DEFRA issues reminder to retailers on June 1st deadline
The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) are today reminding retailers to deplete their stocks of single-use vapes ahead of new legislation coming into force banning their sale on June 1st.
With under two months until the ban comes into force, businesses must take action now to ensure they are prepared for its implementation. This includes ensuring all remaining stocks of single-use vapes are sold, and only buying vapes that follow the new regulations.
If businesses have any single-use vapes in their possession after 1 June 2025, they will not be able to sell them to shoppers and must ensure they are disposed of safely.
Regardless of where a business is located within the UK, it will be an offence to sell or supply, offer to sell or supply, or have in their possession to sell or supply a single-use vape from 1 June 2025. This includes both online and in-store sales. More information on the civil and criminal sanctions that can be applied can be found on the official guidance page on Gov.uk.
Coinciding with the reminder, Independent British Vape Trade Association (IBVTA) CEO, Gillian Golden stressed the need to also educate consumers on the ban:
“The DEFRA reminder to retailers today highlights the critical need for collective action in addressing the environmental impact of disposable vapes. Many retailers are already facilitating responsible disposal and recycling of these products, but there remains a pressing need to educate consumers about proper recycling practices and the alternatives available after June 1st.
“As the single-use vape ban approaches, the transition to refillable and rechargeable devices presents an invaluable opportunity to go beyond recycling. Embracing these sustainable alternatives not only reduces waste but also sets a new standard for environmentally conscious vaping.”