Juul Labs has reached an agreement with a number of local partners to distribute JUUL products throughout Russia, Ukraine, Italy and the Philippines, as part of its long-term, focused approach to international operations.
Under this revised model, Juul Labs entities in Russia, Ukraine and Italy will close and distribution partners will import and distribute JUUL products in these markets, providing adult smokers and smokers who have already transitioned with an alternative to combustible cigarettes.
This more efficient approach will enable Juul Labs to bolster its already strong investments in science and evidence capabilities and new technologies. In addition, this export model gives the company a continued footprint in markets where it can work to maintain trust with key stakeholders and explore next generation products.
“As part of our efforts to pursue our mission globally, we are maintaining our presence in Russia, Ukraine, Italy and the Philippines through a more efficient business model for these specific markets,” Juul Labs’ VP EMEA, Dan Thomson said.
“We are implementing an export model in Russia, Ukraine, Italy and the Philippines, and while we have taken a long-term, focused approach to global markets, we have never wavered from our commitment to the global nature of our mission. This is another important step forward in our effort to reset our company and category, and position ourselves for long-term global success.”
JUUL products will remain on sale in approximately 15,000 outlets across Russia, 9,000 in Ukraine, 8,000 in Italy and 1,000 in the Philippines. All local partners will continue upholding Juul Labs’ strict measures to combat underage use, with every retailer adhering to age restrictions and undergoing continued age-verification mystery shop audits.
Strict marketing guidelines have also been agreed, including no broadcast, social media, or other large-scale forms of promotion, with responsible retail-based marketing only, in full accordance with local legislation and Juul Labs’ policies.