JT to Launch "Seven Stars Black Charcoal Menthol Box" Introducing New Charcoal Filter Technology

Source from:  Japan Tobacco inc 06/19/2009

Japan Tobacco Inc. (JT) (TSE: 2914) today announced the launch of "Seven Stars Black Charcoal Menthol Box" scheduled for nationwide release in early August 2009, in alignment with the company's aim to enhance brand equity in the Japan market. The product applies a brand new technology for charcoal filters that does not diminish the flavor of menthol in the cigarette.

Conventional charcoal filters have become popular as they absorb unpleasant tastes and bring out the flavor of the cigarette itself. But when charcoal filters are applied to menthol cigarettes, much of the menthol component is also absorbed before smoking. The charcoal used in the new filters utilizes a special membrane technology that inhibits the menthol component of cigarettes from being absorbed before being smoked. In addition, when the cigarette is smoked, the filter's membrane breaks, due to a change in the humidity of the airflow, and the result combines the reduction of unpleasant flavors thanks to the charcoal filter, with a clearer and more pleasant menthol taste. Seven Stars was first introduced in 1969, making this year the brand's 40th anniversary. Seven Stars was the first JT product to use charcoal filters, and the brand represents a number of the company's core products, including "Seven Stars" which performed as the best-selling product in Japan for the fiscal year that ended March 31, 2009(*1). "Seven Stars Black Charcoal Menthol Box" is being introduced as the newest member of the Seven Stars family, and the company will continue to consider all opportunities to meet a wide range of consumer needs. Enditem