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Benson & Hedges was founded in 1873 by Richard Benson and William Hedges as Benson and Hedges Ltd. The 1900s saw branches of Benson & Hedges Ltd. opening in the United States and Canada. In 1928, the American branch became independent, and was bought by
PM in 1958 who also purchased the Canadian branch in 1960. Benson & Hedges Ltd in the UK was acquired by Gallaher Limited in 1955.A
warrent was issued to the British company in 1878, after the required five years of supply to the Royal Family. This was revoked in 1999 due to a "lack of demand in the royal households". The Warrant seal, which had previously been on the flip lid of the box, was removed.In July 2009, B&H launched a gold and silver version of rolling tobacco.
Benson & Hedges brands in the UK over the last 40 years have included: Sovereign (two versions), Gold Bond, Virginia Red, and Virginia Blue.
