Imre said that the company maintains its 2009 plans, in spite of the crisis. “We will invest in expanding the business, because we want to become the largest cigarette producer in Romania as well, considering we are the world’s largest producer. We will also invest, if necessary in a new production line, and in the launching of new brands,” Imre told Business Standard.
Regarding the company’s 2009 turnover, the official said it may maintain its 2008 level. “If this does not drop, it is good. The fact that business in Germany does not increase annually by 10 percent does not mean Germany has an economic problem,” Imre added.
Philip Morris Romania posted net sales worth RON 1.7 billion (€536.9 million) in 2007, close to their 2006 level, and a net profit of RON 80 mln (€24 mln), according to data published by the Ministry of Economy and Finance.
Main players on the local cigarette market, whose value is estimated at €2.5 bln (including the black market), are BAT Romania, Philip Morris, and JTI Romania.
