HOW TO LEVERAGE PRODUCT REVIEWS Effectively
n today’s competitive retail landscape, customer reviews are a powerful tool for both brick-andmortar and e-commerce stores, regardless of industry. They provide social proof, build trust, and influence purchasing decisions. Here’s a simple step-by-step plan to ensure your retail store is utilising reviews effectively.
ENCOURAGE
CUSTOMERS TO LEAVE REVIEWS
MAKE IT EASY
Provide clear instructions and direct links to review platforms.
ASK POLITELY
Train staff to request reviews in person or include prompts in online order confirmations.
OFFER INCENTIVES
Consider small discounts or loyalty points for leaving feedback.
SHOWCASE REVIEWS ACROSS VARIOUS CHANNELS
WEBSITE
Display positive reviews prominently on your homepage and product pages. Aim to get reviews for every product you sell to help encourage other to make a purchase.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Share glowing testimonials of your store’s service on your channels to amplify their reach. Be creative; these could be text-based images or video recorded quotes.
IN-STORE
Feature reviews on posters or digital displays to influence in-store shoppers.
ALWAYS RESPOND TO REVIEWS
ENGAGE WITH FEEDBACK
Thank customers for positive reviews and address concerns in negative ones.
SHOW YOU CARE
Demonstrate that you value customer opinions and are committed to improvement.
TAKE ACTION
Use feedback to identify areas for improvement in your products or services.
UTILISE REVIEWS TO BOOST MARKETING EFFORTS
HIGHLIGHT KEY POINTS
Extract compelling quotes and use them in ads, marketing materials or campaigns.
BUILD CREDIBILITY
Showcase ratings and positive reviews at the earliest opportunity - such as on the front door or shop desk or on your website’s homepage - to attract new customers and build trust.
IMPROVE SEO
Encourage reviews on platforms like Google My Business to boost your search ranking.
COMMUNITY-DRIVEN STRATEGIES TO
BOOST RETAIL SALES
Sponsor 21+ events (e.g., craft beer events, music festivals, or CBD/cannabis education events).
Partner with local businesses like bars, restaurants, or pubs for cobranded promotions and events.
Support local charities or social causes (e.g., hospice and cancer care, homeless shelters, charity runs, addiction recovery programs).
etailers selling age-restricted tobacco harm reduction products such as vapes have the tricky task of balancing compliance with regulations, whilst also engaging their audience.
Community focused marketing strategies are one of the most effective ways to build loyalty, enhance credibility, and boost sales for your shop. Feel inspired by these five community-driven strategies:
Offer loyalty programs with members-only perks, discounts, or early access to new products.
Create a referral program where customers get rewards for bringing in new (age verified) shoppers.
Use privatised and agegated social media accounts (Instagram, Facebook, Reddit, Discord) to build a community and engage with your audience.
Create exclusive content around the products you sell (e.g., unboxing and how to use guides, e-liquid and device pairings, vaping education).
Introduce your team members and create content involving them to humanise your retail brand
Host private sampling, product launches and meet the brand events.
Offer education workshops (e.g., how to make the switch to vaping or how to coil build).
Encourage customers to share experiences (funny or serious).
Feature customer testimonials and highlight positive quit smoking stories.
Run a photo contest where customers can submit product photos for a chance to win a prize.
Reward word-of-mouth referrals with store credit or discounts.
Distribute branded swag (hats, glasses, stickers) at local 21+ events.
EMERGING PLATFORMS VAPE RETAILERS SHOULD BE AWARE OF 3
While established platforms still hold value, emerging platforms offer unique opportunities to connect with new customers and build brand loyalty.
If you’re looking to diversify your marketing strategies and tap into new potential customers, consider implementing the below emerging platforms into your 2025 strategy.
SPECIALISED NICHE COMMUNITIES: 1
Beyond the mainstream social media giants, smaller, highly engaged online communities are popping up. These platforms offer a place to develop your own loyal community or join an established one.
Participating authentically in these communities, by offering valuable information, engaging in discussions, and establishing your retail brand as a trusted authority.
However, tread carefully with heavy promotional content; focus on building relationships and providing value first.
Remember to always adhere to the community’s guidelines and advertising regulations. HERE ARE THREE COMMUNITY-BASED PLATFORMS TO LOOK INTO:
2AUGMENTED REALITY (AR) EXPERIENCES
Augmented Reality (AR) empowers vape retailers
DECENTRALISED SOCIAL MEDIA (DESO): 3
While still in its early stages, decentralized social media platforms built on blockchain technology offer the potential for greater control over content and data.
