BAT plans to expand next generation products business in SA

Cape Town - British American Tobacco South Africa (BATSA) has signed an agreement to acquire 100% of Twisp Proprietary Limited.

BAT said in a statement its aim is to grow the next generation products (NGP) category to offer consumers a choice of alternatives to smoking. This deal will mark the company’s expansion into offering NGPs in South Africa.  

BATSA CEO Soraya Benchikh said Twisp is a leading vaping supplier in SA and that the acquisition will contribute towards BAT's growth and sustainability.

“We already have a large footprint elsewhere in the world. We are committed to the growth of our NGP business and it was only natural that we extend our offering in SA with a range that is familiar to this market. We are excited about acquiring a leading vapour brand and the opportunities it presents,” said Benchikh.

• READ: BAT SA expands R50m emerging farmer initiative

BAT said in a statement that it believes NGPs will play a role in meeting SA’s objectives of offering alternatives to its consumers.

Closing of the acquisition, which is subject to SA anti-trust approval and other conditions, is expected to be completed by mid-2018.

* Sign up to Fin24's top news in your inbox: SUBSCRIBE TO FIN24 NEWSLETTER