Shopkeepers urged to make their voices heard in vaping consultation

SGF highlights concerns about retail display ban increasing illicit trade

The Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) is urging convenience store owners to make their voices heard in the UK-wide consultation on how vaping products are packaged and displayed.

A 12-week consultation as part of the Tobacco and Vapes Act runs until October 2.

It seeks views on proposals which could lead to new rules around packaging and flavours, along with where and how products are displayed.

SGF is supportive of moves to reduce vaping amongst young people, but is working to ensure that any potential retail display ban does not have unintended consequences for illicit trade, retail crime or the ability for adult cigarette smokers, who wish to quit, to switch to vaping.

Luke McGarty, SGF’s Head of Policy and Public Affairs, said: “It’s vital that convenience store owners and operators make their views known about the impact that these proposals could have on their businesses. Their voices are incredibly important.

“As representatives of responsible community retailers, we have long been clear that vapes are a cessation device for smokers who want to quit and should never be marketed or sold to children.

“But we must be careful that new restrictions do not have the unintended consequence of fuelling illicit trade and retail crime. There is a very real concern that placing vaping products behind shutters will lead to exactly that, adding to the pressures that legitimate community shops face.

“We need to ensure that vaping restrictions are effective but also measured.”

The consultation covers a range of new restrictions on tobacco and vaping products and is being hosted by the UK Government, but the proposals have been developed with the devolved governments in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. SGF is also concerned about the tight timetable for changes to be made, adding unnecessary pressure on struggling retailers.

It can be completed at https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/tobacco-and-vapes-packaging-appearance-and-display

SGF has been working on sensible restrictions with policymakers in recent years, as part of its Healthier Choices, Healthier Communities campaign.