These platforms, which prioritise user privacy and resist censorship, could become increasingly important for industries like vaping, which often face restrictions on traditional social media.
Monitoring the development of these platforms and exploring early adoption strategies could give your shop and brand a competitive edge in the future.
While the user base on DeSo platforms is currently smaller, it’s a space worth watching as it represents a shift towards user-owned and controlled social media, which may become more prevalent in the future.
PUFFS METALLIC SOFT TOUCH TURBO MODE COIL DUAL MESH ONE AHEAD
For Eff ective Product Promotion
Generate Pre-launch Excitement:
Building anticipation before a new product is released is crucial. Start by creating a buzz through social media teasers, showcasing glimpses of the product and its benefits.
Elevate the In-Store Experience:
For physical products, a compelling in-store display is essential. Use eye-catching visuals, interactive elements, and informative signage to draw attention.
Tips
Utilise email marketing to keep your subscribers informed and engaged. Offer exclusive pre-orders or early access to your most loyal customers as a reward and to generate initial sales.
Train your staff to become knowledgeable product ambassadors, ready to answer questions and highlight key features. Offer demonstrations or samples whenever possible to allow customers to experience the product firsthand.
Optimise Your Online Presence:
Your website should be a central hub for product information. Ensure its up-todate with detailed descriptions, highquality images, and customer reviews.
Invest in search engine optimization (SEO) to improve your product’s visibility in online searches. Consider creating dedicated landing pages for specific product types, brands or promotions.
Harness the Power of Social Media:
Social media platforms offer a direct line to your target audience. Run engaging agegated contests and Q&A sessions to spark interest and interaction. Encourage usergenerated content by offering incentives for reviews and photos.
Strategic Public Relations:
Building relationships with relevant media is crucial for gaining credibility and exposure. Reach out to UK vape reviewers and media sites like Vapouround to secure product reviews and features.
Monitor, Analyse, and Adapt:
Effective product promotion is an ongoing process. Track your marketing efforts meticulously and analyse sales data to understand what’s working and what’s not.
Be prepared to adjust your strategy based on customer feedback, market trends, and competitor activities. Regularly review your campaigns and make data-driven decisions to optimize your results.
UPSELLING AND
CROSS SELLING
A SHORT GUIDE FOR RETAIL STAFF
Upselling and cross-selling are powerful marketing techniques that can boost sales, enhance customer satisfaction, and build loyalty. Both can be used in physical retail stores and online.
Upselling KEY UPSELLING TECHNIQUES:
DEFINITION:
Encouraging customers to purchase a higher-priced or premium version of the product they’re already considering.
Cross Selling
DEFINITION:
Suggesting complementary or related products to enhance the customer’s purchase.
HIGHLIGHT KEY FEATURES
“This model has a larger screen and better resolution, making it easier to monitor and adjust settings”
OFFER COMPARISONS
“This option is slightly more expensive, but it comes with a longer warranty and added features that will save you money in the long run.”
USE THE “RULE OF THREE”
Present three options: a basic model, a mid-range model, and a premium model. This gives customers a clear understanding of the different price points and features.
FOCUS ON BENEFITS, NOT JUST FEATURES:
Instead of saying “This vape has LED indicators,” say “This vape has a 3-level LED battery indicator, which helps you to monitor and better understand the device’s battery level.”
KEY CROSS-SELLING TECHNIQUES:
CREATE BUNDLES
“Create your perfect starter kit with two nic salts of your preference when you buy any refillable pod system.”
OFFER SOLUTIONS TO PROBLEMS
“If you’re worried about travelling with your vape, how about giving nicotine pouches a go instead?”
PROMOTE SPECIAL OFFERS
“If you buy this mod today, you can get the tank for half price.”
USE VISUAL MERCHANDISING
Place related products near each other to encourage impulse purchases.
PERSONALISE YOUR SUGGESTIONS
Pay attention to what the customer is buying and tailor your suggestions accordingly.
RULES:
FOCUS ON THE CUSTOMER’S NEEDS
Don’t just try to sell the most expensive item. Understand what the customer is looking for and offer suggestions that genuinely benefit them.
