Tobacco, a Killer Investment?

Swisher International Group Inc.

The Company

Swisher International Group is the world's largest manufacturer and marketer of cigars as measured by units sold, as opposed to Consolidated Cigar's claim to the dollar figure lead. It also is a significant participant in the smokeless tobacco industry. The company's most visible products are its "Swisher Sweets," so named for their tast wrappers. Other brands include mass market cigars such as King Edward, and Optimo; premium cigars such as Bering, La Primadora, and Pleiades; and little cigars such as Swisher Sweets Little Cigars and King Edward Little Cigars.

Latest Financials

The company today announced that net sales for the fourth quarter of 1996 were $56.5 million compared to $48.0 million for the fourth quarter of 1995, for an increase of 18%. Net Income for the fourth quarter of 1996 was $5.8 million or $0.17 per share compared to 1995 fourth quarter results of $4.7 million or $0.14 per share, for a 23% increase.

Net sales for the full year of 1996 were $225.2 million compared to $186.4 million for the full year of 1995, for an increase of 21%. Net Income for the full year of 1996 was $24.8 million or $0.73 per share compared to 1995's full year results of $21.3 million or $0.62 per share, for a 16% increase.

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