A US Federal judge dismissed a lawsuit against tobacco giant Philip Morris by three rival cigarette-makers.
Judge Frank Bullock Jr. threw out both the suit seeking summary judgment and also a preliminary injunction request brought by R J Reynolds, Lorillard Tobacco and Brown & Williamson.

In a smoldering battle between America's biggest cigarette manufacturers, the plaintiffs alleged Philip Morris USA's retail merchandising program, known as Retail Leaders, illegally interfered with the business dealings of retailers with other tobacco companies.

In dismissing the suit, Bullock said the "plaintiffs have failed to present evidence of any unfair and deceptive trade practices" in Philip Morris' efforts to promote its products, including the world's top-selling cigarette, Marlboro.
Bureau Report