New Freedom of Information data, analysed by “alternative nicotine product experts,” Northerner, has revealed the scale of illegal vape seizures across the UK since the disposable vape ban came into force in June 2025.
The findings highlight the widespread availability of illicit products on the market, with Trading Standards teams seizing thousands of non-compliant and banned vape devices, raising concerns about the ongoing sale and distribution of illegal vaping products.
The top ten UK councils in erms of seizing such items sees Bolton Metropolitan in number one position, having seized over 250k items since the ban. Hull came second at 204k, with Ealing Borough, Swansa and Hertfordshire also scoring highly.
Seizures in Swansea were the most lucrative, totalling £470k in value of prohibited items seized, with Westminster’s total following at just under £202k, and Manchester City’s total at just over £185k.
At the other end of the spectrum the Scottish Borders Council recorded the lowest number of seizures at just five, while Midlothian recorded just ten. Other low scorers included Fife, Cardiff and Renfrewshire.
Scotland accounts for four of the top ten councils with the fewest vape-related items seized since the disposable vape ban was introduced.
“When the legal market closes a door, the black market often opens a window.”
Dr Marina Murphy (above left), senior director of external affairs UK and scientific affairs at Northerner, said of the results: “When the legal market closes a door, the black market often opens a window. The continued availability of illicit vapes shows that prohibition without effective enforcement risks shifting supply from regulated businesses to criminals.
”Stronger licensing and oversight are needed to ensure consumer safety does not become the unintended casualty of regulation.”
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