The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has launched an extended version of its ‘Selling Vapes Responsibly’ guide to support retailers with the transition away from disposable vapes ahead of a ban on the products on 1 June 2025.
The guide is produced with Bucks and Surrey Trading Standards as assured advice, which means that retailers can rely on this advice and the interpretations of how to comply with the new regulations, said the ACS.
The new guidance outlines the features that vapes need to have to be legal for sale from June 1st, as well as what to do with any disposable vapes that are unsold when the ban comes into force.
Vapes that are legal to sell from 1 June must be chargeable and refillable, as opposed to disposable vapes which are intended for a single use and are limited to 2ml of vape liquid.
Anyone selling disposable vapes from after the ban could be subject to a £200 fixed penalty notice, followed by further enforcement action if illicit activity continues.
ACS chief executive James Lowman said the introduction of a ban on disposable vapes next year will mark a major change for thousands of retailers that currently stock these products.
“We have produced this guide to help retailers with the transition and ensure that nobody falls on the wrong side of the law on June 1st,” said James. “It is important that any retailer selling vapes not only prepares themselves for the change, but also communicates with customers on the implications of the ban to avoid any potential confrontations or flashpoints in store.
“By having this advice assured as part of our award-winning scheme with Bucks and Surrey Trading Standards, retailers can have confidence that following this guidance will see them operating legally and without fear of prosecution.”
Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh said: “Single-use vapes are a major source of litter and waste precious resources, which is why we are banning them from June 2025.We are working with local authorities, trading standards, and industry organisations to help businesses prepare for the ban, and we welcome this guidance to support the transition.”
The ACS’ guide sets out all of the requirements on retailers when taking back used vapes, storing them in their business and arranging for regular collection so that they can be recycled.
It also includes advice for retailers on how to spot an illicit product, with information on all of the things to look out for on the packaging and where to check the list of legitimate products, as well as advice on preventing underage sales and the use of Challenge25 to support colleagues.
You can access the full guide and posters to display in your store to communicate the ban to customers here.
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