Reynolds American

One of the city's signature companies could be picked up by an overseas competitor.

Layoffs are expected at ITG Brands, the company that bought Lorillard's cigarette production plant last year. ITG won't say how many jobs will be cut, or give a timeline.  

Winston-Salem-based Reynolds American says it's sold the international rights to it's Natural American Spirit brand.

The $27.4 billion dollar deal that joined Reynolds American Inc. and Lorillard became final last week.

This was a big year for corporate mergers, with $3 trillion worth of deals announced worldwide. Analysts say the strong acquisitive trend is expected to continue into next year.

Until now, Reynolds employees have been able to light up at their desks. But come January, workers will have to either go outside or use specially equipped smoking rooms.

The Imperial Tobacco Group has selected Greensboro as the headquarters location for a new company it is forming in anticipation of the Reynolds American/Lorillard merger.

Reynolds American will end smoking in its headquarters in Winston-Salem. The maker of Camel and Winston cigarettes will join most American companies with this ban. 

 

A national campaign is calling on retailers to end tobacco sales. The move comes in the wake of CVS Pharmacy's historic decision last month to stop selling tobacco products.

The National School Boards Association cut their ties with Reynolds Tobacco.