Most retailers want minimum legal age of tobacco purchase at 21 rather than a generational smoking ban
Eight in 10 retailers believe the government’s budget would be better spent tackling illicit tobacco rather than implementing a generation smoking ban, it has been revealed.
Results from a survey of 1,000 retailers conducted on behalf of JTI* has found that 63% of retailers would prefer raising the minimum legal age of purchase for tobacco to 21, rather than a generational smoking ban.
Retailers revealed several concerns about a proposed generational smoking ban, with 78% feeling that it would lead to more illicit tobacco in their local area. With 30% of cigarettes and 54% of hand rolling tobacco in the UK already coming from illegal and other non-duty paid sourcesi, this is a problem that the government needs to clamp down on and not exacerbate.
The survey found that eight out of 10 retailers (78%) believe the government’s budget would be better spent tackling illegal tobacco rather than on implementing a generational smoking ban, suggesting a disconnect between government priorities and those of retailers. An additional survey of JTI360 users also showed that 70% of retailers do not think enough is currently being done to tackle illicit tobacco in their area**.
With age verification one of the top reasons for violence against retailersii, understandably, retail crime was also a concern to those surveyed. Violence against retailers continues to rise at an alarming rate, almost doubling year-on-year with 76,000 incidents in 2024 vs 41,000 in 2023iii. Nearly two thirds (62%) of respondents* suggested that the proposed generational smoking ban would lead to further increase of threatening behaviour towards retailers.
Sarah Connor, Communications Director at JTI UK said: “This survey clearly identifies the concerns of the retail community regarding a potential generational smoking ban.
“At a time when convenience stores across the country are facing unprecedented levels of theft, violence and abuse, we urge the Labour Government to consider the views of retailers before implementing any new legislation. Retailers can share their concerns around the Tobacco and Vapes Bill by writing to scrutiny@parliament.uk before 7th January.
“JTI and many retailers we have spoken to are calling for an increase in the minimum age of purchase to 21 as a viable alternative to a generational smoking ban. In recent years we’ve seen sales of illicit tobacco continue to rise at an alarming rate. Whilst we welcome the proposed granting of new powers for Trading Standards, additional funding is still required so that they have the resources required to combat the ever-growing illicit tobacco trade.”
*Research conducted with 1,000 independent and symbol convenience retailers in September 2024 by Acorn Retail Promotions on behalf of JTI UK
** Survey of 1458 retailers via the JTI360 Tobacco Trade site – August/September 2024.
