Can I Rip Your Juul? The Evolution of the Electronic Cigarette Industry, its Products, and Marketing Appeals

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Date

2020

Authors

McGonegal, Matthew Edward

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

University of Oregon

Abstract

In recent years, public attitudes toward electronic cigarettes have undergone a fascinating transformation. What began as an underdeveloped, niche market for adult smokers looking to quit evolved into a hobbyist subculture as vaporizer technologies advanced and marketing appeals diverted from smoking cessation messages. Perceptions of the e-cigarette industry soon transformed again with the emergence of a new competitor: JUUL Labs. Since JUUL’s introduction to the market in 2015, it has grown to dominate the space in both market share and cultural relevance. Although e-cigarette makers have long promoted their products as a smoking cessation method, JUUL’s popularity with underage users has cast doubt over the public health benefits of e-cigarettes. This thesis explores the evolution of the e-cigarette industry’s products, marketing appeals, and audiences, as well as the product and marketing factors contributing to JUUL’s popularity with nicotine-naïve users.

Description

77 pages

Keywords

Marketing, Public Relations, e-cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, Juul, Vaping, Marketing, Public Health

Citation