Smoking Cessation Product Sales Hit $1B

CHICAGO -- Smokers are getting more help than ever to kick the habit, according to a new report from Mintel on smoking cessation products.

Sales of smoking cessation products are projected to increase 3 percent from 2011 to 2012, reaching $1 billion and are expected to grow through 2017 to $1.2 billion.

Emily Krol, Mintel's health and wellness analyst, warned, however, that the market for these products has its challenges. "A declining number of smokers, as well as increased smoking bans and taxes on cigarettes are shrinking the market for potential users. Growth opportunities for this market will be found in product innovation and line extensions," she said.

Sixty percent of Americans who currently smoke or have previously quit said, "it's hard to motivate myself to quit, because I enjoy it," while 60 percent also said "health warnings about smoking scare me." Still, 48 percent felt strongly that they would be able to quit smoking at any time. Four in 10 of these individuals cited their concern of gaining weight as their biggest challenge; 54 percent were women versus 31 percent men.

"To help with this challenge, smoking cessation brands can proactively provide healthy solutions and tips to help consumers feel more confident in their ability to quit smoking and keep their weight where they want it," said Krol.

Sixty-one percent of those who have previously quit or are interested in quitting indicated that when trying a new product, it is important that they are not left with a craving, while 59 percent said that the product should not be expensive. In addition, 56 percent desire a product that is easy to understand and 54 percent do not want the product to have a bad taste. In terms of support systems, only 25 percent said it was very important to have an in-person support system or coach.

Here is how interest in anti-smoking products currently available, with nicotine and nicotine-free, broke down:

  • OTC nicotine sprays, 41 percent
  • prescription nicotine inhaler, 41 percent
  • OTC nicotine replacement lozenges, 40 percent
  • nicotine-free cigarettes, 38 percent
  • hypnosis, 35 percent
  • acupuncture, 37 percent
  • individual therapy or group therapy, 37 percent
  • a smartphone or tablet app, 30 percent

These Americans also showed interest in products not currently on the market. Forty-eight percent said they would be interested in a nutrition bar or drink that could help them quit smoking and 46 percent would try a lollipop with low amounts of nicotine.

 

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