, cartridge-based format.
Vuse Port will be released in February of 2016, and will be available in eight flavors with three nicotine strengths. VUSE Connect was launched online in November, 2015. More details on the launch dates of the products will be made available in early 2016.
RAI's R.J. Reynolds Vapor Co. has also added four new flavors to their vapor products: Crema, Chai, Berry and Mint.
"We are willing and able to responsibly compete in all areas of the vapor category," Crew said. "We think our next-generation products have what consumers are looking for: superior craftsmanship, superior performance, [and] the convenience of a cig-alike with the performance of a tank."
Read the full article here. Kress, Melissa. "RAI Gives Sneak Peek of VUSE's Next Generation."Csnews.com. Convenience Store News, 16 Nov. 2015. Web. 7 Dec. 2015.