Philip Morris International (PMI) has closed almost all of its 16 stores, after reportedly struggling to gain traction in the UK, according to the Retail Gazette.

PMI had planned to expand its high street chain before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, speaking of hundreds of IQOS shops across the country as part of the company’s plans for a “smoke-free” future.
The heated tobacco device was first launched in 2016, and featured stores in larger cities such as London, Manchester and Bristol. IQOS was responsible for almost one quarter of PMI’s overall revenue, raking in net revenues of USD 6.8 billion in 2020.
According to the Retail Gazette, 60 agency retail staff were let go due to the store closures. Customers can still buy IQOS products on the internet or through other high street stockists.