Altria Group, Inc.

While government regulators and health advocates try to extinguish smoking, retailers an suppliers work to keep this key category alive and well.

Company executives tell CSNews Online the reorganized group will provide more efficient, streamlined business, where retailers will be serviced by one sales team covering Altria's three tobacco companies -- Philip Morris USA, John Middleton and U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Co.

Alternative bill putting regulatory authority under the Health and Human Services department rejected.

Congress considers legislation to address illegal cigarette trade.

Senate introduction of a similar bill could follow this month.

Industry collaboration is urged for pertinent c-store topics—tough tobacco times and candy category opportunities.

States are increasingly looking at tobacco to close holes.

Camel, Kool, Winston and Salem brands increase 44 cents per pack, while Newport and other Lorillard prices upped 71 cents per pack.