The brands are EXTREMELY important. Even the price-oriented "non-brands" are important because they are derivatives of the major brands and also tell you a great deal about the smoker. When people tell they are not - they are in denial. read more
The truth is that brands are a significant part of the identity of the smoker and the"magic" - the subliminal support - they get out of smoking. Brands vary by culture with the rare few - like Marlboro and at various times, Rothman's, Gitanes and so on - going international. read more