Imperial Brands Urges Retailers to Engage in Government Consultation on Tobacco and Vapes Bill

Nov.04

Imperial Brands is calling on UK retailers to take part in the Government’s consultation on the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which will shape a new licensing framework for nicotine product sales across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Department of Health and Social Care’s call for evidence closes on 3 December 2025. Imperial Brands stresses this is a key chance for retailers to influence policy, support fair competition, and help curb illicit sales.

Key Points

UK Government launches consultation on Tobacco and Vapes Bill
Focus on new nicotine retail licensing rules in England, Wales, Northern Ireland
Deadline for feedback: 3 December 2025
Imperial Brands calls for retailer participation
Aim: ensure fair competition, reduce illicit trade, strengthen consumer trust

2Firsts, November 4, 2025 ——Imperial Brands is urging retailers across the United Kingdom to engage with a new Government consultation that will influence the future regulation of nicotine product sales. The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has opened a call for evidence titled Tobacco and Vapes: evidence to support legislation, which will close on 3 December 2025.

The consultation seeks industry views as the Government designs a licensing framework for retailers selling tobacco and nicotine products in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Imperial Brands emphasises that this is a pivotal moment for retailers to ensure future regulations reflect the realities of day-to-day operations and commercial challenges.

Andrew Malm, UK Market Manager at Imperial Brands, notes that the scheme has significant implications for retailers' business models, stock management and customer interactions. He highlights that, at present, anyone can sell nicotine products, creating opportunities for irresponsible sellers to distribute illicit goods or ignore age-verification rules.

According to Malm, a licensing system would level the playing field by protecting compliant retailers from unfair competition and reinforcing consumer confidence. He encourages all retailers to contribute to the call for evidence, describing it as a rare opportunity to shape policy in a sector critical to their livelihoods.

References:

[1] Imperial Brands: retailers should respond to gov consultation on Tobacco and Vapes Bill

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