2FIRSTS | New Zealand’s largest vape retailer Shosha accused of using “hidden text” on its website
New Zealand’s largest vape retailer, Shosha, is accused of using hidden text on its website to circumvent advertising regulations.Summary
New Zealand’s largest vape retailer, Shosha, with 125 stores, is facing accusations from Vape-Free Kids NZ of using “hidden text” – white text on a white background – on its website to promote refillable and disposable vapes. This practice is alleged to breach regulations limiting website product information to brand, variant, size, and price. Concerns were also raised about Christmas promotions featuring cartoon imagery potentially targeting youth. Researchers suggest this hidden text could also be used to improve search engine rankings. Further allegations include potential breaches of regulations prohibiting discounts through free shipping offers over NZ$50 and the use of an international domain site displaying full product descriptions. Shosha and the Health Ministry have not yet responded with detailed comments, stating ongoing assessment of the situation.
(Source：2Firsts)