BE GENUINE AND ENTHUSIASTIC
Your passion for the products will be contagious! Be sincere and avoid sounding pushy or salesy.
TIMING IS KEY
Don’t bombard customers with suggestions the moment they walk in. Wait for the right moment, usually during the browsing or checkout process.
HIGHLIGHT
THE VALUE
Explain the benefits of the upgraded or additional product. Focus on how it will improve the customer’s experience or solve a problem.
OFFER CHOICES, NOT PRESSURE
Give customers options and let them make their own decisions. Avoid being too aggressive or insistent.
KNOW YOUR PRODUCTS INSIDE AND OUT
The more knowledgeable you are, the better you can tailor your suggestions to the customer’s needs.
SETTING A NEW STANDARD IN VAPING
Since its launch just three months ago, Avomi has proven to be a gamechanging force in the vaping industry.
With its tagline, “Designed for Distinction,” the brand has captured the attention of vapers worldwide and solidified its reputation for innovation.
This commitment to driving the industry forward was recognised at the Vapouround 2024 Awards, where Avomi took home the prestigious ‘Best Innovation’ Award.
The accolades didn’t stop there. The Avomi Fliq, the brand’s debut product, earned Best New Pod at Vapexpro Greece the very same weekend. With these awards under its belt, Avomi is positioning itself as a brand to watch in 2025.
Designed with the looming disposable vape ban in mind, the Avomi Fliq is set to transform the vaping landscape for millions of users across the UK.
Combining the convenience of a disposable device with the sustainability of a rechargeable system, the Fliq fills a critical gap in the market.
The Fliq is a 4-in-1 device featuring replaceable pods that users can easily switch out with their favourite flavours.
Unlike disposables, the device is built to last, thanks to its rechargeable battery and durable construction.
Instead of discarding the entire device, users can simply replace the pods, offering both cost savings and a more sustainable vaping option.
available, sold in packs of two, vapers can enjoy variety or stick to their favourites without repurchasing a new device every time.
This innovation ensures that Avomi is leading the charge in balancing user convenience with environmental responsibility.
The Fliq isn’t just practical, it’s stylish. With a softtouch finish and an ergonomic design, the device combines comfort with modern aesthetics.
Whether at home or on the go, the Fliq is as practical as it is visually appealing.
Versatility is at the heart of the Fliq’s design, and nowhere is this more evident than in its flavour offerings.
Vapers can choose from staple favourites like Cherry Cola and Blue Razz Lemonade or explore unique blends such as Lemon Tangerine Ice and Banana Sorbet.
Avomi also caters to diverse preferences with its tailored kits, offering multi-flavour editions like the Fizzy and Tropical Editions, as well as single-flavour kits for popular choices like Pineapple Ice and Lemon & Lime.
Back in October, Avomi made a splash at Vaper Expo UK, where vapers flocked to its booth to discover what the buzz was all about.
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the brand’s approach and the design of the Fliq.
The excitement continued at Vapexpro Greece, where the Fliq’s win for Best New Pod further reinforced its reputation as a revolutionary product.
Avomi’s bold entry into the market has left an impressive mark on the vaping community.
With 31 prefilled pods
The Fliq device is more than just a product, it’s a reflection of Avomi’s vision for a sustainable, userfocused future.
With the disposable ban looming, Avomi has positioned itself as a leader in providing ecoconscious alternatives that don’t compromise on quality or style.
In just three months, Avomi has achieved what many brands take years to accomplish: an awardwinning debut, groundbreaking innovation, and a commitment to distinction.
If these early successes are any indication, Avomi is set to redefine the future of vaping.
JUNE
19-21,
2025 | THE FAIRGROUNDS NASHVILLE
Are you stuck with the same old strategies and outdated products, or are you looking for innovation and deals to meet today's consumer demands?
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INNOVATION AND EXCELLENCE IN VAPING Celebrating
Words: Oliver Smith
The Vapouround Global Awards 2024 once again celebrated the brands, products, and individuals that are shaping the future of vaping.
As one of the most prestigious events in the industry calendar, these awards highlight innovation, quality, and dedication across every corner of the vaping world.
From groundbreaking e-liquids and cutting-edge devices to standout retailers and industry pioneers, this year’s winners represent the best of the best—as voted for by both the public and industry professionals.
With categories covering everything from flavour innovation to manufacturing excellence, the awards showcase the impact of vaping as an evolving, thriving industry.
