Perthshire Spar owner fears vape display ban could fuel black market trade

A Perthshire shop owner fears that government proposals that would force vaping products behind shop shutters could lead to an increase in black market trading.

A consultation into how products are packaged and displayed is currently being run by the Scottish Government.

It seeks views on proposals which could lead to new rules around packaging and flavours, along with where and how products are displayed.

Ryan Hutchison, who runs a convenience store on Abbey Road in Scone, has shared his concerns that a retail display ban – equal to tobacco – could have the unintended consequence of increasing black market trade.

Speaking about the impact of taking the products out of sight, the retailer, whose family’s store has been part of the community for almost 70 years, said: “I think it will push people underground.

“There’s a real risk that they will get vapes which might not be regulated or the right product – as well as the risk that those illicit traders sell to children.

“Placing the products behind shutters can also cause frustrations at the till with customers explaining what they would like to buy.”

Ryan is a senior part of the Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) and was echoing the group’s views on the subject.

Ban could take vapes behind the counter

SGF claims they are supportive of moves to reduce vaping amongst young people, but are working to ensure that any potential retail display ban does not have unintended consequences for illicit trade, retail crime or the ability for adult cigarette smokers, who wish to quit, to switch to vaping.

Pete Cheema, SGF’s chief executive, said: “There is no question that vaping products should not be marketed or sold to children.

“But government must also recognise the vital role that responsible retailers – including our members – play in preventing under-age sales and delivering effective age-verification measures.

“Regulation must be proportionate, practical, and workable.

“Proposals to place vaping products behind shutters could make legal products less convenient to buy without reducing underlying demand.

“Instead, they risk creating opportunities for illicit traders and diverting sales from responsible retailers who operate within the law.

“While the Scottish Government has acknowledged the problem of bogus vape sellers, it has failed to recognise that placing legal products behind shutters could drive more consumers towards the illicit market.

“Legislation must not create unintended consequences that benefit criminals and undermine responsible retailers.

“We believe that a retail display ban is a step too far.”