The Decline of Disposable E-Cigarettes in German Market

According to a recent report by German media Stern, the controversial disposable e-cigarette has seen a significant decline in sales in German stores. In 2022, these products accounted for 40% of the legal e-cigarette market in Germany, but it is expected that by the end of 2024, this proportion will drop to 15%, possibly decreasing to 10% by 2025. This information was revealed by Philip Drögemüller, Managing Director of the Smoke-Free Enjoyment Alliance (BfTG), at the Intertabac International Tobacco Exhibition in Dortmund. Businesses and manufacturers in the industry are also involved in this association.

Philip Deleger Muller pointed out that the company is preparing for the ban on disposable e-cigarettes coming into effect in 2027. These devices have non-rechargeable or easily replaceable batteries. Meanwhile, shops are actively promoting reusable e-cigarette devices, which not only offer consumers a price advantage but also allow the e-liquid to be topped up through capsules or small bottles.

Disposable e-cigarettes are particularly popular among young people because they often feature eye-catching color designs. However, environmental organizations criticize these disposable products, believing that they waste a significant amount of raw materials. Representatives from the waste management industry also warn that if disposable e-cigarettes are disposed of as regular trash rather than electronic waste, it could pose a fire hazard in garbage trucks and sorting facilities.

The member of the e-cigarette trade association (VdeH), Horst Winkler, stated that professional shops are working to guide customers towards choosing more sustainable systems and moving away from disposable products. He anticipates that the sales of disposable products will continue to decline, but he warns that black market activity may increase. He is calling on the government to take decisive action to address the current lack of enforcement.

As consumer interest in reusable e-cigarette devices grows, why are stores still selling disposable products? Philip Delgregmo explained that these products have seen significant success in the past few years, and although their popularity is declining, there is still a market for them.

At the international tobacco exhibition opening in Germany this Thursday, the various booths also reflected a trend from disposable products to reusable products. Selim Özder, general manager of the Reymont Germany subsidiary, revealed that while the company is still selling disposable products, they will stop selling them by the end of this year. Reymont is promoting its reusable system at the trade show and expects to expand its business next year. Similarly, Gold Bar, which heavily promoted disposable products at last year's exhibition, has introduced reusable products. Competitor Elfbar has stated that disposable products are "old products" and is promoting its newly launched refillable device. A company representative stated, "The future product is refillable.