Heatsticks are specially prepared tobacco sticks that are heated in the GLO™ device, releasing an aerosol containing nicotine and the flavor of tobacco or flavorings. They are made from processed tobacco (with real nicotine), which, when heated, produces flavor and a nicotine aerosol, but without the traditional combustion and smoke of cigarettes. The heating temperature is typically significantly lower than the combustion temperature of a regular cigarette—around 240°C—which affects the aerosol composition. These heatsticks cannot be lit or used like regular cigarettes, as this will result in unpleasant burning of the coating and possible toxic products.
Formats and Compatibility
GLO™ heatsticks come in several formats—it’s important to choose the right one for your specific device:
According to the manufacturer’s official information, production of Nano sticks will cease in 2025, and the brand will gradually transition to a single Demi format. This means that new Nano sticks will soon cease to be available for sale, and the product range will gradually be replaced by Demi-format products.
💡 N.B. The wrong stick size may not fit and may not work or damage the device.
Flavors and Options
The range of sticks is quite wide and includes both regular tobacco flavors and and numerous aroma types.
Tobacco flavors:
- Classic Tobacco – a classic, rich tobacco flavor.
- Silver Tobacco – a moderately mild tobacco flavor.
- Smooth Tobacco – a balanced, milder flavor.
Flavored / Aromatized flavors
There are fruity, menthol, and other aromatic sticks (for example, the aggressive berry “Blast” flavors). The selection may vary by region and market.
Popularity and Markets
Following the launch of GLO™ in 2016–2017, British American Tobacco quickly expanded the product into key global markets. Japan has become the largest market. Here, HTPs account for a third of the entire tobacco market, and GLO is competing for a place alongside the leader IQOS.
In Europe, GLO is present in almost every country—Italy and Romania were among the first, followed by expansion in Poland, the Czech Republic, Germany, and Switzerland. Europe accounts for the majority of GLO’s sales and a growing consumer base.
In North America, GLO is present in Canada and part of the US, but the market is more strictly regulated, so growth there is moderate. The remaining regions—Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa—are small but developing markets.
As a result, GLO is present in over 20 markets, with the largest share in Asia and Europe, and is gradually expanding its presence in North America and other regions.
