Indian cigarette manufacturer ITC has increased its shareholding in King Maker Marketing (KMM) of the US from 50 per cent to 50.98 per cent, effective 25 October 2006.

Consequently, the company has become a subsidiary of the company from the said date, ITC said in a filing with the Bombay stock exchange.
KMM, which is primarily in the business of distribution of tobacco products, reportedly is a leading supplier of premium quality, value-priced cigarettes and roll-your-own (RYO) tobacco. The company's product lines, which include Checkers, Hi-Val and Gold Crest, are made using 100 per cent American blend tobaccos.
KMM currently sells cigarettes and RYO tobacco to candy and tobacco distributors in more than 45 states around the United States, and sells RYO tobacco to licensed retailers as well. KMM is a participant in the master settlement agreement between the tobacco industry and 46 states and based in Paramus, New Jersey, with distribution centres in New Jersey and Illinois. KMM is owned by the Finkles and ITC. (pi)