Where illegal tobacco and vapes are sold
Illegal tobacco and illegal vapes and cannabis THC products can be sold through shops, homes, online accounts, pubs, markets, vehicles and local networks. You do not need proof to report a concern.
The biggest pattern is shops, but access can spread through local networks
Most reports name shops or retail premises, but illegal products are not limited to shop counters. Reports also point to homes, online sellers, pubs, markets, vehicles and informal local networks. This matters because young people may get tobacco, vapes or cannabis THC products through friends, family, older pupils, online sellers or local contacts.
74%
of UK reports name shops
Source: Latest reporting data updated May 26
11%
of UK reports reference homes
Source: Latest reporting data updated May 26
36%
of reported vape purchases by current young vapers came from friends, family or someone they knew
Source: ASH Wales Youth Vaping Survey
26%
of reported vape purchases by current young vapers came from shops
Source: ASH Wales Youth Vaping Survey
Quick answer
Illegal products are most often reported in shops, but reports can also involve homes, online sellers, pubs, markets, vehicles and local networks.
You do not need to know the full story. A place, seller, pattern or concern can still help.
Common examples
- A shop selling cheap tobacco, illegal vapes or cannabis THC products
- Products kept hidden behind the counter
- Sales through Facebook, Snapchat or messaging apps
- Products sold from homes, cars or markets
- Sales in pubs, clubs or social spaces
- Children being sold vapes or cigarettes
Places people often report
Convenience stores and newsagents
Most reports involve shops or retail premises. Warning signs can include cheap products, stock kept out of sight, sales “under the counter”, or the same shop being mentioned repeatedly.
Vape shops and mixed retailers
Some reports involve vape shops or mixed retailers selling disposable vapes, high strength products, poor quality packaging, or vapes to children.
Homes, flats and local sellers
Illegal tobacco or vapes may be sold from homes, flats or local contacts, sometimes through word of mouth or regular buyers.
Online and messaging apps
Reports can involve websites, Facebook Marketplace, Snapchat, Instagram, WhatsApp, group chats, profile pages or local delivery offers.
Pubs, clubs and social spaces
Some reports involve illegal tobacco or vapes being sold quietly through regular contacts in pubs, clubs, cafés, takeaways or other social spaces.
Markets, car boots and vehicles
Products may be sold from market stalls, car boot sales, vans, parked cars or local meeting spots. Very low prices can be a warning sign.
Still not sure what to report?
Is it only shops?
No. Shops are the most common setting, but reports can also involve homes, online sellers, pubs, markets, vehicles and local delivery.
Do I need proof?
No. A shop name, street, online account, seller, product, price, pattern or concern about children can still help.
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Are disposable vapes illegal?
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Watch: Where are illegal products sold?
Suzanne Cass, Chief Executive of ASH Wales, explains the key signs that a shop, seller or local pattern may be linked to illegal tobacco or vapes.