Philip Morris To Move Corporate Headquarters To Connecticut

CONNECTICUT — Philip Morris International (PMI), the Swiss-American multinational cigarette and tobacco manufacturing company, announced on Tuesday the relocation of its corporate headquarters to Connecticut from New York.

According to the announcement, the move was "facilitated with the support of Gov. Ned Lamont's office." PMI said the relocation will bring approximately 200 jobs to Connecticut, and that the new headquarters is expected to be operational by summer 2022.

While it's not clear yet where the new office will be, U.S. Representative Jim Himes (D-4) indicated in the announcement that it will be in Southwest Connecticut. A spokesman from PMI told Patch that details will be announced once an exact location is finalized.

"Connecticut offers a valuable mix of technological know-how, future-forward thinking, and an open-minded approach to problem-solving," said Jacek Olczak, CEO of PMI, in the announcement. "We consider it an ideal location for our new U.S. head office, where we will be working to more quickly achieve our vision of a smoke-free future. We are excited about what the state has to offer our company, our employees, and their families—and we very much look forward to integrating into the community in a meaningful way."

Olczak went on to say that PMI is in the middle of a "profound transformation at PMI" as the company looks towards replacing cigarettes with better alternatives, and developing solutions in areas like respiratory drug delivery and botanicals.

"Through our product innovations, sustainability leadership, people-centered employment practices, and community involvement, we intend to be a source of pride for the state," Olczak said in the announcement.

PMI said the new office will house the Americas teams and members of other corporate functions. PMI's Operations Center will remain in Switzerland. Overall, according to PMI, the company employs a workforce of more than 71,000 worldwide.

"We are excited to welcome PMI to the State of Connecticut, showing once again that our state is a growing and thriving ecosystem for businesses," Lamont said in the announcement. "They recognize what we’ve been saying for years: Connecticut is a wonderful place to raise a family and a competitive place to conduct business. I am also impressed by their culture and desire to integrate closely into the communities in which they operate, and we look forward to seeing their active and charitable contributions to our state.”

Himes also welcomed PMI to the state, and spoke about the potential impact the company might have on the economy.

"Philip Morris International’s move to Southwest Connecticut will bring approximately 200 good-paying jobs that will boost our economy and augment the tax base which funds our schools, infrastructure, and essential community services," Himes said. "As our area recovers from COVID-19, I’m pleased to see new economic investment in our community, and thank Governor Lamont for his laser-like focus."