AS WE LOOK AT THE NEXT FEW YEARS, WHAT’S IN STORE FOR TOBACCO AND ROLLING PRODUCTS? 

This decade is going to continue to be transformational. It certainly started off with a major disruption—the pandemic and lockdowns accelerated the pace of change in the marketplace. While we’ve seen plenty of trends in this turbulent timeframe turn out to be temporary distractions, the rolling category is due to see sustained growth.

While headlines today holler about the global supply chain, Republic Brands is exceptionally well positioned due to its vertical integration and 200-year history serving customers. Across our lines of business in tobacco, cigarette tubes, rolling papers and cones, we maintain ownership at every stage of the supply chain. That’s why we’ve been stable and consistent in reliably providing our customers with rolling products.

WHY SHOULD C-STORE RETAILERS LOOK TO PAPERS, CONES AND ROLLING PRODUCTS AS A NEW SALES OPPORTUNITY?

Across our lines of business in tobacco, cigarette tubes, rolling papers and cones, we maintain ownership at every stage of the supply chain. 

Adult smokers’ attitudes have changed in a short period. They’re open to more formats than ever. This includes unique materials in rolling papers like all natural, real rice fibers from the Camargue Delta in southern France in OCB Brown Rice Rolling Papers. We’ve seen a steady rise in our line of ready-made cones with OCB® Bamboo Cones, JOB® Virgin Unbleached Cones, and e-z wider® Organic Hemp cone-z™.

Among adult tobacco consumers 21+, we are seeing the transformation of the back bar in convenience stores. As the repertoire of total tobacco continues to evolve, combustibles will still represent 50% of tobacco sales for c-stores.

For adult tobacco consumers whose repertoire includes leaf tobacco, we see roll your own (RYO) and make your own (MYO) as more relevant than ever. Customers get freedom of choice and always fresh, high quality products at a much lower price point that fits today’s economic realities—while retailers carry products that drive store visits and profits.

AND WHO IS THE TYPICAL CUSTOMER?

Adults 21 and older are customers of rolling products and are more aware of simple ingredients, sustainably grown and harvested materials, and responsible manufacturing processes in the products and brands that interest them. According to a report published by Statista, nearly 90% of respondents would buy a product with a “social environmental benefit.”

With the cost of living rising fast while inflation impacts housing, fuel, and staples of everyday living, consumers are looking for maximum value without paying a premium.

The first priority is making sure adult consumers clearly see that the products they want are available and in stock.

HOW CAN RETAILERS CAPTURE THESE CONSUMERS’ ATTENTION? 

The first priority is making sure adult consumers clearly see that the products they want are available and in stock. This exciting new era in RYO and MYO is a growth opportunity for c-stores across the U.S., and a unique opportunity to offer the products consumers want—where and when it’s more convenient for them to shop. Our iconic portfolio of brands such as OCB®, JOB® and e-z wider® plus RYO/MYO mainstays TOP®, Gambler® and Premier®, can help lead the ongoing transformation in rolling products, accessories and merchandise.

HOW CAN THESE PRODUCTS FIT INTO EXISTING PLANOGRAMS? 

Republic Brands changed our name in 2021 to reinvigorate the brand portfolio and introduce new product offerings to address the rapidly changing needs of the convenience channel while retaining its reputation as a trusted manufacturer and developer of sustainably sourced products. Adult consumers want more choices, and they’re increasingly looking for them in the convenience channel. Today, Republic Brands provides sales-driving solutions in traditional and alternative markets that today’s adult consumers are actively shopping.

WHY DO TODAY’S CUSTOMERS GRAVITATE TOWARD YOUR BRAND? 

Republic Brands leverages its Plant To Puff supply chain that’s upheld by ISO and GMP standards of sustainability, ethics and environmental responsibility to meet rising demand for cones, rolling papers, rollers, injectors, accessories and more. Plant To Puff ensures this portfolio of brands reaches into a greener world with products that are contemporary, smart and sustainable.