The industry has largely welcomed plans for a licensing scheme for retailers as part of the proposed Tobacco and Vapes Bill.
The government has launched a consultation on the issue, calling for evidence from industry stakeholders on topics including a licensing scheme.
The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) urged a licensing system that “that tackles the illicit trade without unduly restricting responsible retailers”.
The ACS previously warned that any licensing system must focus on stopping rogue traders without introducing disproportionate burdens on responsible retailers.
Chief executive James Lowman said: “The Tobacco and Vapes Bill will mark a significant change to the way that convenience retailers work, not just in terms of age restricted sales policies and displays, but securing a licence to operate. We welcome the opportunity to respond to the call for evidence on behalf of local shops, and will continue to outline what we believe is an effective licensing system to increase compliance and stamp out the illicit trade.
“Unless properly structured, a licensing scheme for tobacco and vapes could result responsible retailers of a wide range of products and services being subjected to more administrative burdens on or prevented from operating just because of their location. We are clear that the object of a new licencing scheme should be to clamp down on rogue sellers and the billions lost through illicit sales every year, but this must not come at the expense of legitimate businesses.”
Meanwhile, the Independent British Vape Trade Association (IBVTA) welcomed the call for evidence
IBVTA CEO, Gillian Golden said, “Policies designed to regulate vaping must be based on evidence rather than public opinion, which has too often been manufactured by media and political hysteria. We therefore welcome this call for evidence published today. Vaping remains the UK’s most successful and most popular way for adults to smoke to quit. This public health opportunity must be protected, while tackling the illicit trade and illegal underage sales.”
VPZ | The Vaping Specialist operations director, Jamie Strachan, praised the suggestion of a licensing scheme. “We welcome the Government’s introduction of a licensing system for vape, tobacco, and nicotine product sales - a measure we have been calling for.
“This is a vital step to crack down on rogue traders who have been selling illegal and unsafe products, often targeting children. Licensing will help protect young people while supporting responsible retailers who follow the rules and provide safe, regulated products for adults looking to quit smoking.
“At VPZ, we’ve long advocated for stronger regulation to ensure vaping remains a trusted and effective tool for smoking cessation. This move will help raise standards across the industry, and we look forward to working with the Government to develop sensible policies that protect children without limiting adult access to harm reduction products.”
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