Local businesses that sell tobacco, vaping and nicotine products are being reminded to check they are ready for a number of legislative changes coming into effect this autumn and beyond.
From 29 October 2026, retailers will no longer be able to sell any vaping or nicotine product to anyone under the age of 18. The updated age restriction will cover nicotine pouches and zero-nicotine vapes, alongside existing vaping products, and will apply to both online and face-to-face sales.
The new rules will also prohibit the sale of tobacco, vaping and nicotine products through vending machines, apart from those located in adult mental health inpatient settings in England and Wales. Businesses will also be prevented from offering these products free of charge or at heavily discounted prices as part of promotional activity.
A number of changes to tobacco, vaping and nicotine legislation are being introduced over the coming months, so it's important that retailers understand what is required of them and take steps to prepare.
With some measures coming into force immediately, businesses should ensure staff are aware of the new requirements and review any current arrangements, including vending machine sales and promotional activity, to make sure they comply with the law.
Retailers should also begin preparing for the significant changes due to take effect on 1 January next year. From that date, it will be illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009, with the legal age of sale increasing by one year each year thereafter.
These changes will require businesses to be confident in their age-verification procedures. Now is a good opportunity to review existing policies and consider whether additional measures, such as updated signage or staff training, may be needed.
Further information on the legislation affecting tobacco, vaping and nicotine products is available via the GOV.UK guidance on selling vaping and nicotine products.