A Tamworth shop that had sold illegal and suspected counterfeit tobacco products has been closed for a further three months following successful court action.
Staffordshire County Council Trading Standards, alongside Staffordshire Police, supported Tamworth Borough Council in securing the three-month extension to the closure order on Market Street’s Market Convenience Store.
This follows the original closure in January 2026, after the premises became the third town centre shop in seven weeks to be shut down for selling illegal and suspected counterfeit tobacco products.
On Tuesday 28 April, Cannock Magistrates’ Court granted the extension as illegal tobacco sales linked to the premises remain an ongoing concern. The order ensures the premises will stay closed to protect the public and disrupt further criminal activity.
While Tamworth Borough Council’s powers are focused on securing closure orders to prevent ongoing harm and disruption, Staffordshire County Council Trading Standards are continuing to take separate enforcement action against the individuals responsible for the continued sale of illicit tobacco associated with the premises.
Mark Wilson, Head of Regulatory Services and Community Safety at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“The sale of illicit and illegal goods is something our Trading Standards Service are working hard to stamp out. Not only do the sale of such goods undermine legitimate businesses, but they pose serious health risks, especially to young people.
“We continue to work closely with our partners and will take tough action against those caught selling illegal goods. The extension to the closure means we can prevent further sales of these dangerous goods and keep communities safe.”
Stephen Gabriel, Chief Executive of Tamworth Borough Council, said:
“This action sends a clear message that we will not tolerate illegal trading in our town centre. The continued sale of illicit and illegal tobacco poses serious risk to public health and fuels wider criminal activity.
“We will continue working closely with our partners to take firm and decisive action against those who break the law and put our communities at risk.”
People can report the sale of illicit, illegal or counterfeit goods to Trading Standards on their confidential helpline on 01785 330356 or on the Trading Standards webpage.
