Non-tobacco nicotine regulation is failing retailers – here’s how to fix it
Britain's non-tobacco nicotine regulation is failing, creating risks for retailers and allowing illicit operators to thrive.Summary
Britain's approach to non-tobacco nicotine is losing coherence, creating growing commercial risk for retailers. While the UK has been a global leader in harm reduction, the regulatory framework is not keeping pace with the market. Responsible retailers are competing against an ever-growing wave of illicit operators, such as mini-marts selling non-compliant products that often target younger consumers. Enforcement is inconsistent and overstretched, allowing bad actors to move faster than regulators. New sweeping bans and tighter restrictions tend to penalise compliant businesses while leaving illicit supply chains largely untouched. The author proposes a co-regulatory model, similar to the UK's alcohol sector led by the Portman Group, which combines statutory oversight with an independent, industry-funded body. This model would give retailers defined product standards, allow rapid responses to innovations, strengthen age-verification processes, and provide a credible partner for enforcement bodies. It would restore public trust, level the playing field for responsible retailers, and support the UK's high streets by ensuring that playing by the rules pays.
(Source：The Grocer)
