Under the proposed Tobacco and Vapes Bill, all businesses selling vaping products will soon be required to be licensed. This new system is designed to tighten controls on illegal sales and prevent access by underage customers. Non-compliance could lead to fines, enforcement action, or loss of licence(s).
The licensing framework may include rules limiting how close vape shops can be to one another. These restrictions could therefore impact smaller, independent retailers more than larger chains, especially in busy urban areas. Shop owners should begin evaluating how these changes might affect their current and future locations as more information becomes available from the Government.
With a ban on disposable vapes already upon us, retailers have already shifted their focus to refillable products and accessories. Starter kits and pod systems have become the go-to alternatibves. Businesses must also ensure their products meet new standards for packaging and marketing—particularly avoiding designs that appeal to children. Regular reviews of what is permissible, and only sourcing your stock from reputable wholesalers, retaining records of all receipts, have become essential safeguards to prove legitimacy.
The licensing process will introduce new costs, including application and renewal fees. These expenses may be particularly challenging for smaller businesses. Retailers should start planning for these changes by reviewing their budgets and considering how to adapt their operations to remain compliant and competitive.
Make an appointment today
Please pick a date from the calendar and we can begin the process of booking you in for a consultation
Q: Why The Licensing Guys should be the licensing partner for you…?
A: These are the three biggest themes that come out of our Google Reviews: