125 years of a challenger: Imperial Brands opens the market at the London Stock Exchange
Imperial Brands PLC marked its 125th anniversary – and the 30th anniversary of its UK listing – with a Market Open ceremony at the London Stock Exchange, celebrating its rich heritage and ‘challenger’ approach to delivering sustainable value.
Senior leaders and a group of colleagues with years of company service stretching back to the 1990s came together to commemorate the milestones, with Group Chief Financial Officer Murray McGowan opening proceedings.
Speaking at the event,
“Together, these anniversaries help shape the story of a company that has continued to evolve, grow and create value over more than a century. Looking back over our history, one lesson stands out: long-term success comes from adapting to change while staying focused on what you do best.”
“As our industry continues to evolve, our strategy to 2030 is focused on building on that track record: driving sustainable value from our combustible business, growing our smokeless portfolio, and creating a simpler, more agile and more consumer-focused organisation.”
Murray McGowan
Group Chief Financial Officer
Imperial was formed in 1901 when 13 UK tobacco firms merged to create a business with the scale and ambition to compete in a rapidly changing market. In October 1996, after a decade under the ownership of the Hanson conglomerate, the business relisted on the London Stock Exchange.
Today, Imperial Brands’ diverse portfolio of international and ‘local jewel’ cigarette and other tobacco brands are available in more than 100 markets. In line with its purpose – forging a path to a healthier future for moments of relaxation and pleasure – the business is also building scale in smokeless alternatives: vapes, heated tobacco and oral nicotine.
