BAT UK is encouraging retailers to have their say as the Government launches its consultation on proposed regulations for vaping products, nicotine pouches and other nicotine products.
The consultation seeks views on a range of proposals, including restrictions on displays, packaging and flavour descriptions, as well as wider measures designed to prevent youth access to nicotine products.
The consultation process represents an opportunity for retailers to help make sure new regulations are practical, proportionate and effective.
The implementation of this regulation will have a significant impact on day-to-day store operations.
For example, the Government is proposing a six-month implementation period for a display ban covering nicotine products, a significant operational change which many retailers will need time to plan for.
The potential financial implications are also notable. The Government's own impact assessment suggests that, by 2036, vape retailers alone could face profit losses of more than £420 million linked to proposed changes to point-of-sale displays.
For many retailers that rely on nicotine products as part of a balanced product mix, this highlights the real and material impact these decisions could have at store level and reinforces the importance of retailers engaging with the consultation process.
The company is also reminding retailers that compliance remains more important than ever as the sector prepares for significant legislative changes beyond those outlined above, including the new vape tax, the future introduction of a retail licensing scheme and the Generational Smoking Ban from January 2027.
BAT UK Territory Managers will continue to support retailers throughout the regulatory transition by providing guidance on new requirements, supporting staff training and helping stores prepare for future changes.
Retailers are encouraged to respond directly to the Government’s consultation and ensure their views are heard before decisions are finalised.
Tolga Kilic, Managing Director of BAT UK BAT UK
Tolga Kilic, Commercial Director at BAT UK, said: “Retailers have invaluable experience of how these products are sold and how regulations work in practice. Their feedback can help ensure that any future measures are sensible and avoid unintended consequences for responsible businesses.
"We support targeted action to prevent youth access to nicotine products, including robust age verification, retail licensing and measures to restrict child-appealing product names, flavour descriptors and marketing. However, regulation must also ensure that adult smokers remain aware of, and have access to, reduced-risk alternatives to cigarettes.
"Measures such as packaging restrictions, display bans and limits on product communications could have significant implications for retailers and for adult consumers seeking alternatives to smoking. It is therefore essential that Government carefully considers evidence from those who will be responsible for implementing these changes in practice.
"We strongly encourage retailers to take part in the consultation and make their voices heard before the Government takes final decisions."
The consultation can be accessed here: Tobacco and vapes: packaging, appearance and display