‘Everybody’s making money’: how two backstreets become the vape capital of Britain
Cheetham Hill in Manchester has become a major hub for vape wholesalers, despite past criminal activity and upcoming regulations.Summary
Cheetham Hill, Manchester, has unexpectedly become the center of Britain’s vape wholesale industry, with over 50 outlets concentrated on two backstreets near the former Strangeways prison. While historically a textile district, the area’s current prominence in the vape trade is notable, especially considering its past issues with counterfeit goods addressed by Operation Vulcan. Despite a ban on single-use vapes and upcoming regulations including a new tax and licensing system, the area remains a key source for retailers across the UK, drawn by competitive pricing and a readily available supply, largely of Chinese-made products. The industry’s growth is linked to the lower cost of vaping compared to smoking, particularly in economically deprived areas, and the high profit margins for retailers. However, concerns remain about illicit trade and the increasing appeal of vaping to non-smokers and young people, prompting further regulatory changes.
(Source：The Guardian)
