Ballantyne Brands, LLC Launches NEO™ E-cigs at Kangaroo Express™

Retail agreement with The Pantry Inc. brings NEO™ to more than 1250 stores; marks the first time the brand will be sold at retail

CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ballantyne Brands, LLC, an electronic cigarette (e-cig) provider, today announced an agreement with The Pantry, Inc., the leading convenience store operator in the southeastern United States, to distribute its NEO™ brand of e-cigs in more than 1,250 Kangaroo Express™ stores.

“NEO™ was a clear choice when making a supplier decision in this category”

The Pantry and Ballantyne Brands said the NEO™ brand began appearing in the Kangaroo Express™ stores in December 2012. The agreement between Ballantyne Brands and The Pantry, which operates in 13 states, marks the first time that NEO™ is being sold through a retailer.

“NEO™ was a clear choice when making a supplier decision in this category,” said Jennifer Eaton, category manager at The Pantry. “As the leading convenience store operator in the southeastern U.S., we have to be certain the product we offer is of the best quality, and is at a price point that is attractive to our customers.”

“With more five years of retail experience in the electronic cigarette industry, we pride ourselves in offering our customers the best retail experience possible,” said John Wiesehan III, Ballantyne Brands’ vice president of sales. “Having a partner like The Pantry underscores our effort in being a brand consumers and retailers trust. Likewise, we are committed to offering quality products at an affordable price.”

About Ballantyne Brands, LLC

Electronic cigarettes are alternatives for traditional tobacco. Ballantyne Brands distributes its electronic cigarettes to thousands of retail outlets across the country. NEO™ and Mistic™ electronic cigarettes, commonly called e-cigs, are available in both traditional tobacco and menthol flavors. They also offer both rechargeable and non-rechargeable options. Our team works continually to provide our customers with the highest quality products available at a price below our competitors and much less than that of traditional cigarettes. Our innovations are guaranteed to provide our customers with a more convenient and enjoyable alternative smoking experience.