Read articles from United Kingdom

March 03, 2026 by londonlovesbusiness.com

Legal cigarette sales in the UK dropped significantly from 40.6 billion sticks in 2021 to 19.8 billion in 2025, due to a rise in excise tax. Despite stable smoking rates, tobacco duty revenues decreased from £10.4 billion to £7.9 billion. Dr. Snowdon from IEA notes a surge in the illicit tobacco market, reflecting a mismatch between declining legal sales and modest smoker reductions.

March 03, 2026 by clearingtheair.eu

Up to 770,000 UK vapers might go back to smoking if flavor choices were limited, states data by Elfbar. Fruit and sweet flavors are crucial for smoking cessation, with 63% of adult vapers using them. ASH's survey also shows 14% of vapers would relapse if flavors were confined. Vapes have helped over half of ex-smokers quit, surpassing gum and patches. Despite a ban on single-use vapes, some vapers have gone back to smoking, leading to concerns about an illicit market. Regulations should consider the impact on vaping patterns.

February 25, 2026 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

The New Nicotine Alliance, the UK’s only independent consumer charity dedicated to education about nicotine and representing nicotine users, has issued a briefing on the government’s proposed ban on vaping in public spaces, calling it “a mistake” and “an unnecessary legislative overreach for which there is no justification”. It is encouraging vapers to submit their feelings and opinions to the government as part of the official consultation.

February 25, 2026 by nnalliance.org

The government has recently launched a public consultation on a proposed ban on vaping in public places, a move that the New Nicotine Alliance considers misguided and an unnecessary extension of legislative control without sufficient evidence or justification. As a charity dedicated to promoting harm reduction, the organisation believes it is essential that the perspectives of those who understand and have experienced the benefits of safer alternatives to smoking are clearly represented in this process. Personal experiences and informed insights are seen as powerful tools in shaping balanced, evidence-based policies.

February 23, 2026 by filtermag.org

In the tobacco harm reduction (THR) debate, Clive Bates stands out for his impactful advocacy efforts. Bates, a key figure in the THR movement, is known for his no-nonsense approach and deep knowledge, challenging opposition with credible analyses. He tirelessly engages in global debates and policy-making to promote safer nicotine products. Bates criticizes the resistance to harm reduction, highlighting missed opportunities to save lives. Despite facing opposition and disinformation, he remains a strong advocate for rational policymaking in public health.

February 13, 2026 by spiked-online.com

The UK government plans to ban vaping in public places, citing health concerns about exposure to nicotine and toxicants. However, this decision is not backed by scientific evidence supporting vaping as a safer alternative to smoking. Previous reviews by Public Health England found no significant health risks from passive vaping. The proposed ban lacks justification and could deter smokers from switching to less harmful alternatives. Banning vaping without conclusive evidence of harm may infringe on personal freedoms and perpetuate misconceptions about the risks of vaping compared to smoking. A precautionary approach without substantial risk assessment could hinder tobacco harm reduction efforts.

February 05, 2026 by dailymail.co.uk

UK sales of caffeine pouches, doubling in a year, are attributed to Brits seeking quick energy boosts over coffee. Marketed on social media and available in various flavors, the pouches pose risks with high caffeine levels targeted at teens. Health professionals warn of potential addiction, health issues, and cognitive problems, especially among the youth. Easily accessible online and in stores, the pouches are less harmful than nicotine alternatives but raise concerns due to the direct bloodstream impact. Moderation of caffeine intake is essential for health benefits, unlike the larger doses the pouches may deliver. Vigilance is urged over the increasing popularity and potential dangers of these trendy alternatives.

January 30, 2026 by asiantrader.biz

The UK convenience retail sector sees the tobacco, vape, and nicotine category driving footfall and profits, despite volatility due to shifting policies, consumer behaviors, and the growing illicit trade. While cigarette sales decline, nicotine demand remains strong, leading to opportunities with modern nicotine products like pouches and vape formats. The tobacco market remains stable, though price-driven, and premium segments like roll-your-own continue to lure loyal customers. Nicotine pouches are rapidly expanding, offering retailers operational benefits. Compliance, merchandising, and understanding consumer habits are crucial, especially as the category diversifies and regulations evolve.

January 22, 2026 by clearingtheair.eu

Government-backed schemes promoting vaping have led to a significant drop in smoking rates across UK, with places like Richmond-upon-Thames achieving a 5.3% smoking rate, close to the national "smoke-free" goal. Richmond's successful Stop Smoking Service, offering free vape kits and assistance, has helped over 178 residents quit smoking in a year. This approach is supported by evidence of vaping being less harmful than cigarettes and an effective quitting aid. Similar successful initiatives, like Swap to Stop in Dorset, have helped thousands switch to vaping, showing health and financial benefits. Quitting smoking can save individuals around £285 monthly.

January 21, 2026 by medicalxpress.com

A study led by Queen Mary University of London found that smokers who quit with e-cigarettes and continue vaping may reduce the risk of relapse back to smoking. Compared to nicotine replacement therapies, e-cigarette use showed higher effectiveness in helping smokers stay smoke-free. Continuing vaping was associated with lower relapse rates, suggesting it could have a positive health impact. The study highlights the importance of further research to confirm these findings over a longer period.