Just 20 days to go until the Menthol Ban: JTI shares essential advice for retailers

With the Menthol and Capsule Cigarette Ban just weeks away, it is now more important than ever for retailers to ensure that they are fully prepared and have a plan in place ahead of 20th May. Here JTI shares four essential tips to ensure retailers and their staff are prepared for the impending legislation:

1. Understand the legislation. You should ensure that you and your staff are aware of the details surrounding the upcoming legislation, including what will and won’t be affected, and that you have a plan in place to remain compliant after the ban. Failure to comply could lead to a fine, imprisonment or both.
2. Product knowledge is key. You should make sure that you and your staff know about the alternative options available from 20th May and are able to communicate these to your customers.

   “JTI expects most adult smokers to stay within the cigarette category and remain brand loyal. That’s why we are launching the New Dual range – a distinctive tobacco blend in a unique dual pack, with two sections of ten cigarettes, available across brands such as Sterling, Benson & Hedges and Sovereign,” said Mark Yexley, communications director at JTI UK.

   “Of course, others will make choices based on their preferences and may seek alternatives. JTI is determined to provide those smokers with innovative new products that meet their needs. We recently launched Sterling Dual Capsule Leaf Wrapped cigarillos, which contain a peppermint capsule that smokers can click to release a menthol flavour.

   “On top of this, we have extended our Logic Compact vaping range to include nine menthol flavours and our Logic EPIQ e-liquids range to include Peppermint and Berry Mint nicotine salts and Mint Royale High VG 70/30 e-liquids. Our Nordic Spirit tobacco-free nicotine pouches are also available in a fresh mint variant, providing yet even more choice.

   “Whatever adult smokers do after the menthol ban, JTI has the alternatives covered.”

3. Communication is crucial. Existing menthol and capsule cigarette smokers might have questions about the ban. Ensure you and staff are knowledgeable so that these can be answered with confidence.
4. Finally, take advantage of valuable resources such as www.jtiadvance.co.uk/mentholban2020 which contains all the essential information retailers need, including FAQs, a comprehensive educational video and interactive training modules, which you and your staff can use to measure how prepared you are for the ban.

How will JTI support retailers?

“JTI representatives will exchange Menthol and Capsule stock held by every retailer who our sales reps visit as part of our standard 12-week call cycle. Whilst the current COVID-19 situation is clearly unprecedented, we are determined to continue to support our trade partners through this period of uncertainty,” said Ross Hennesy, sales vice president at JTI UK.

“JTI sales representatives are in constant contact with their retailers via phone to advise of the forthcoming Menthol Ban and to remind them to sell through all non-compliant stock ahead of the May 20th deadline. Should your local JTI representative not be able to visit your store immediately following the Menthol & Capsule Ban on the 20th May 2020, please ensure that you keep the JTI Menthol and Capsule stock that need swapping separate from other stock. When appropriate to do so, your JTI representative will begin visiting again so please ensure stock has been separated in readiness for their visit.

“In the meantime, should you require assistance, please either contact your JTI representative by phone, visit our trade website JTI Advance or call the Customer Care Line on 0800 163503.”