Reynolds American Is Celebrating a Future 150 Years in the Making

Courtesy of Reynolds American

While celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, dating back to the founding of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. in 1875, the Reynolds American organization (Reynolds) is looking toward its changing future. From its humble beginnings, the organization has continually evolved, innovating and transforming its approach to delivering a Smokeless World while contributing to the community every step of the way. 

The city of Winston-Salem, NC, credits a significant portion of its growth to Reynolds, which over the past century has become one of the city’s largest employers, a major economic contributor and a force in charitable giving. 

Serving the Winston-Salem Community

One of R.J. Reynolds’ first personal philanthropic efforts was to help fund the establishment of what is known today as Winston-Salem State University. A short time later, the organization’s early success and growth led to a massive influx of people to the area. As Winston-Salem’s population grew, Reynolds continued to contribute to the city’s development through various philanthropic and civic projects that cemented its legacy in the city. 

Over the past 150 years, Reynolds has been involved in the relocation of Wake Forest University to Winston-Salem and has shared a century-long partnership with the United Way of Forsyth County to support community needs. Volunteerism is part of the culture at Reynolds, and the organization was active in relief efforts after Hurricane Helene, donating a collective $1 million to aid the community’s recovery. 

Courtesy of Reynolds

“Today, serving the communities where we live and work remains at the core of who we are,” said Kara Calderon, senior director of sustainability and community engagement. “Whether through local partnerships, employee volunteerism or economic investment, we are committed to helping our communities thrive.” 

Reynolds has a large manufacturing presence in the Winston-Salem area and in Clarksville, TN, and continues to add jobs. Since 1950, the company has employed more than 100,000 people, and job offerings continue to expand, with 4,200 employees today and 300 hired in the last year alone. 

Future-Ready Workforce Alliance

Hiring and training the next wave of production workers has led Reynolds to collaborate with Forsyth Technical Community College on the Future-Ready Workforce Alliance, offering specialized training programs to meet business needs. 

Courtesy of Reynolds

Over the past two years, they have invested $200 million in increased North Carolina manufacturing and the state is the nation’s leading tobacco producer. In 2025 and beyond, Reynolds is focused on creating a future that drives progress for the next 150 years – for the organization and the entire community. 

For more information about Reynolds American Inc., visit reynoldsamerican.com.