Greenock is Scotland's vape capital - but what's behind the boom?
Greenock has become Scotland's vape capital due to high demand and low barriers to entry, sparking debate over its impact on the local economy and public health.Summary
Sofy Saleem, a hardware shop owner in Greenock, has seen his vape sales surpass traditional DIY products due to high demand and the visual appeal of colorful vape displays. This shift mirrors a broader trend in Scotland, where the number of vape retailers has increased by 28% since 2020, with a significant concentration in deprived areas like Greenock's town centre. While some locals lament the decline of traditional retail and the influx of vape shops, others argue that these businesses provide economic activity in an otherwise struggling high street. Experts warn that the rapid expansion of vape retailers, particularly in deprived communities, could normalize vaping and expose children to the habit, despite the industry's claims that vaping is less harmful than smoking. Calls for a licensing regime similar to alcohol sales are growing, as retailers and health professionals express concerns about the long-term health implications and the quality of cheap, single-use vapes.
(Source：BBC News)
