It is a brand new year and with 2012 in the rearview mirror, there is no doubt that 2013 is going to be an interesting year for the electronic cigarette industry. While there is no guaranteeing that any of these predictions will come true, we do believe that we will see a number of changes in the upcoming year.
E-Cigarette Technology
It should come as no surprise to anyone that technology is only going one way – forward. We can expect to see more variety and different options hitting the market, and with potentially lower prices as well. Expect to see more devices that come with a computer interface, especially considering that Joyetech and Janty already released such devices near the end of last year. It will be an exciting year as far as new products are concerned.
The FDA
Unfortunately, the traditional tobacco industry will unquestionably use their lobbying power to force different standards in the upcoming year. Even though we are not guaranteed to see any changes enacted in 2013, that does not mean that the small retailer will not suffer a setback. We will likely see E-Liquid manufacturers be forced to undergo licensing requirements and rigorous certification in order to produce products containing nicotine. While it will not affect the large manufacturers, smaller companies may not have the financial resources necessary to do that.
Retail options will grow
It is simple, if there is a demand, we will see more people willing to provide. That is why we should expect the retail adoption of electronic cigarettes to continue to grow at a rapid pace in 2013. Because there is limited shelf space available in retail locations, we will likely see some brands flourish while others may lose market share. We are also overdue for another big tobacco buyout. We predict that either Marlboro’s parent company Altria or Phillip Morris buys out NJOY.
Prohibitionists will change their argument
Unfortunately, we cannot honestly predict that the prohibitionist camp is going to be quiet this year. In fact, the opposite may be true. Because e-cigarettes are becoming increasingly popular, it means they get more attention as well. The prediction is that the prohibitionist camp will undoubtedly ignore the research and suggest that electronic cigarettes make smoking appear cool again. Do not be surprised to see more “smoking gateway” arguments either. The prohibitionist camp is never one to let facts get in the way of a good story.
Also read Steve's industry predictions for 2013 here.
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