People in Renfrewshire are being urged to help shut down supplies of illegal vapes.
The Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) is urging residents who use vapes not to buy from illegal sellers. They also want people to report anyone they suspect of selling vapes illegally to trading standards, the police, or Crimestoppers.
Single-use vapes were banned across the UK on 1st June, and shops had to remove all stock immediately.
SGF President Graham Watson, himself a community convenience store owner, said: “As an organisation, we have significant concerns that an unintended consequence of the ban will be an increase in the illegal sale of vaping products.
“It is harmful in so many ways for illegal and unregulated products to be circulating.
“Our members work incredibly hard to champion responsible community retailing, within the law. Illicit supplies undermine the great work they do.
“With all of that in mind, we are asking people not to buy from illicit sellers and to share any information they have with those responsible for them to the authorities. If they do not have the information, they cannot act against them.”
SGF is asking people not to buy illegal vapes and to report any suspicious sales. Without information, authorities cannot take action.
The group has provided guidance to retailers on following the new law and avoiding illegal sales, including the Challenge 25 policy.
To report illegal vape sales, call Police Scotland on 101 or share details anonymously with Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.