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.
