Key Points
- LBC found illegal disposable vapes in 4 of 14 Nottingham shops.
- Earlier investigation identified banned products in all 5 shops visited.
- Government ban targets youth vaping and plastic waste from disposables.
- Some retailers still sold illegal devices and did not check customer ID.
- Authorities say enforcement is ongoing and violations carry severe penalties.
2Firsts, January 3, 2025 — According to LBC, a reporter revisited Nottingham six months after the UK’s ban on disposable vapes came into force and was able to buy four illegal devices from 14 shops. The previous visit, conducted the day after the ban began, found illegal vapes in all five shops visited.
The investigation suggests a decline in the number of retailers selling banned products, though illegal items remain accessible. The Government introduced the ban to address rising youth vaping and concerns that colourful, confectionery-style disposables were appealing to school-aged children. Ministers also noted the environmental impact, citing significant plastic waste from single-use devices.
Despite the ban, some retailers were still offering prohibited products. In one convenience store, the reporter bought a “Banana Ice” Crystal disposable vape for £3.50 without being asked for ID. Another store offered an upgrade to a 4,000-puff device, which had already been illegal due to excessive nicotine content.
Ten of the 14 shops visited were selling only compliant, refillable or rechargeable devices.
A Government spokesperson told LBC that violations could lead to unlimited fines or imprisonment and said the authorities were working with Trading Standards to enforce the ban. Nottingham City Council added that reports of illegal sales would be investigated, with enforcement actions taken where needed.
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