JTI, whose tobacco brands include Benson & Hedges and Silk Cut, has expanded its digital offering with the creation of a new JTI Advance app.

Designed with retailer needs at the forefront of its functionality, the app features a barcode scanner and fingerprint sign-in, a shopping list, a margin calculator and training modules.

The roll out of the app is timed to support retailers ahead of TPD2 changes and provides them with an easy way to access category information and up-to-date industry and product news.

The barcode scanner allows retailers to scan all tobacco and e-cigarette products, providing them with the latest product information and retailers can add scanned products to their digital personal shopping list. Another added feature of the app is its fingerprint sign-in technology which allows retailers to access the app quickly and securely.

Peter Kelleher, JTI’s digital marketing manager, commented: “Not all retailers have the luxury of being able to leave the shop floor and work from an office – in fact, 45% of JTI Advance website users access the site through their phones – so we have put key functionality of the site and more on the app.

“The app, much like the website, is on hand 24/7 and complements our Your Guide Through Change initiative that sees face-to-face, digital and trade media support to help retailers through a changing tobacco legislative landscape, allowing them to get on and maximise the £15bn category.”

Dharmesh Pate of Mack News in London said: “JTI’s new app means its expert advice and support is now available at a touch of a button wherever I am. The app has handy features like the barcode scanner, which allows you to make your own shopping list and check up-to-date RRPs – eliminating the need for paper lists.

“It’s important that manufacturers are adapting and providing support like this and with push notifications for news and updates I can make sure I’m aware of any changes that might affect me. I’d highly recommend the app to any retailer with a smartphone.”

Retailers can download the app from the relevant app stores by searching ‘JTI Advance’.

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