Dothan, Ala. (WDNews) — A cigar manufacturing facility in Dothan is expected to shut down, impacting dozens of local jobs, according to multiple reports.
The facility, located at 700 Columbia Highway and operated by Swedish Match under parent company Philip Morris International U.S., will close as part of a broader shift in business strategy.
According to multiple reports, the site has been a long-standing part of the Dothan community, originally operating as a General Cigar facility dating back to the late 1970s or early 1980s. The plant later became part of Swedish Match in 1999 when the company acquired a majority interest in General Cigar’s mass-market cigar business, bringing the Dothan facility into its portfolio. The site was primarily used to manufacture widely distributed cigar products, including the Game brand.
The facility remained active in the Wiregrass for decades, contributing to the local economy and community. Reports show the company was still engaged locally as recently as 2022, including support for organizations like the Wiregrass United Way.
Ownership of the facility changed in 2023 when Philip Morris International completed its full acquisition of Swedish Match, placing the Dothan operation under PMI U.S.
The closure, announced March 25, 2026, comes as the company shifts away from traditional tobacco products and places a stronger focus on smoke-free alternatives, while also working to streamline operations.
The shutdown is expected to impact approximately 54 employees in the area. Around 20 workers will remain temporarily to support ongoing operations before the facility is fully closed.
An exact timeline for the final closure has not been publicly confirmed.
