It should come as no surprise to know that the tobacco industry is a big business, which rakes in billions of dollars each and every year. Over the years, various regulations have completely changed the tobacco industry, but there is something else that has revamped the industry even further.
Technology has played a vital role in shaping big tobacco and making it into something totally different than it was ten or twenty years ago. And of course, technology will continue to change tobacco in the future. You’ll find out more below.
Advertising Changes
The advertising strategies of tobacco companies have changed substantially over the years. At one time, tobacco was advertised on magazines and even television. That all changed when the Federal Communications Commission opted to ban these advertisements. In the 21st century, big tobacco has found a gateway directly to the consumer thanks to the Internet. Now, big tobacco has decided to target consumers through social media and even email marketing.
When visiting a social media network or a related website, it is almost certain you’ll see some type of advertisement for tobacco. This is especially true, if you’ve searched for tobacco related terms or have browsed related websites in the past.
Additional Regulations
In 2009, another major curveball was thrown to the tobacco industry. During this year, the United States government made it illegal for tobacco companies to create cigarettes with different flavors, such as peanut butter or vanilla. This is one of the main reasons many consumers have made the shift to e-cigarettes. This specific form of smoking has remained untouched by such regulations. Today, it is possible to find e-cigarettes in a wide assortment of flavors.
As for conventional forms of tobacco, they’re no long able to use the technology, which allows them to create a wide variety of flavors. This is yet another way traditional tobacco is being crushed by higher tech alternatives.
The Rise Of The E-Cigarette
Finally, enhancements in technology have led to the creation of the e-cigarette. E-cigs have increased substantially in popularity and this trend is likely to continue well into the future. This is not a coincidence. In fact, there are several factors at play here. Celebrities have gotten involved with e-cigs and now actively advertise these products. This will undoubtedly help to increase their popularity. At the same time, a major marketing blitz has taken place regarding the health advantages of the e-cigarette.
It is widely known that the e-cig is a much healthier alternative to tobacco. This has forced consumers to make the switch.
E-Cig Vendors Take Over The Internet
While there are only 3 or 4 big tobacco companies, the e-cig industry is far more competitive. E-cig vendors have truly taken over the Internet. There are hundreds of vendors peddling e-cigs online and many more than offer eliquid. It is almost impossible to purchase cigarettes online and this too will lead to a steady decline in the popularity of conventional tobacco. E-cigs are more readily available, healthier, and available in more flavors. Thanks to this and thanks to technology, the e-cigarette could overtake traditional tobacco in the years to come.