GlobeNewswire·May 15, 2026, 8:37 AM ET

22nd Century Group (Nasdaq: XXII) Ignites Major VLN® Retail Expansion in Metro New York and Northern New Jersey Under Pinnacle Brand

22nd Century Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: XXII) announced shipments of its Pinnacle VLN® brand will commence through a major US cigarette distributor.
Distribution is expanding to nearly 150 high-visibility stores in the metro New York area and northern New Jersey.
The rollout targets an estimated 800,000 adult cigarette smokers in the region to drive consumer acquisition & high-margin revenue.
VLN® products align with state & local health initiatives such as NYS Quits, NYC Quits, and the New Jersey Quitline.
CEO Larry Firestone stated the expansion validates the commercial strategy & positions the company for cash-positive operations.
FDA authorization granted in December 2021 makes these the first & only combustible cigarettes approved to reduce nicotine consumption.
FDA-authorized claims include "95% less nicotine," "Helps reduce your nicotine consumption," & "Helps you smoke less."
The company utilizes patented non-GMO technology to create tobacco plants containing 95% less nicotine than traditional varieties.
Forward-looking statements in the release are subject to risks detailed in the company's Form 10-K filed on March 26, 2026.