B.A.T Industries p.l.c., et al.; Prohibited Trade Practices, and Affirmative Corrective Actions

Résumé

In settlement of alleged violations of federal law prohibiting unfair acts and practices and unfair methods of competition, this consent order permits, among other things, B.A.T Industries and Brown & Williamson Tobacco Corporation to consummate the acquisition of American Tobacco Company, but requires them to divest, within twelve months, six American Tobacco discount cigarette brands and to divest to the purchaser of these brands three American Tobacco full-revenue brands, as well as the American Tobacco manufacturing facility in Reidsville, N.C. If the required divestitures are not completed on time, the consent order permits the Commission to appoint a trustee to complete the transactions. In addition, the consent order requires the respondents, for ten years, to obtain Commission approval before acquiring any interest in a cigarette manufacturer or any assets used to manufacture or distribute cigarettes in the United States.