According to a report from betterretailing on August 14th, one-fifth of Scottish retailers are found to be selling e-cigarettes to children, based on testing and purchasing results done by the Scottish Trading Standards Institute. Furthermore, twelve percent of independent convenience stores were found to be selling products that violate statutory e-liquid restrictions. As a result, the government has emphasized the urgent need to strengthen enforcement measures.
A survey conducted by the Scottish Chief Trading Standards Officer Association (SCOTSS) on August 14 revealed that out of the 312 visited stores, 63 were found to have allowed underage individuals to purchase e-cigarette products for testing purposes.
The research findings have been described as "significantly worse than expected," with SCOTSS attributing the issue to the widespread use of e-cigarettes, especially disposable ones, and their appeal to children.
David MacKenzie, Chairperson of the Scottish Chief Trading Standards Officers Association (SCOTSS), expressed concerns over the results, stating, "These findings are extremely worrisome. We will intensify our efforts this year to provide guidance for sellers and continue to take enforcement action against non-compliant sellers.
He stated that individuals who sell tobacco and e-cigarette products to individuals under the age of 18 may receive fixed fines or be prohibited from selling the products. Alcohol licenses may also be revoked.
McKenzie also called for restrictions on e-cigarette products, stating, "The vibrant packaging colors and sugary, fruity flavors are particularly appealing to children, and the ease of accessibility of disposable e-cigarettes is especially unhelpful. We would like to see display rules for NVPs similar to those for tobacco, where they are kept out of sight in stores.
Reference materials
Exclusive: A recent investigation has uncovered a concerning statistic – one in five shops in Scotland are found to be selling vaping products to minors.
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