History of Zyn in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: January 18, 2025

Zyn is a Swedish brand of nicotine pouches, a tobacco-free alternative to snus. These small pouches are placed between the lip and gum, delivering nicotine through the oral mucosa. Available in various flavors and nicotine strengths, Zyn pouches offer a discreet way to consume nicotine. Despite being tobacco-free, they are addictive due to their nicotine content. The product's popularity stems from its convenient, smoke-free, and spit-free nature, making it a viable option for nicotine users seeking a less harmful alternative to traditional tobacco products.

2016: Zyn Launches in the US and Sweden

Zyn pouches were introduced in the US and Sweden in 2016, initially with a limited release in the western US states.

2017: Expansion of US Production Begins

Between 2017 and 2019, Swedish Match expanded its Owensboro plant to accommodate Zyn production.

2018: Zyn Expands Retail Presence in the US

By the end of 2018, Zyn was available in approximately 13,500 stores across the United States.

2018: Zyn Achieves Profitability in the US

In 2018, Swedish Match reported profitability in the US snus and nicotine pouch segment for the first time, with Zyn sales reaching 12.7 million cans.

May 2019: US Zyn Production Facility Opens

In May 2019, a new Zyn production plant opened in Owensboro, Kentucky, following a $115 million investment.

2019: Zyn Holds 60% US Market Share

From 2019 to 2022, Zyn held about a 60% market share of nicotine pouches in the US.

2019: Significant Increase in Zyn Sales

Zyn sales increased to 50.4 million cans in 2019.

2020: Continued Growth in Zyn Sales

Swedish Match sold almost 130 million Zyn cans in the US in 2020, contributing significantly to the company's revenue growth.

2020: Significant Retail Expansion for Zyn in the US

Zyn's availability in US stores increased significantly, reaching around 100,000 by the end of 2020.

May 2021: Philip Morris Acquires Shiro Nicotine Pouches

In May 2021, Philip Morris International acquired the Shiro brand of nicotine pouches through the acquisition of AG Snus.

2021: Zyn Faces Criticism in the UK for Marketing Practices

Swedish Match faced criticism in the UK in 2021 for Zyn's social media marketing, which seemingly promoted the product as a substitute for smoking in non-smoking areas.