The UK government recently issued strong enforcement measures targeting heated tobacco products (HTPs) sold and advertised in mainstream supermarkets like Sainsbury’s and Morrisons. Under the Tobacco Advertising and Promotion Act 2002, the Department of Health and Social Care has determined that in-store promotions of devices like IQOS are illegal—even though they heat instead of burn tobacco. Both supermarkets have been formally instructed to remove all advertising and point-of-sale displays of these products.
🔍 What’s Changing?
- Advertising Ban: Any promotional material for heated tobacco (posters, screens, etc.) is now considered unlawful under UK law .
- Legislative Updates: The ongoing Tobacco and Vapes Bill, currently in the House of Lords, is set to explicitly ban all tobacco and vaping advertising, ensuring no loopholes remain for HTPs.
⚖️ The Impact: UK Supermarkets & Retail Landscape
Supermarkets like Sainsbury’s and Morrisons are now racing to comply, removing ads and reviewing store layouts. Retailers nationwide are preparing for stricter age-verification, licensing, and display rules as new regulations take hold. Convenience stores could face fines of up to £2,500 per breach for errors in advertising, display, or underage sales enforcement.
✅ A Compliance-First Approach from Smart Vape Factory
With UK regulations tightening, manufacturers must ensure their products fully comply. Smart Vape Factory, based in Batam, Indonesia, offers a proactive solution:
- Regulatory Assurance: Adhering to global export standards with proper labeling, documentation, and packaging that align with UK and EU bans on advertising.
- ISO-Certified Production: Operating under ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 standards, guaranteeing high-quality policy adherence, environmental responsibility, and worker safety.
- Customizable Vaping Products: Focusing on rechargeable, open-pod and closed-pod systems (like Infantry 40 and SO1 open pods)—perfectly legal and designed to match future UK regulations.
- Export-Ready Logistics: Located in a free-trade zone, Smart Vape Factory supports comprehensive compliance in export documentation and labeling for hassle-free UK entry.
🚀 Pivot to Smart, Compliant Vaping Solutions
As heated-tobacco advertising is being phased out, brands can shift strategy toward safer, refillable vaping products that meet legal requirements. Smart Vape Factory is ready to help global brands navigate this changing landscape with legally compliant, fully customizable alternatives.
📞 Take Action Before 2025 Regulations Roll In
Position your brand ahead of the curve. Partner with Smart Vape Factory to develop compliant vaping products—ready for UK and EU markets—under advertising bans and new licensing rules.
👉 Visit smartvapefactory.com for help starting your compliant vape product transition today.