Vape shop numbers in Scotland rocket as 'harmful industry' continues to grow
The number of vape shops in Scotland has significantly increased to over 6,400, despite a ban on single-use e-cigarettes, raising concerns about youth addiction.Summary
The number of retailers selling vapes in Scotland has risen sharply to 6,397 in 2023, up from 5,275 in 2022, even after the UK-wide ban on disposable vapes in June 2025. Concerns are growing about the increasing rates of teen vaping, with flavored e-cigarettes marketed towards children. Gillian Mackay of the Green MSP argues the current regulatory system is ineffective and calls for local authorities to have the power to refuse licenses to shops selling vapes. The UK Government is also considering extending smoking bans to include vaping in cars with children, playgrounds, and near healthcare facilities. Scotland is currently enhancing its tobacco and vapes register, aiming to balance business burdens with enforcement needs, rather than implementing a full licensing scheme.
(Source：Daily Record)
