KT&G Expands Its Global Presence with ESSE Launch at Istanbul Airport Duty-Free

KT&G Expands Globally with ESSE Brand Launch at Istanbul Airport

KT&G, a leading global enterprise in the tobacco industry, has significantly bolstered its international presence by launching its flagship brand, ESSE, at the duty-free shops of Istanbul Airport in Turkey. This strategic initiative reflects KT&G's commitment to expanding its footprint in one of the world's largest duty-free markets.

In recent years, ESSE has established itself as a prominent name in the global tobacco market, accounting for a remarkable one-third of all super-slim cigarette sales worldwide. The brand is currently available in over 90 countries and achieved impressive global sales of approximately USD 770 million in the previous year, translating to over KRW 1 trillion in annual sales.

The product variety introduced at Istanbul Airport includes five distinct options: ESSE Blue, ESSE Change 4mg, ESSE Himalaya, ESSE Double Shot, and ESSE Change Double Orange. This offer is tailored to meet diverse consumer preferences, positioning ESSE as a premium option for international travelers.

Istanbul Airport is renowned for being one of the top global airports by passenger volume, having welcomed around 84 million travelers last year. Its strategic location as a hub connecting Europe, the Middle East, and Asia emphasizes its importance in global aviation and retail markets, making it a key site for duty-free retail operations.

Prior to this launch, KT&G made its entry into the Turkish duty-free market in June of the previous year by introducing five ESSE variants at Antalya Airport. The new launch at Istanbul Airport not only reinforces the company’s distribution network within Turkey but also enhances its engagement with the international traveler demographic.

According to a KT&G spokesperson, "This entry into Istanbul Airport duty-free represents a significant opportunity for consumers from around the world to experience KTG products. We plan to expand our business through major global airports and duty-free channels to strengthen our competitiveness in the international market."

KT&G's commitment to growth is evident in its diverse portfolio, which includes Next-Generation Products (NGPs), health functional food sectors, and traditional combustible cigarette markets. Presently, the company boasts an impressive selection of over 870 brands available in approximately 148 countries globally.

As KT&G strategically focuses its efforts on expanding the ESSE brand across global duty-free markets, it aims to improve its business competitiveness and brand recognition on a worldwide scale. This proactive approach will likely enhance its already prominent position in the tobacco and consumer products arena, further establishing KT&G as a formidable player in the global marketplace.

The launch at Istanbul Airport is not just an expansion; it symbolizes KT&G's dedication to meeting the evolving preferences of consumers worldwide. With the potential to attract millions of international passengers, this move is poised to not only elevate the brand’s visibility but also allow travelers to enjoy the exceptional quality that ESSE has to offer.