A business in Wishaw has been prohibited from selling any tobacco or nicotine vapour products for a period of one year starting from September 24. The ban was imposed on the owner of the firm that operates as “Foodies” and “Usave” on Kirk Road, along with any employees working on his behalf. This action comes after an investigation by North Lanarkshire Council’s Trading Standards team revealed that the business had illegally sold nicotine vapour products to minors. The case led to an application to Hamilton Sheriff Court.
Before the ban was enforced, it was discovered that the owner and employees had sold NVPs to underage individuals on three separate occasions between October 2023 and May of the current year. A notice mandating the ban must be prominently displayed at the business premises for the duration of the prohibition, with the council being awarded expenses in this instance.
Michelle McKenna, the Trading Standards manager, stated, “Retailers have a responsibility to ensure they do not sell vapes to underage individuals.” She emphasised the importance of enforcing regulations to protect young people and the public health. The council is dedicated to taking necessary actions, such as issuing fixed penalty notices and pursuing banning orders when infringements occur.
Councillor Helen Loughran, who chairs the environmental services committee, reinforced the council’s commitment to supporting Trading Standards efforts to uphold the law and safeguard communities. Regular test purchases are carried out to ensure compliance by retailers in verifying the age of customers before selling age-restricted products.
In a related development, illicit tobacco was discovered in several premises in Wishaw, Airdrie, Kilsyth, Condorrat, and Bellshill during recent visits by Trading Standards. This resulted in the confiscation of 53,180 cigarettes and 17.48 kg of hand-rolling tobacco. Since July 2023, Trading Standards has been empowered to refer cases to HMRC, which can levy penalties of up to £10,000 on businesses and individuals caught selling illicit tobacco products.
This banning order serves as a strong message that the sale of age-restricted products to minors will not be tolerated. The council remains vigilant in its enforcement efforts to ensure compliance with regulations and deter unlawful practices within the community. The council’s ongoing initiatives underscore the commitment to protecting public health and maintaining law and order in the region.
In conclusion, the ban on a Wishaw business from selling tobacco and nicotine vapour products underscores the importance of upholding regulations to safeguard minors and the public from illicit activities in the sale of age-restricted products. Trading Standards will continue to actively enforce compliance and take decisive actions against those violating the law to ensure the well-being of the community.