Here are the winners of the Vapouround Global Awards 2024, leading the way in their respective categories.
Be Beverage LEMON & LIME, SKE CRYSTAL SALTS
Crisp, zesty, and refreshingly tangy, SKE Crystal Salts’ Lemon & Lime is a citrus explosion for the senses.
With the perfect balance of sweet and sour notes, this flavour delivers a thirst-quenching vape that’s smooth yet full of punchy citrus goodness.
Contact: +441483779184
Be Tobacco TOBACCO, XTRA VAPE
Xtra Vape Tobacco brings the robust, earthy essence of classic tobacco into the vaping world with an authentic yet refined profile.
Its smooth inhale and rich aroma make it a top choice for those seeking a familiar, satisfying tobacco experience.
Contact: +971 54 486 6733
Be Fruit
KARMA, KOYUKI VAPOR
A mesmerising medley of tropical and exotic fruits, Karma by Koyuki Vapor blends juicy sweetness with a subtle tang.
Its layered complexity makes for an exciting vaping experience, delivering a bold yet refreshing burst of natural fruit flavours.
Contact: koyukivapor.com
RED GUMMIE BEAR (POD SALT NEXUS SALTS)
POD SALT Nexus Salts’ Red Gummie Bear brings a burst of fruity, chewy candy goodness.
Its bold, berry-infused profile perfectly captures the juicy sweetness of classic red gummy bears, making it an irresistible all-day vape.
Contact: +01772 956414
Be Menthol MIXBERRIES BLACKCURRANT
(KENJI)
Kenji’s Mixberries Blackcurrant masterfully combines rich, dark berries with an icy menthol blast.
The deep, tangy notes of blackcurrant are elevated by a crisp menthol finish, creating a refreshingly bold vape with an invigorating aftertaste.
Contact: kenjijuice.com
Be Dessert STRAWBERRY COTTON CANDY (ENDO WARRIOR)
A nostalgic blend of fluffy cotton candy and ripe strawberries, Endo Warrior’s Strawberry Cotton Candy delivers a perfectly balanced, sugar-spun sweetness with a fruity kick.
This indulgent flavour captures the essence of a fairground treat in every inhale.
Contact: +44 (0) 7787506782 | delboysecigandvapestore.co.uk
Be Shisha
QUIK 5000 DOUBLE APPLE (KARDINAL)
Kardinal’s Quik 5000 Double Apple is a shisha-inspired masterpiece, blending sweet and tart apple notes with a subtle touch of anise.
Its bold yet smooth flavour recreates the iconic Middle Eastern hookah experience in a high-quality disposable format.
Contact: kardinal.com
Be Closed Pod Sy em
VOOPOO
ARGUSBAR PRIME
The VooPoo Argusbar Prime redefines convenience, offering a hassle-free, closed-system experience with sleek aesthetics and consistent performance.
Designed for simplicity and flavour delivery, this device is perfect for those seeking an ultra-portable vaping solution.
Contact: support@voopoo.com
Be Disposable
QUIK 6000 MIXED BERRY (KARDINAL)
Bursting with bold berry flavours, the Quik 6000 Mixed Berry by Kardinal delivers a smooth and fruity disposable experience.
With a generous puff count and rich, layered taste, it’s a premium choice for disposable vape enthusiasts.
Contact: kardinal.com
Be Overa Pod Sy em
UWELL CALIBURN G3 PRO
UWELL’s Caliburn G3 Pro takes the crown as the best overall pod system, featuring precise airflow control, rapid charging, and coil longevity that stands out.
A fan favourite for its simplicity and reliability, it’s a perfect choice for both new and experienced vapers.
Contact: service@myuwell.com
Be Open Pod Sy em
VOOPOO ARGUS G2 MINI
Compact yet powerful, the VooPoo Argus G2 Mini offers an impressive pod experience with robust battery life, smooth airflow, and a sleek design.
Ideal for on-the-go vapers, it delivers flavour-rich hits with effortless usability.
Contact: support@voopoo.com
Be Mod
GEEKVAPE AEGIS LEGEND III
A powerhouse in durability and performance, the Geekvape Aegis Legend III is built for vapers who demand resilience and cutting-edge technology.
With an ultra-tough exterior, improved chip performance, and exceptional battery life, it’s a mod designed for both power and longevity.
