Threat of Illegal Tobacco Products to Vape Businesses

Regulations by 2FIRSTS.ai
Jan.03.2024
Threat of Illegal Tobacco Products to Vape Businesses
Norfolk e-cigarette shop owners warn that the sale of illegal tobacco products threatens their business and lacks regulation.

According to a recent report from Edp24, the owner of an e-cigarette shop in Norfolk, UK, has claimed that a nearby store is selling illegal tobacco products, posing a threat to their business. One shop owner even warned that the lack of regulation could permanently destroy the industry.

 

Dave Clarke, owner of The Vape Gurus, has cautioned that a lack of regulation is posing a threat to the industry.

 

After successfully quitting his habit of smoking 70 cigarettes a day, he proceeded to manage this business which now has storefronts in North Walsham, Aylsham, and Sheringham.

 

In the early years as more and more people turn to e-cigarette products as a means to gradually quit smoking, Mr. Clarke says that his expertise is in high demand.

 

However, with an increasing number of non-smokers turning to e-cigarettes, he stated that now most local convenience stores and newsstands are stocking and selling disposable e-cigarettes.

 

He stated, "The issue with disposable e-cigarettes is that many of them contain high amounts of nicotine, up to 20 milligrams, which poses a significant health risk. Those selling these products often lack a true understanding of their impact on health. Another major concern is the influx of illegal products into stores that go unchecked and unnoticed."

 

The legal volume limit for e-liquids in the UK is 2 milliliters, which is roughly equivalent to 600 puffs. Mr. Clarke stated that he frequently hears customers claim that they can purchase products containing over 2000 puffs.

 

He stated, "People saw that they could buy these high suction devices at a cheaper price and deemed it a better deal—hence we lost many customers."

 

The UK government established regulations in 2016 regarding the types of e-cigarettes that can be sold. However, Mr. Clarke argues that the provision of a maximum fine of £5000 is insufficient in deterring retailers from taking risks.

 

He said, "We need to see stronger measures implemented against violators. If such crackdowns do not occur, it is highly likely that e-cigarette shops will go out of business."

 

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn


Notice

1.  This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2.  The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3.  This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4.  Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

 

Copyright

 

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

 

AI Assistance Disclaimer

 

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

Thai Police Seize Over 20,000 Smuggled E-Cigarettes from Malaysia Worth Approximately $260,000
Thai Police Seize Over 20,000 Smuggled E-Cigarettes from Malaysia Worth Approximately $260,000
Thai highway police arrested a 41-year-old woman in Ratchaburi for smuggling 23,760 e-cigarettes worth $260,000 from Malaysia. The bust is part of a broader crackdown on cross-border smuggling networks.
Jul.24 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Malta Health Authority Issues Warning on Nicotine Pouches, Plans Inclusion in Future Tobacco Control Strategy
Malta Health Authority Issues Warning on Nicotine Pouches, Plans Inclusion in Future Tobacco Control Strategy
Malta’s health authorities warn of the dangers of nicotine pouches as several European countries initiate bans.
Jul.08
JUUL Labs Statement on FDA Marketing Authorization
JUUL Labs Statement on FDA Marketing Authorization
JUUL Labs said its e-cigarettes have received FDA marketing granted orders (MGOs), meeting the “public health” standard. It noted it is the only major vaping firm not backed by a traditional tobacco company.
Jul.18
2Firsts Interview | Malawi’s Economic Engine: TAMA Farmers Trust CEO Reflects on the Current Marketing Season and Malawi’s Heavy Tobacco Dependence
2Firsts Interview | Malawi’s Economic Engine: TAMA Farmers Trust CEO Reflects on the Current Marketing Season and Malawi’s Heavy Tobacco Dependence
Malawi relies heavily on tobacco, which generates over 50% of foreign exchange and 12% of GDP. In 2025, output is expected to reach 175 million kg, but lower prices and rising costs hurt profits. TAMA CEO Nixon Lita discusses climate effects, market pressures, diversification, and challenges from next-generation nicotine products.
Jul.30
WHO Representative in Malaysia: Country Should Follow Neighbors in Implementing a Full E-cigarette Ban
WHO Representative in Malaysia: Country Should Follow Neighbors in Implementing a Full E-cigarette Ban
The World Health Organization’s representative in Malaysia has called for a nationwide ban on e-cigarettes, citing regulatory gaps that put children and adolescents at risk. While some Malaysian states have imposed bans, a unified national policy is needed to close enforcement loopholes.
Jul.28 by 2FIRSTS.ai
UK Royston Vape Shop Shut Down for Selling Illegal Tobacco and E-Cigarette Products
UK Royston Vape Shop Shut Down for Selling Illegal Tobacco and E-Cigarette Products
A vape shop in Royston, UK, was shut down for three months after repeated sales of illegal cigarettes, cannabis, and disposable vapes. Authorities seized 5,360 cigarettes, 0.85 kg of rolling tobacco, 176 vapes, and cannabis products. The shop also sold to minors and employed illegal workers. A criminal investigation is underway after two people were caught entering the store post-closure.
Jul.25 by 2FIRSTS.ai