Retailers have time to prepare before rules roll out
FOLLOWING the Tobacco & Vapes Bill receiving Royal Assent, Imperial Brands has set out the implications that the new legislation holds for retailers across the UK.
The Act, which became law on 29 April, will give Government greater powers to restrict areas of the nicotine products category across a range of products including vapes, heated tobacco, nicotine pouches and cigarette papers.
With this in mind, Imperial Brands has reminded retailer that they still have time to prepare for the incoming changes and not everything will roll out immediately.
For example, Imperial has said that restrictions on free distribution and discounting is not expected to come into force until 29 October 2026.
A number of the new rules in the legislation are set to be phased in, giving store owners ample time to prepare and ensure their stores are up-to-date once new rules come in.
The headline measure of this act is the introduction of the generational smoking ban. This will take effect from 1 January 2027 and will mean that any consumer born on or after 1 January 2009 will never legally be able to purchase nicotine products in the UK.
Other significant changes are expected to follow later in 2027 once consultation on specific matters have taken place and detailed regulations have been introduced. This will include potential restrictions on flavour descriptors for nicotine products, retail display and the introduction of a retail licensing scheme.
In line with this, Imperial Brands anticipates that the Government will also publish further guidance with a detailed implementation roadmap and timetable for further legislation. Imperials has said these tools will be critical in helping retailers to better understand how and when specific measures will take effect.
Stephen Rooney, senior government affairs manager at Imperial Brands, said: “The Tobacco and Vapes Act is a comprehensive and important piece of legislation, but it is essential that retailers understand that its impact will be phased.
“While some measures have fixed implementation dates, many of the key changes – particularly those affecting vaping and nicotine products – will be introduced later and following consultation.
“It is important that retailers take the opportunity to engage with these consultations as they come forward. Their input will be vital in ensuring that the practical realities of running a retail business are properly understood as the detailed rules are developed.
“We expect further clarity from the Government in the form of guidance and an implementation roadmap, which will allow us to support our retail partners with clear, practical advice on what they need to do and when.”