Contact: support@geekvape.com
Be Tank (DTL)
LOST VAPE
CENTAURUS SUB OHM TANK
Engineered for intense flavour and high cloud production, the Lost Vape Centaurus Sub Ohm Tank is a must-have for directlung vapers.
Its advanced airflow system and high-performance coils make it a top-tier choice for those chasing bold flavour and thick vapour.
Contact: info@lostvape.com
Be Tank(MTL)
GEEKVAPE TSUNAMI REBORN Z RDA TANK
The Geekvape Tsunami Reborn Z RDA Tank reinvents the classic mouth-to-lung experience with refined airflow and optimised coil design.
Perfect for vapers who prefer a tighter draw and strong flavour concentration, this tank brings innovation to MTL vaping.
Contact: support@geekvape.com
Be Tank (Rebuildable) VOOPOO
UFORCE-X TANK
The VooPoo UFORCE-X Tank delivers precision airflow, enhanced flavour, and massive vapour production.
Designed for rebuildable enthusiasts, this tank combines innovation with versatility, offering a highly customisable experience with outstanding coil performance.
Contact: support@voopoo.com
INDUSTRY TRENDS FOR
2025
As the vaping industry continues to evolve, 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year. From sustainability to cuttingedge technology, and the rise of alternative nicotine products, this dynamic sector is driven by innovation and changing consumer demands.
Sustainability INDUSTRY TRENDS FOR 2025
As the UK vaping industry navigates 2025, sustainability has emerged as a pivotal focus, driven by both regulatory changes and evolving consumer consciousness.
The government’s decision to ban disposable vapes by June 2025 marks a significant stride towards environmental responsibility.
This legislation aims to address the staggering statistic that nearly five million disposable vapes are discarded weekly across the UK, contributing to substantial electronic waste and environmental degradation.
In response to the impending ban, the industry is witnessing a surge in innovation, with manufacturers pivoting towards eco-friendly alternatives.
The development of reusable and refillable vaping devices is at the forefront, offering consumers sustainable options that significantly reduce waste.
Brands are investing in the design of products with longer lifespans and components made from recyclable
materials, aligning with the broader global push towards a circular economy.
Consumer behaviour is also shifting, with a growing preference for products that boast environmental benefits.
Surveys indicate that a significant portion of vapers are now considering the ecological impact of their choices, leading to increased demand for sustainable vaping solutions.
This trend is encouraging companies to not only rethink product design but also to implement comprehensive recycling programs and take-back schemes to ensure responsible disposal of vaping components.
However, the transition is not without challenges…the industry faces the task of educating consumers on the importance of sustainability and the benefits of adopting reusable devices.
Moreover, there are concerns about the potential rise of black-market sales of disposable vapes, which could undermine environmental efforts and pose health risks due to unregulated products.
Ensuring robust enforcement of the ban and promoting legal, sustainable alternatives are crucial steps in mitigating these risks.
Technology
As the UK vaping industry advances into 2025, technological innovation is at the forefront, reshaping user experiences and product offerings.
A significant trend is the emergence of smart vaping devices equipped with Bluetooth connectivity and mobile app integration.
These advancements allow users to monitor their vaping habits, adjust settings remotely, and receive real-time notifications, enhancing personalisation and control over their experience.
Battery technology has also seen notable improvements. Manufacturers are focusing on developing longer-lasting batteries with rapid charging capabilities, addressing a common concern among vapers.
These enhancements not only provide convenience but also contribute to a more sustainable vaping practice by reducing the frequency of device replacements.
In tandem with hardware advancements, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into vaping devices is gaining traction.
AI enables devices to learn from user behaviour, automatically adjusting settings such as power output and temperature to optimise performance and flavour delivery.
This intelligent adaptation ensures a consistent and satisfying experience tailored to individual preferences.
Moreover, the industry is witnessing a shift towards modular designs, allowing users to easily replace or upgrade components like coils and pods.
This not only extends the lifespan of devices but also offers customisation options, catering to the diverse preferences of the vaping community.
These technological trends reflect a broader movement within the UK vaping industry towards innovation and user-centric design.
As manufacturers continue to explore and implement cuttingedge technologies, vapers can anticipate a more personalised, efficient, and enjoyable experience in 2025 and beyond.
INDUSTRY TRENDS FOR
Alternative Nicotine Products
As the UK approaches 2025, the landscape of nicotine consumption is undergoing a significant transformation, marked by the expansion of alternative nicotine products.
