As an Australian, I have grown up in a society where smoking is not only a common habit, but also a part of the culture. From the iconic Winfield Blue packets to the sleek packaging of Dunhill and Benson & Hedges, cigarettes have always been a prevalent element in our society. However, there is one brand that stands out among the rest – Marlboro Cigarettes. In this article, I will delve into the history, popularity and impact of Marlboro Cigarettes in Australia.
Marlboro Cigarettes have been around for over a century, with its roots tracing back to 1847 when Philip Morris opened a tobacco shop on Bond Street in London. However, it was not until 1902 that the brand was officially founded, and it was named after the Great Marlborough Street, the company’s original location. At the time, Marlboro Cigarettes were considered a premium brand and were targeted towards wealthier individuals.
In the 1950s, Marlboro Cigarettes underwent a major rebranding to appeal to a wider audience. The iconic red and white packaging was introduced, along with the iconic cowboy image that became synonymous with the brand. The brand’s advertising campaign, which featured rugged cowboys smoking cigarettes, aimed to make Marlboro Cigarettes the choice of the “Marlboro Man” – someone who was strong, independent and free-spirited.
The rebranding of Marlboro Cigarettes proved to be a success, and by the 1970s, it became the leading brand in the American market. It wasn’t long before the brand gained popularity globally, including in Australia. In the 1980s, the brand was launched in Australia with the famous slogan “Come to where the flavor is. Come to Marlboro Country.”
Today, Marlboro Cigarettes remain one of the top-selling brands in Australia. They are available in various strengths and flavors, including Original, Gold, Menthol, and Ice Blast. The brand’s popularity can be attributed to its distinctive taste, smoothness, and strong branding that resonates with the Australian market.
With the ever-increasing prices of cigarettes in Australia, many smokers have turned to cheaper alternatives such as roll-your-own tobacco. However, Marlboro Cigarettes remain a popular choice, despite being on the higher end of the price spectrum. This can be attributed to the brand’s reputation for quality and consistency.
Furthermore, Marlboro Cigarettes have made efforts to appeal to different types of smokers. The brand offers slim and superslim cigarettes for those who prefer a more delicate smoking experience. They have also introduced Marlboro Gold Edge, a premium product with a unique barrel filter, and Marlboro Red Double Mix, a cigarette with a revolutionary iceball that allows smokers to adjust the intensity of their smoke.
In recent years, Marlboro Cigarettes have faced backlash for their marketing tactics, specifically targeting the younger demographic. Critics argue that the brand’s advertisements create a false perception of glamour and rebellion associated with smoking. In response, the brand has toned down its advertising and focused more on promoting responsible smoking.
Despite the controversies surrounding cigarettes, Marlboro Cigarettes remain a popular brand in Australia. However, the legal landscape around smoking has changed significantly over the years. In 2012, tobacco plain packaging legislation was introduced in Australia, requiring all cigarettes to be sold in generic, drab packaging with graphic health warnings. This law was highly contested by tobacco companies, including Philip Morris, the parent company of Marlboro Cigarettes.
In conclusion, Marlboro Cigarettes have a long and fascinating history in Australia. From its beginnings as a premium brand to its current position as one of the top-selling cigarettes, Marlboro has become a household name for smokers in Australia. Its strong branding and distinctive taste have made it a popular choice, despite the increasing prices and strict regulations. While there may be ongoing debates about the ethics of smoking and the influence of advertising, one thing is for sure – Marlboro Cigarettes will continue to be a significant player in the Australian cigarette market for years to come.
Link: Marlboro Cigarettes