RICHMOND, Va. -- About a week after announcing a recall of dozens of smokeless-tobacco products, officials with U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Co. (USSTC) said they have reached 97% of affected stores, pulling stock after eight customers in six states reported “sharp metal objects found in select cans.”
“We are focused on moving swiftly, not only to get recalled product off the shelves, but to replenish stock,” said Steve Callahan, a spokesperson for Richmond, Va.-based USSTC.
While not all stock is replenished, Callahan told CSP Daily News that the company has set up a web page to inform customers and store owners as to when replacement product will arrive. This week, the web page said 11 brands are expected to be back on the shelves, with at least three more expected next week. He said the page will be updated weekly.
“We have a very focused sales force in the field with [USSTC’s parent] Altria Group and our distribution [network],” Callahan said. “But the trade—our retailers and wholesalers—has been terrific in supporting this effort. We appreciate their help in working as fast as possible.”
The recall affected a cross section of stores including c-stores and tobacco outlets, Callahan said, emphasizing that a majority of their cans “were not affected by the recall.”
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