This shift is influenced by evolving consumer preferences, regulatory changes, and technological advancements.
Nicotine pouches have seen remarkable growth, emerging as a discreet and smoke-free alternative to traditional tobacco products.
The category, which was virtually non-existent in 2020, has expanded rapidly, with brands like Velo and Nordic Spirit leading the market.
The appeal lies in their convenience, variety of flavours, and the absence of tobacco, catering to healthconscious consumers seeking harm reduction options.
Heated tobacco products (HTPs) are gaining traction among UK consumers, although many question their effectiveness as a ‘quit smoking tool’.
Devices such as IQOS heat tobacco sticks to release nicotine-containing vapour without combustion, reducing the intake of harmful chemicals associated with smoking.
The growth in this segment reflects a consumer shift towards products perceived as lower-risk alternatives to traditional cigarettes.
The impending ban on disposable vapes, set to take effect in June 2025, is reshaping the market dynamics.
This legislative move addresses environmental concerns and the rise in youth vaping.
Consequently, consumers are exploring alternative nicotine products, leading to increased demand for reusable vaping devices, nicotine pouches, and HTPs.
The industry is responding with innovation, introducing products that align with regulatory standards and consumer expectations.
The cost-of-living crisis has also influenced consumer behaviour, with a noticeable shift towards more affordable nicotine alternatives.
Nicotine pouches and HTPs offer cost-effective options compared to traditional cigarettes, appealing to price-sensitive consumers.
This economic factor, combined with health considerations, is driving the diversification of nicotine product offerings in the UK market.
In summary, 2025 marks a pivotal year for the UK's nicotine industry, characterised by the expansion and acceptance of alternative nicotine products.
The convergence of consumer demand for safer, cost-effective options and a stringent regulatory environment is fostering innovation and transforming the landscape of nicotine consumption in the UK.
REGULATION & COMPLIANCE IN 2025
GUIDE TO UK VAPING REGULATION
Navigating the UK’s vaping industry requires a thorough understanding of the regulatory framework established to ensure product safety, quality, and consumer protection.
Central to this framework are the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016 (TRPR) and the oversight provided by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
The TRPR, which came into effect in 2016, transposed the European Union’s Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) into UK law.
These regulations set forth comprehensive standards for the manufacture, presentation, and sale of tobacco and related products, including e-cigarettes and e-liquids. Key provisions include:
E-Liquid Bottle Size
Nicotine-containing e-liquids are restricted to a maximum volume of 10ml per bottle.
Nicotine Strength
The nicotine concentration in e-liquids must not exceed 20mg/ml (2%).
Tank Capacity
E-cigarette tanks, pods, and cartridges are limited to a capacity of no more than 2ml.
Packaging and Labelling
Products must feature child-resistant and tamperevident packaging, along with clear health warnings covering 30% of the front and back surfaces.
Ingredient Restrictions
Certain additives, such as colourings, caffeine, and taurine, are prohibited in e-liquids.
These measures aim to standardise product safety and quality, thereby protecting consumers from potential health risks associated with vaping.
The MHRA serves as the competent authority overseeing the notification scheme for nicotinecontaining vaping products in the UK.
Manufacturers and importers intending to market e-cigarettes or e-liquids must submit detailed information to the MHRA, including:
Product Composition
A comprehensive list of all ingredients and their quantities.
Emissions Data
Information on nicotine doses and any emissions produced during usage.
Toxicological Information
Data on the health effects of the product’s ingredients and emissions.
The MHRA evaluates these submissions to ensure compliance with TRPR standards before products can be legally sold in the UK market.
This process is crucial for maintaining high safety and quality standards within the industry.
THE TOBACCO & VAPES BILL’S EFFECT ON THE RETAIL SECTOR
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill represents a significant shift in the UK’s regulation of tobacco and vaping products, with major implications for the retail sector.
This legislation focuses on stricter controls over sales, advertising, and product distribution, aiming to enhance public health measures.
Licensing Scheme
A key feature of the Bill is a mandatory licensing system for all retailers selling tobacco, vaping, and nicotine products.
Local authorities will oversee applications, ensuring retailers meet strict criteria, including location restrictions near schools and hospitals.
This move aims to limit access to minors and ensure only responsible businesses operate in the sector.
Point of Sale Regulations
Retailers will face new rules regarding the display and promotion of these products.
Restrictions may include the removal of visible product displays and limits on promotional materials at points of sale.
