JTI is approaching retailers to join its direct sales scheme that bypasses traditional wholesalers, according to an unnamed industry source.

Those that qualify can receive discounted JTI tobacco products from the manufacturer.

JTI’s head of communications, Mark Yexley, said: “JTI has always supplied independent accounts directly across the UK. Recently, given the significant commercial and regulatory changes to the market, JTI has had a number of requests from retailers for direct accounts. We are reviewing these requests on a case-by-case basis and are continuing to develop our strategy for direct deliveries in the future.”

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