28 October 2024
Businesses will be given a six-month grace period to sell existing disposable vape stock following the UK Government’s introduction of legislation to ban the sale and supply of single-use vapes in England from June next year.
The grace period will take effect after the ban is enacted on June 1 next year.
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.”
The Business Readiness Forum is scheduled for Tuesday 12th November from 2pm to 4pm via Microsoft Live, with no pre-registration required. For more information and to add the event to your calendar, click here.
Related News
All News-
Government announces funding for Trading Standards to enforce the Offensive Weapons Act
The Government has announced new funding to support Trading Standards teams in England and Wales with enforcing the Offensive Weapons Act 2019.
-
Bira welcomes Chancellor's action on unfair trade practices
Bira welcomes the Chancellor's announcement of plans to create a level playing field for British businesses against unfair international trade practices.
-
IRC Quarterly Heartbeat Survey - Q1 2025
Bira and and other members of the Independent Retailers Confederation (IRC) are gathering data on high street business performance throughout the year.
-
Retail crime remains alarming - Bira's latest survey reveals need for action
Independent retailers across the UK continue to face stubborn levels of retail crime and alarmingly more retailers are choosing not to report theft incidents to police, according to the latest survey conducted by Bira.