These measures are designed to minimise exposure to underage customers and reduce impulse purchases, prompting retailers to adjust store layouts and operational practices.
Advertising and Sponsorship Restrictions
The Bill enforces a comprehensive ban on all advertising and sponsorship of tobacco and vaping products.
Traditional and digital advertising, as well as sponsorships in sports and entertainment, will be prohibited.
This aims to prevent the glamorisation of these products, particularly among younger audiences, requiring retailers to eliminate in-store advertising and find new ways to engage adult consumers.
Impact on Retailers
Retailers will need to navigate the licensing process, which could include fees and strict eligibility requirements.
Compliance with display and advertising rules may lead to additional costs, such as store modifications. Noncompliance could result in penalties, including fines or licence revocation.
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill signals a transformative period for the retail sector, retailers must adapt quickly to remain compliant and continue serving their customers within the new regulatory framework.
SUSTAINABILITY IN VAPING
As environmental concerns dominate global conversations, the UK vaping industry is embracing sustainability in 2025, driven by regulatory pressures, consumer demand, and the push for corporate responsibility.
With the disposable vape ban set to take effect midyear, manufacturers are accelerating the production of reusable devices.
These alternatives, which include refillable pod systems and longer-lasting hardware, not only reduce waste but also offer consumers a cost-effective way to vape.
Many brands are focusing on modular designs that allow for easy component replacement, extending the lifespan of devices and lowering the need for frequent replacements.
Leading companies are phasing out plasticheavy designs in favour of recyclable metals and biodegradable packaging.
With some brands also experimenting with plantbased plastics and innovative materials that decompose more efficiently, reducing the industry’s environmental footprint.
Recycling programs are becoming an industry standard….retailers and manufacturers are launching take-back schemes that allow consumers to return used devices and pods for safe disposal or repurposing.
By streamlining recycling processes and collaborating with waste management companies, these initiatives aim to address the growing challenge of e-waste.
Government legislation is playing a pivotal role in driving these changes, with a disposable vape ban and anticipated measures targeting sustainable practices are forcing the industry to innovate.
Compliance with these regulations ensures that brands not only meet environmental standards but also align with shifting consumer expectations.
The modern vaper is increasingly eco-conscious, prioritising sustainable options over convenience.
Brands that invest in greener solutions are gaining a competitive edge, appealing to this environmentally aware demographic.
This shift reflects a broader trend of consumers demanding accountability from industries contributing to environmental degradation.
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Join the UKVIA
Become a member of the UK’s largest and fastest growing trade body representing the vaping industry.
membership levels to suit your business and your budget.
Make your voice heard amid regulatory change
So why should you join?
We are undergoing unprecedented regulatory change and the Tobacco and Vapes Bill will generate even more. The UKVIA engages with parliamentarians and regulators to ensure our voice is heard.
Learn from industry peers and experts
From regular webinars to an annual conference, insights as well as learn about new market developments and game changing innovations.
Shape the future of our industry
Contribute to dialogue with government advisers, policymakers, regulators and the public health community and help shape a vaping-led smokefree future.
Make new business-critical connections
As the largest independent vape trade association, the UKVIA provides members with a network of more than 100 organisation in the sector and helps them make new connections which will support the development of their businesses.
Enhance
your
brand reputation
Be part of reputation enhancing initiatives organised by the UKVIA such as a national test purchasing scheme for all retailers, VApril, the world’s largest vaping education campaign for adult smokers and Sustainable Vaping Week.
Access invaluable resources
Members have access to a range of materials published by UKVIA and partners that will support business growth and manage commercial risks including market research, policy papers, industry guidance and campaign assets.
...and much more
The UKVIA has launched a new nationwide initiative to identify and report rogue traders suspected of selling vapes to minors or stocking illicit goods.
Scan the QR code now to learn how you can get involved in the campaign and help cut underage vape sales off at the source.
“
Sometimes it seems like the vaping industry is constantly under attack; whether it be from ill-informed and inaccurate scare stories in the mainstream media; increasing pressure to impose an all-out flavour ban or from calls to implement the disastrous Australian ‘prescription-only’ sales model in the UK.
However, the UKVIA has had some great successes recently including getting vape licensing included in the Tobacco and Vapes Bill and a requirement for consultation before new vape laws are introduced under the powers it brings to regulate flavours, product design and retail displays.
John Dunne,
