Almost all stores in London borough of Barking and Dagenham passed the checks during a series of test purchase operations targeting underage sale of age-restricted products like vapes, cigarettes, and alcohol, highlighting the compliance level of convenience stores and other small businesses in the region.
During the school summer holidays, Barking and Dagenham Council’s Trading Standards team joined forces with a group of young people to crack down on the illegal sale of age-restricted products to under-18s.
Out of 71 businesses tested, only four sold age-restricted items to the young people, meaning 94 per cent of businesses passed the checks.
The operations were timed to coincide with the school holidays, when data shows young people are more likely to attempt to buy these products.
Between July 20 to July 23, only two stores failed in vape sales. From July 15 to 30, one business failed in alcohol underage sales test. Later in August, out of 17 premises that were tested, one store failed in compliances.
Businesses that fail a test purchase face further investigation, which may lead to written warnings, licensing reviews, prosecutions, or closure orders.
Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety, said, “Protecting our young people from harmful products like alcohol and tobacco is a top priority. It’s reassuring to see that the vast majority of our local businesses are doing the right thing and following the rules.
“I’d also like to thank the young volunteers who took part in these operations - they’ve played a vital role in helping us keep our borough safe.”