The Fed raises concerns about Government’s proposals for licencing of the sale of tobacco and vape products

11/12/2025

The Federation of Independent Retailers (the Fed) has said the Government’s proposals for licencing of the sale of tobacco and vape products should be carefully developed and tightly focused on rogue traders and the illicit trade whilst not imposing undue burdens on responsible retailers like Fed members, as part of a recent consultation.

The Government consultation ran until last week and formed part of the Government’s process as part of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill which included the powers to develop licencing of tobacco and vapes sales in line with those for the sale of alcohol.

National President Hetal Patel said: “The Fed is following this matter closely and our members remain open to licencing, as long as it is effective and does not impose too many costs on legitimate businesses. We are also calling on Government to ensure any changes in this area are clearly communicated and administered and does not impose large costs and upheaval for retailers who are already dealing with a range of financial pressures both commercially and from Government.”