Map shows UK high street’s illegal vape shop crisis - 9 ‘worst’ towns and counties
A new map reveals nine UK towns and counties with the highest seizures of illegal vapes, highlighting a growing crisis on high streets.Summary
A recent report and accompanying map have revealed a surge in illegal vape shops across the UK, posing significant health and safety risks to consumers. As traditional businesses close, these shops are appearing on high streets, selling counterfeit vapes that do not comply with regulations regarding nicotine levels and tank sizes. Central Bedfordshire Council seized the most illegal vapes (345,718 in 2025), followed by Bolton and Kent. The issue is linked to transport hubs like Luton and Heathrow Airports, as well as Eurotunnel and parcel hubs. Industry leaders warn that the reported seizures likely represent only a fraction of the problem and are calling for increased funding for Trading Standards and a vape retail licensing scheme to combat illegal sales and protect public health. Studies also indicate that vaping, even with regulated products, can cause artery damage similar to smoking, while illegal vapes pose even greater, unregulated health risks.
(Source：Daily Express)
