PLANS to outlaw branded cigarette packaging in Britain are hanging over Imperial Tobacco Group Plc as the company clings onto its investment-grade rating after announcing US$7bil of debt-financed acquisitions.
Forcing companies to sell cigarettes in plain packs could undermine profits by making it hard to raise prices at a time when global tobacco consumption is falling, according to Moody’s Investors Service and Fitch Ratings. Health Minister Jane Ellison said in April branded cigarettes could be banned as soon as next year.
Already a subscriber? Log in.
Limited time offer:
Just RM5 per month.
Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.
Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
