Finance

Winston cigarette maker Imperial Brands unveils $1.95 billion share buyback plan

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on October 7, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 21, 2026

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Winston cigarette maker Imperial Brands unveils $1.95 billion share buyback plan
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(Reuters) -Imperial Brands announced an additional 1.45 billion pound ($1.95 billion) share buyback plan on Tuesday and said it was on track to meet its annual targets on the back of strong pricing

Imperial Brands Launches $1.95 Billion Share Buyback Initiative

Overview of Imperial Brands' Share Buyback

(Reuters) -Imperial Brands announced an additional 1.45 billion pound ($1.95 billion) share buyback plan on Tuesday and said it was on track to meet its annual targets on the back of strong pricing and growing demand for smoking alternatives products.

Company Performance and Market Strategy

The maker of Winston cigarettes and e-cigarette brand blu had expected low-single-digit growth in tobacco and next generation products net revenue at constant currency and mid-single-digit growth in adjusted operating profit for the year.

Leadership Changes and Future Outlook

Imperial's stock price has largely recovered from the lows seen in May, when Stefan Bomhard announced his retirement, as the company has sought to ease concerns over its long-term strategy.

Lukas Paravicini took over as CEO on October 1.

Imperial Brands said it expects market share gains in the U.S., Germany and Australia to broadly offset declines in Spain and the UK.

($1 = 0.7431 pounds)

(Reporting by Yadarisa Shabong in Bengaluru; Editing by Rashmi Aich and Subhranshu Sahu)

Key Takeaways

  • Imperial Brands launches a $1.95 billion share buyback.
  • Company expects growth in tobacco and next-gen products.
  • Lukas Paravicini takes over as CEO on October 1.
  • Market share gains expected in the US, Germany, Australia.
  • Stock price recovery after leadership change announcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a share buyback?
A share buyback is a corporate action in which a company repurchases its own shares from the marketplace, reducing the number of outstanding shares and often increasing the value of remaining shares.
What is adjusted operating profit?
Adjusted operating profit is a measure of a company's profitability that excludes certain non-recurring items, providing a clearer view of ongoing operational performance.

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