The deal is expected to spark further consolidation, such as a reunification of Philip Morris with Altria, analysts said. Reynolds' Vuse e-cigarette is the top selling vapor product in US chain stores tracked by Nielsen. Philip Morris, maker of Marlboro, has spent more than US$3 billion in recent years on research, development and production of cigarette alternatives. Philip Morris sells its iQOS product in 10 test markets. Philip Morris hopes to begin that process by the end of the year.

Source: The Edge Markets October 26, 2016 03:56 UTC