Imperial Tobacco has created a short film to highlight the dangers of the illicit tobacco trade to retailers and encourage more widespread reporting.

Part of Imperial’s ’Suspect it? Report it!’ campaign, the film can be accessed via the Imperial Tobacco trade website www.imperial-trade.com and via the Ignite trade partner programme site www.imperial-ignite.co.uk.

The film and supporting materials outline the worrying rise in smuggled tobacco being brought into the UK through airports.

Imperial Tobacco’s  anti-illicit trade manager Peter Nelson said: “This film shows the cold, harsh reality of what our law enforcement partners are up against in tackling these criminals. It’s imperative that the flow of illegal tobacco products does not undermine our legal supply chain.

“It’s vital that the trade and public stand up to this problem and help protect hard working retailers and our communities from this criminality. The film message is clear – don’t turn a blind eye, speak up.”

Retailers wishing to report illicit tobacco in their communities should call the Customs Hotline on 0800 59 5000.