Trafford retailers have been warned they face a £200 fine if they flout new rules around the selling of tobacco and vapes.
New Government legislation is clamping down on the purchase of the unhealthy substances, with anyone under 18 banned from buying tobacco from 1 September 2027.
The Trading Standards and Public Health teams at Trafford Council are now writing to retailers in the borough informing them of the changes and the penalties they can face for not complying with the law.
Cllr Jane Slater, Executive Member for Healthy and Independent Lives, said:
“A future with fewer people who smoke means healthier residents and healthier communities. Together we all have a role to play in improving our communities by making these changes a success.
“It is frustrating for the many responsible retailers to see dishonest ones failing to get punished. But from now on, if retailers don’t comply with the changes, our Trading Standards teams will be able to give Fixed Penalty Notices of £200 as a quick way of administering justice.
“We will not stand by and see our residents’ health put at risk.”
Changes to the law already include the redefining of the definition of tobacco products to remove any ambiguity.
From 1 October, the Vape Excise Tax will come into effect. This is followed by a ban on vending machines selling vapes or other consumer nicotine products from 29 October. At the same time, a minimum age of sale of 18 will apply to all consumer nicotine products, including nicotine pouches and additionally zero nicotine vapes. The free distribution of vapes and other consumer nicotine products will be prohibited.
These restrictions seek to protect children from becoming addicted to nicotine while ensuring these products remain available to adult smokers who use them to quit smoking.
Retailers are also being asked to help with the crackdown on illicit tobacco.
Cllr Keleigh Glenton, Executive Member for Community Safety and Civil Contingencies, said:
“If you become aware of businesses selling illicit tobacco or vapes, or selling tobacco or nicotine products illegally, please report your concerns. Thank you for your continued support.”
To report concerns, please visit the Citizens Advice website.