The ban on disposable single-use vapes has had an impact since it was introduced a year ago, but the fight against illegal vapes and those selling them continues for Trading Standards.
The ban’s introduction in June 2025 set out to protect young people’s health and prevent litter flooding the country’s high streets.
While the sale of single use vapes has decreased, the fight against illegal and oversized products, the shops that sell them and their sales to under 18s continues.
Last year, Staffordshire County Council’s Trading Standards service seized over 18,000 illegal vapes worth approximately £250,000. Officers also worked with Staffordshire Police and district and borough colleagues to close 13 premises selling illicit tobacco goods.
Anthony Screen, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Resilience at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“The ban on disposable vapes introduced a year ago was an important step in protecting our communities, but there is still more work to do.
“This latest result demonstrates our determination to tackle illicit trade, protect consumers and support businesses that operate within the law. Those who seek to profit from illegal products at the expense of public health, community wellbeing and our environment should be in no doubt that enforcement action will be taken.”
Officers also work with retailers to ensure they are aware of their legal responsibilities, including the requirement to operate effective age verification policies. The service also supports wider education and prevention activity, delivered with public health and community safety partners, to raise awareness of the health risks associated with vaping among children and young people.
People can report their concerns to Trading Standards on the confidential helpline on 01785 330356 or on the Trading Standards webpage.
