Government announces disposable vape ban and gives retailers six-month grace period

Equivalent bans will be introduced by the Scottish, Welsh, and Northern Irish Governments, also taking effect from June 1 2025, with Trading Standards set to enforce the ban in each local area.

In addition to the grace period, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has announced a dedicated slot in its upcoming Business Readiness Forum forum to provide more information to businesses about the ban offer an opportunity to ask questions, taking place on November 12.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: “Single-use vapes have been subject to much scrutiny since their arrival in the UK, however a blanket ban will cause concern particularly among independent retailers that hold considerable stock of disposable vapes. These stores will need support and guidance through this transition once the ban is enacted.

"While I welcome the Government’s willingness to allow businesses a six-month grace period to sell their stock as well as offering a forum for support, I would expect more opportunities for independent retailers to get the help they need to make this transition as smooth as possible.”