Tareyton: A Journey Through the History of an American Cigarette Brand

Introduction

American Cigarette Brand

Since its introduction in 1954, Tareyton has become an iconic American cigarette brand. Owned and produced by the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, Tareyton has left an indelible mark on the tobacco industry. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the fascinating history and advertising campaigns of Tareyton cigarettes. Join us as we explore the rise and fall of this beloved brand.

History

Tareyton’s journey began as a variation of the popular Herbert Tareyton cork-tipped non-filter cigarettes. The original slogan, “There’s something about them you’ll like,” captured the attention of smokers across the United States [^5]. As the popularity of filters grew in the late 1950s, Tareyton was introduced in 1954 as the filtered version of Herbert Tareyton, minus the cork tip. The brand was initially successful, but over time, it lost its appeal and is now primarily available in specialty tobacco stores and online [^5].

Advertising

Tareyton was not only known for its cigarettes but also for its iconic advertising campaigns. In the 1930s, various cigarette cards were created to promote the original Herbert Tareyton brand [^7]. However, it was the mid-1960s campaign that truly made Tareyton a household name. The slogan, “Us Tareyton smokers would rather fight than switch!” became immensely popular despite its grammatical incorrectness [^6].

Television and print advertisements featured Tareyton smokers with black eyes, symbolizing their willingness to fight to defend their brand and their unwavering loyalty to the product. This slogan remained in use from 1963 until 1981 [^6]. In 1966, the brand enlisted the help of American celebrity Martha Stewart, who appeared in a print ad alongside actor Lyle Waggoner [^8]. The late 1960s saw a shift in advertising strategy, with commercials featuring frustrated smokers attempting to attach Tareyton’s filter to other cigarette brands [^9].

The Unique Filter Design

One of the distinguishing features of Tareyton cigarettes is its filter design. The filter consists of two parts: a fiber component and activated charcoal. This innovative design aimed to provide a smoother smoking experience for Tareyton smokers [^9]. The combination of fiber and activated charcoal effectively reduces certain impurities and odors, enhancing the overall taste and quality of the cigarettes [^9].

Market Presence

Tareyton cigarettes were once widely available in the United States, Finland, Germany, and Switzerland [^1][^2][^3][^4]. However, due to changing market trends and consumer preferences, the brand’s presence has significantly diminished. Today, Tareyton can primarily be found in specialty tobacco stores and online retailers catering to niche markets [^5]. Despite its limited availability, Tareyton continues to have a dedicated following of loyal smokers who appreciate its unique flavor and heritage.

Product Ownership

The R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company has owned and produced Tareyton cigarettes since their introduction. As one of the largest tobacco companies in the United States, R.J. Reynolds has a rich history of producing iconic cigarette brands [^5]. Tareyton remains a part of their diverse product portfolio, representing a distinct segment of the market.

Conclusion

The story of Tareyton is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of the tobacco industry. From its humble beginnings as a variation of Herbert Tareyton to its iconic advertising campaigns, this American cigarette brand has left an indelible mark on the market. While its availability may have diminished, Tareyton continues to be cherished by a dedicated group of smokers who appreciate its unique flavor and heritage. As we reflect on the history of Tareyton, we are reminded of the ever-changing landscape of the tobacco industry and the enduring allure of beloved cigarette brands.

Additional Information:

It’s important to note that smoking cigarettes can have severe health consequences. The information provided in this article is purely historical and does not encourage or endorse smoking. We strongly advise individuals to consider the health risks associated with smoking and to make informed decisions regarding their well-being.

Tone of Voice:

The tone of this article is informative and nostalgic. It aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the history and advertising campaigns of Tareyton cigarettes while acknowledging the changing societal attitudes towards smoking. The article highlights the unique aspects of the brand and its impact on the tobacco industry, all while maintaining a respectful and responsible approach.

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