IBVTA launches age of sale guidance for vape retailers

The Independent British Vape Trade Association (IBVTA) has launched an Assured Age of Sale Guidance for vape shops and retailers of vaping products.

The guidance has been developed with Kent Trading Standards, with which the IBVTA has a Primary Authority partnership, and includes advice on compliance with all aspects of regulation such as verifying the ages of customers, preventing proxy and underage online sales, record keeping and staff training.

“We hope this comprehensive guidance will be useful not only for vaping retailers, but also trading standards enforcement officers across the country, in understanding the due diligence required,” commented Gillian Golden, IBVTA chief executive.

Primary authority enables businesses to form a legal partnership with one local authority, which then provides assured and tailored advice on complying regulations that other local regulators must respect. A primary authority can block an enforcement action if the business was following the advice issued by it. Businesses can also join via trade associations in what is known as co-ordinated partnership.

Wendy May, an official with the Kent Trading Standards, said: “It has been a rewarding experience working in partnership with the IBVTA to produce this Age of Sale Guidance, ensuring accurate information is available for their members and all retailers of vaping products.”

The advice within the guidance will be useful to vape shops, convenience stores, and any other retail outlets that carry vaping products such as phone and gift shops.

The legal protection of the Co-ordinated Primary Authority Partnership Scheme only applies to members of the IBVTA.