New and Improved Skoal Bandits(R) to Debut in August 2006

GREENWICH, Conn., March 14  /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company (USSTC) announced today that it will launch new and improved Skoal Bandits(R) moist smokeless tobacco (MST) pouches.  Replacing the existing Bandits line, the new Skoal Bandits will come in Mint and Wintergreen flavors and debut at retail on August 14.

(Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060314/NYTU025 )

Every can of new and improved Skoal Bandits will contain 20 compact pouches of premium, high-quality Skoal moist smokeless tobacco.  The new Bandits will feature USSTC's advanced Flavor Flow(TM) pouch paper and will be more flavorful, moist, and comfortable in the mouth, providing a more satisfying experience than the original.

In support of the improved product, Skoal Bandits packaging will receive a facelift as well.  For the first time, Bandits cans will feature a "guaranteed fresh-until" date stamp, embossed metal lids and sleek, beveled cans.

"For years, adult MST consumers have enjoyed Skoal Bandits as a more convenient, discreet and easy-to-use MST option," said Eric Fuller, senior brand manager.  "Now, with pouch products enjoying increased popularity among adult MST consumers, and with millions of adult smokers looking for a smoke- free tobacco alternative, the time is right to introduce new and improved Skoal Bandits as a better MST option that fits a variety of lifestyles."

The launch of the new and improved Skoal Bandits will be supported by a comprehensive advertising campaign in national magazines, a new age-verified web site, adult sampling programs, direct mail, eye-catching point-of-sale materials and 10-can pre-packed promotional displays.

Like all Skoal products, the new and improved Skoal Bandits will feature premium 100% American grown tobacco.

U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company is a distinctly different tobacco company. Through its subsidiaries, it is a leading producer and marketer of moist smokeless tobacco products.  The Company's primary brands are Copenhagen, Skoal, Red Seal and Husky.  The Company is the only smokeless tobacco manufacturer to sign the Smokeless Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement (STMSA).  Under the STMSA, the Company voluntarily adopted an array of advertising and promotional restrictions and agreed to pay $100 million towards programs to reduce youth access to tobacco products and combat youth substance abuse. 

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DATASOURCE: U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company



CONTACT:  Andrew H. Lee, Media Relations, [phone], for U.S.

Smokeless Tobacco Company

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