Retailers demand action on black market vapes
Scottish retailers are urging increased government action to combat the growing illegal vape trade exacerbated by the upcoming disposable vape ban.Summary
Scottish shopkeepers are expressing serious concerns about the surge in illegal vape sales, which they believe has been intensified by the planned ban on disposable vapes in June 2025. Retailers report that the illicit trade was present before the ban but has now increased tenfold. They highlight that unregulated traders are selling to underage consumers, directly contradicting the ban's intention. The Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) fears the problem will worsen and is calling for increased government investment to tackle illegal sales, particularly to children, and to support compliant retailers. A survey by the SGF revealed that three-quarters of respondents believe the ban has encouraged illicit product sales. Concerns also exist that further restrictions on flavors and store placement could exacerbate the issue, potentially benefiting criminal gangs involved in the black market.
(Source：Scottish Grocer & Convenience Retailer)
