Relx calls on vape firms, retailers to amp up youth prevention measures

Leading vape company Relx International has appealed the industry, both manufacturers and retailers, to implement stricter measures to abide by youth prevention laws in 2023.

The call to action ahead of the new year follows a leading initiative by Relx aimed at preventing the use of vape products by minors.

The company-wide initiative called the Guardian Program stretches from product development to sales- preventing and discouraging the misuse of vape products by minors through a series of tangible measures.

This includes concerted efforts with retailers to step up on-site identification and working closely with stakeholders and business partners to maximise the positive influence of the Program, through proactive training to ensure strict compliance throughout the value chain.

“Preventing the misuse of vaping products is a challenge that manufacturers and retailers alike must face head-on in 2023,” Chris Aikens, external affairs manager in Europe for Relx International, said.

“At Relx, we are seeking to overcome this by implementing stricter measures to abide by the law and prevent the sale of vape products to this consumer group. The Guardian Program proudly places us at the forefront of youth prevention, representing a commitment to do everything we can to prevent and discourage the misuse of vape products by minors. “

Relx also ensures its products are not designed, marketed, or sold to underaged users by refusing to use marketing strategies, such as cartoons or terminology, that might appeal to the youth demographic.

Similarly, the company maintains a partnership with VerifyMyAge to implement a seamless age verification solution on its UK e-commerce website, through which age verification is performed with no disruption to users’ shopping experience.

“As the industry continues to grow, it faces new challenges,” Aikens added.

“And while our Program is a positive step in the right direction, the industry as a whole has a long way to go to catch up. That’s why, ahead of the year, we are urging manufacturers and retailers to adopt more robust youth prevention initiatives.

“We’re confident that we have put appropriate measures in place to mitigate the problems we face – but understand that more work is required across the board to help stamp these issues out for good.”