Imperial Tobacco Confirms Talks With Reynolds And Lorillard - Quick Facts

(RTTNews) - Imperial Tobacco Group Plc. (IMT.L, ITYBY.PK) Friday said it has noted the recent speculation relating to a potential transaction involving Reynolds American Inc. (RAI) and Lorillard, Inc. (LO)

The company confirmed it is in discussions with Reynolds and Lorillard to evaluate a possible acquisition of certain assets and brands owned by Reynolds and Lorillard.

Imperial said the U.S. remains one of the world's largest and most profitable cigarette markets and the company would proceed with an acquisition only if its terms met strict transaction criteria.

Bloomberg reported Thursday that Reynolds is nearing a deal to acquire smaller rival Lorillard with the approval of British American Tobacco plc (BTI, BATS.L).