Posted on Thursday 18th December 2025
Vape Shop in Tamworth's town centre was found to be selling counterfeit tobacco and cigarette products.
Staffordshire County Council’s Trading Standards service have supported Staffordshire Police and Tamworth Borough Council who have secured a closure order on a second shop in Tamworth town centre.
The closure order, on the Vape Shop Mini Market on Victoria Road, is the second within two weeks.
The order was issued to safeguard the public and to prevent ongoing criminal activity linked to the premises. Action saw the shop closed and boarded with entry prohibited during the closure period.
On Wednesday 17 December, Cannock Magistrates’ Court granted an extended closure order for a further three months, following a raid of the premises on Monday that found counterfeit tobacco products being sold. The notices have been served on both the business owner and the shop landlord.
Anthony Screen, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Resilience at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“This is another great result in our joint efforts to tackle the sale of illicit and illegal goods.
“By working in partnership, we’ve been able to close yet another business that has been flouting the law. It also sends out a clear message that we do not tolerate crime on our high streets.
“These products not only undermine legitimate businesses but pose serious health risks, especially to young people. The sale of illicit tobacco and vapes is not a victimless crime. It fuels organised criminal networks and undermines the safety of our streets.”
Councillor Sarah Daniels, portfolio holder for cooperative council, community partnerships and ASB for Tamworth Borough Council, said:
“This second closure in such a short space of time sends a clear message: we will not allow illegal trading to take place in our town. Selling counterfeit tobacco is unlawful and dangerous, and we will not hesitate to intervene when businesses put people at risk.
“Our partnership approach with Staffordshire County Council and Staffordshire Police means we can move fast, gather evidence and take strong action to protect people.
“This second closure in just two weeks shows how seriously we take these offences, and our firm commitment to protecting the public and tackling illegal activity head-on. We will continue to act swiftly and decisively to safeguard our community.”
People can report the sale of illegal and counterfeit goods online at Trading Standards Report It - Staffordshire County Council or call the confidential helpline on 01785 330356.