As changes to tobacco and vaping laws are introduced, Trading Standards officers are urging businesses across the borough to familiarise themselves with their legal responsibilities. The department is collaborating with the Centre for Excellence, Humber and North Yorkshire’s regional prevention programme, to ensure businesses selling tobacco, vapes, and other nicotine products are aware of the new legislation.
The Tobacco and Vapes Act, which came into force this week, introduces stricter restrictions on underage sales, vending machines, and promotional offers. These changes empower Trading Standards officers with additional powers to combat illegal sales and safeguard children and young people from accessing vaping and nicotine products.
From the end of October, it is illegal to sell any vaping or nicotine product to individuals under the age of 18. It is also now an offence for an adult aged 18 or over to purchase, or attempt to purchase, these products for someone under 18, a practice known as proxy purchasing. Products covered by the new age restriction include nicotine vapes, non-nicotine vapes, nicotine pouches, and other nicotine products. Medicinal products and medical devices, such as nicotine replacement therapies, are exempt.
Retailers are encouraged by Trading Standards officers to review their age-verification procedures, ensure staff are fully informed of the new requirements, and implement appropriate measures to prevent illegal sales. Tom Amblin-Lightowler, Head of Regulation & Sustainability for North East Lincolnshire Council, stated, “These changes are an important step in protecting children and young people from the risks associated with vaping and nicotine products. We urge businesses to familiarise themselves with the new legislation, review their procedures and ensure staff are fully prepared. Trading Standards is committed to supporting responsible retailers, but businesses that fail to comply with the new rules could face enforcement action.”
The new legislation also prohibits the use of vending machines for selling tobacco products, herbal smoking products, cigarette papers, vaping products, and nicotine products. It will be an offence for any person responsible for premises to have a vending machine that sells or dispenses these items, even if payment is made elsewhere. Furthermore, businesses will be restricted from offering products as free samples for promotional purposes or providing substantial promotional discounts on regulated products.
Businesses found to be non-compliant with the new regulations may receive a £200 fixed penalty notice. Scott Crosby, Associate Director at the Centre for Excellence, commented, “We’re encouraging all retailers to familiarise themselves with the new guidance and take responsibility for helping to keep children safe. It’s vital that nicotine products are not promoted or sold in ways that could attract young people. The guidance supports landmark legislation aimed at preventing future generations from taking up smoking, while ensuring those who already smoke continue to receive the support they need to quit. Together, these measures could make a significant difference to public health and help save thousands of lives across our region.”
North East Lincolnshire Council Trading Standards officers are available to provide more detailed advice or guidance. Retailers can get in touch via trading.standards@nelincs.gov.uk.
