Vape Shops in UK Surge by 233, Sales Revenue Surpassing USD 1.1 Billion

Market by 2FIRSTS.ai
Jan.04.2024
Vape Shops in UK Surge by 233, Sales Revenue Surpassing USD 1.1 Billion
The number of independent e-cigarette shops in the UK increased significantly in 2023, reaching a total of 3,573.

According to a report by Sky News, published on January 2nd, data from the research company LDC indicates a notable growth in the number of independent e-cigarette shops in the United Kingdom in 2023.

 

In 2023, the number of independent e-cigarette stores in the UK has increased by 233, reaching a total of 3,573. This statistic only includes specialized stores and does not include convenience stores or newsstands that sell e-cigarette devices and accessories. In comparison, there was an increase of 61 independent e-cigarette stores in 2022, while the number decreased by 23 in 2021. According to market research firm NIQ and industry magazine "The Grocer," e-cigarette sales in the UK reached £897 million (approximately $1.135 billion) in 2023.

 

However, due to concerns over the impact of e-cigarettes on children and the environment, the government is considering implementing new restrictions on e-cigarettes.

 

A report by the ACTION on Smoking and Health reveals that the number of children using e-cigarettes has tripled in the past three years. Among children aged 11 to 17, one in five has experimented with e-cigarettes.

 

The government announced last year its plans to further restrict smoking and e-cigarette usage. Currently, it is in the process of consulting on the suggested proposal to ban disposable e-cigarettes. Other considerations being discussed include price increases and limitations on the flavors and appearance of e-cigarettes, all aimed at reducing their appeal to children.

 

However, the e-cigarette industry insists that their products have played a crucial role in helping people quit smoking.

 

John Dunn, the General Secretary of the UK E-cigarette Industry Association, has stated that specialist e-cigarette shops play a crucial role in guiding smokers on how to effectively transition to e-cigarettes and continue on their journey towards nicotine-free alternatives.

 

He pointed out that e-cigarettes have been proven to be the most effective method for smokers to quit smoking, helping approximately 50,000 smokers quit each year. The increasing number of professional e-cigarette stores reflects the growing demand among smokers to break free from their addiction.

 

Read more on 2FIRSTS' interview with UKVIA: UKVIA Supports Stricter Policing and Fines for Illicit Vaping Products.

 

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


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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.

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