Seven Stars Cigarettes: A Journey Through History and Marketing

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Keywords: Seven Stars cigarettes, Japanese cigarette brand, Japan Tobacco, marketing, history

Introduction

Seven Stars cigarettes, a popular Japanese cigarette brand, have a rich history and a strong presence in the market. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating story behind Seven Stars, explore its marketing strategies, and discuss its various product offerings. Join us on this journey through the world of Seven Stars cigarettes.

History

Seven Stars cigarettes were launched on February 1, 1969, making them the first cigarettes to feature a charcoal filter. The brand quickly gained popularity, thanks to its domestically blended tobaccos, mainly sourced from domestic leaf tobacco. From 1975 to 1977, the original soft pack of Seven Stars ranked first in sales, only to be overtaken by the derivative product, Mild Seven (now known as Mevius). However, in 2008, Seven Stars reclaimed its position as the top-selling brand. The cigarettes are often referred to by nicknames such as “Seta” and “Bunta.” Over the years, Seven Stars has undergone several design changes, but the iconic star crimp package has remained consistent since its launch.

Marketing

Seven Stars has employed various marketing strategies to establish its brand identity and attract consumers. In the mid-1990s and early 2000s, the brand appointed popular figures such as Toyoshikawa Etsushi, Sugimoto Tetsuta, and Quartz as brand ambassadors. From 2007 to 2011, Seven Stars collaborated with artists such as BOOM BOOM SATELLITES, CHAKI, and Ohno Masao to create web and magazine advertisements targeting men who resonated with the brand. The catchphrases used for Seven Stars have evolved over the years, with slogans like “Silent Man,” “Silent Smoke,” and “Quietly and expanding” emphasizing the brand’s unique appeal. Menthol variants of Seven Stars have also been marketed with slogans like “Menthol tasteable” and “Strong, menthol strong.”

Markets

While Seven Stars cigarettes are primarily sold in Japan, they have also enjoyed popularity in other countries. The brand has been or is currently available in markets such as Singapore, Austria, Ukraine, and Afghanistan. This international presence reflects the appeal and recognition of Seven Stars as a high-quality cigarette brand.

Sport Sponsorship

Seven Stars has made its mark in the world of sports through its sponsorship of the Honda team in the Suzuka 8 Hours motorcycle race. The team, known as the “Seven Star Honda” team, achieved significant success, winning the race in both 2004 and 2005. The association with the Honda team further solidified the brand’s image and created a strong connection with motorsports enthusiasts.

Products

Seven Stars offers a wide range of products to cater to different preferences and tastes. The brand’s product lineup includes:

• Seven Stars (Soft Pack/Box)
• Seven Stars Medium (Box)
• Seven Stars Lights (Box)
• Seven Stars Black Impact (Soft Pack)
• Seven Stars Menthol (Box)
• Seven Stars Lights Menthol (Soft Pack/Box)
• Seven Stars Black Charcoal Menthol (Box)
• Seven Stars Revo Lights Menthol
• Seven Stars Revo Super Lights

Each variant of Seven Stars cigarettes has different levels of tar and nicotine, allowing consumers to choose according to their desired intensity. The brand continuously innovates and introduces new products to meet changing consumer demands.

Carcinogenicity

It is important to note that the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies cigarettes, including Seven Stars, as belonging to Group 1, which means they are known to cause cancer in humans. It is crucial for individuals to be aware of the health risks associated with smoking and make informed choices regarding their consumption.

See Also

To further explore the topic of smoking in Japan and related information, you may find the following articles interesting:

• Smoking in Japan: A comprehensive look at smoking habits and regulations in Japan.
• Fashion brands: An examination of the association between cigarette brands and fashion.

Conclusion

Seven Stars cigarettes have made a significant impact in the Japanese tobacco market. With a rich history, effective marketing strategies, and a diverse range of products, the brand has established itself as a prominent player in the industry. However, it is crucial to remember the potential health risks associated with smoking and make informed decisions. Whether you are a smoker or simply curious about the world of cigarettes, Seven Stars provides an intriguing case study in brand development and consumer preferences.

Remember, smoking is detrimental to health, and quitting is always the best choice for a healthier life.

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons