Retailers in Scotland have shared concerns about the prospect of a vape display ban as the Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) urges members to respond to a government consultation on packaging, flavour and display restrictions.
Saleem Sadiq, who has run his Spar store in Renfrew for more than 30 years, said: “Illicit trade is already a big problem. Illegal sellers have no scruples.
“A display ban is only going to accelerate the situation we already face.”
Spar retailer Ryan Hutchison’s family have run a convenience store in Scone, Perthshire, for almost 70 years.
Speaking about the impact of a display ban and taking the products out of sight, he said: “I think it will push people underground.
“There’s a real risk that they will get vapes which might not be regulated or the right product – as well as the risk that those illicit traders sell to children.
“Placing the products behind shutters can also cause frustrations at the till with customers explaining what they would like to buy.”
SGF is supportive of moves to reduce vaping amongst young people, but is working to ensure that any potential retail display ban does not have unintended consequences. These include fuelling illicit trade, increasing retail crime and deterring adult smokers from switching to vaping.
Pete Cheema, SGF’s Chief Executive, said: “There is no question that vaping products should not be marketed or sold to children. But government must also recognise the vital role that responsible retailers – including our members – play in preventing under-age sales and delivering effective age-verification measures.
“Regulation must be proportionate, practical, and workable. Proposals to place vaping products behind shutters could make legal products less convenient to buy without reducing underlying demand. Instead, they risk creating opportunities for illicit traders and diverting sales from responsible retailers who operate within the law.
“While the Scottish Government has acknowledged the problem of bogus vape sellers, it has failed to recognise that placing legal products behind shutters could drive more consumers towards the illicit market. Legislation must not create unintended consequences that benefit criminals and undermine responsible retailers. We believe that a retail display ban is a step too far.”
