Illicit traders lost vape support

JTI (Japan Tobacco International) has taken action against sellers of illicit tobacco by removing tobacco gantries from three retail stores in the North West of England.

The removal of JTI gantries from Moorgate News in Lancaster and Lucky News in Manchester came after both retailers were found to be selling illegal tobacco products.  In the case of Lucky News in Manchester, Manchester City Council Trading Standards Officers found 1,680 illegal cigarettes, with packs on sale for as little as £6.00.

By removing the firm’s gantries, the stores also lose any support or PoS for JTI’s vape and next generation nicotine product brands.

Since 2017, JTI has removed 46 gantries across the UK, sending a clear message to irresponsible retailers that they will be caught and will face legal, financial and commercial consequences. JTI calls on other companies supplying products and services to these stores to review their relationships with them and consider if they are the type of business they want to be associated with.

Ian Howell, JTI’s fiscal and regulatory affairs manager, said: “Illicit and underage tobacco sales are not victimless crimes and are both harmful for communities across the UK. We’re committed to supporting honest retailers through our Don’t Be Complicit in Illicit campaign and microsite, which features a host of useful articles and advice to combat the illegal trade, as well as our IDentify scheme, which aims to reduce the number of independent premises ‘at risk’ of selling tobacco, vaping and other nicotine products to minors.”