19 November 2024 – The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has released an extended edition of its Selling Vapes Responsibly guide to help retailers prepare for the upcoming ban on disposable vapes, which will take effect on 1 June 2025.
Developed in partnership with Bucks and Surrey Trading Standards, the guide provides assured advice, ensuring that retailers can rely on its guidance to remain compliant with the new regulations.
Key Updates in the Guide
The updated guidance outlines critical steps for retailers to transition away from disposable vapes, including:
- New Legal Requirements: From 1 June 2025, only vapes that are chargeable and refillable will be legal for sale. Disposable vapes, which are designed for single use and limited to 2ml of vape liquid, will no longer be allowed.
- Unsold Stock: Instructions on managing unsold disposable vapes to ensure compliance with the ban.
- Enforcement: Retailers selling disposable vapes after the ban could face a £200 fixed penalty notice, with further enforcement action for continued violations.
ACS Chief Executive James Lowman emphasized the importance of the guide in helping retailers navigate this significant regulatory shift.
“The ban on disposable vapes marks a major change for thousands of retailers. This guide will ensure businesses are prepared, operate legally, and communicate effectively with customers to avoid disputes,” Lowman said.
Addressing Environmental Concerns
The move to ban disposable vapes aligns with government efforts to tackle environmental issues. Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh highlighted the impact of single-use vapes on waste and litter.
“Single-use vapes are a significant source of litter and squander valuable resources. This ban is a critical step toward sustainability,” Creagh said. “We welcome the ACS guidance as a vital tool to support businesses through the transition.”
Supporting Retailers with Practical Advice
The Selling Vapes Responsibly guide includes:
- Recycling Procedures: Advice on taking back used vapes, proper storage, and organizing regular collections for recycling.
- Illicit Products: Tips on identifying counterfeit or unregulated vapes, with detailed information on packaging checks and legitimate product lists.
- Preventing Underage Sales: Reinforcement of best practices, including the use of Challenge25 to verify customers’ ages and safeguard against underage sales.
Retailers are encouraged to display the ACS posters available through the guide to inform customers about the ban and minimize potential in-store conflicts.
Access the Full Guide
Retailers can access the Selling Vapes Responsibly guide and accompanying resources, including customer communication materials, on the ACS website at https://www.acs.org.uk/advice/selling-vapes.
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