British American Tobacco has rolled up its takeover of US rival Reynolds.<br /><br /> That comes after BAT improved its offer. It will pay $49.4 billion (46.2 billion euros) – for the 58 percent of Reynolds that it does not already own. <br /><br /> The deal will create the world’s biggest listed tobacco company, overtaking Philip Morris International.<br /><br /> #ReynoldsAmerican well-positioned as number two player in profitable US market, with 34% market share https://t.co/LKEIEWxUio— BAT Press Office (@BATPress) January 17, 2017<br /><br /> It marks the return of UK based BAT to the lucrative and highly regulated US market after a 12-year absence.<br /><br /> It is the latest consolidation in the industry which is shrinking in the West as fewer people smoke.<br /><br /> Analysts said the takeover could spark further deals involving Philip Morris, Japan Tobacco, Imperial Brands and Altria Group as they all jostle for market share.<br />
