R. J. Reynolds completed its merger with Nabisco.

Shareholders of Nabisco Brands voted final approval of the proposed $4.9-billion merger, which is effective immediately. Under terms of the agreement, Nabisco Brands becomes an operating company of R. J. Reynolds Industries. Reynolds had previously acquired 50.2% of Nabisco in a tender offer that expired July 2. In addition, the tobacco company also said it will stop selling six pipe and rolling tobaccos, which make up less than 1% of its sales.