UK Vaping and Tobacco Market Cools as Sales Drop by Over £1 Billion
The UK market for vaping and tobacco products is experiencing a significant downturn, with sales plummeting by over £1 billion ($1.3 billion) in the 12 months ending September 6. According to data from NielsenIQ, this 12.7% drop marks the steepest decline of any grocery category, signaling a decisive shift in consumer habits driven by stricter regulations and growing health awareness.
Total vaping sales fell by nearly £225 million, with popular disposable brand Elf Bar taking the hardest hit, losing almost £140 million. Rivals Lost Mary and SKE Crystal also saw declines. This trend coincides with the UK’s ban on disposable vapes, which took effect on June 1st to address environmental waste. Traditional tobacco products fared even worse, with cigarette and cigar sales dropping by £512.3 million and loose tobacco by nearly £290 million.
Conversely, smoking cessation products like gums and sprays surged by almost 24% in volume, indicating a strong move towards quitting. Julian Crane, NIQ’s managing director for the UK and Ireland, noted, “We are seeing a decisive shift towards vices such as smoking and vaping as regulations tighten and health concerns increase.” Meanwhile, healthier choices are on the rise, with fresh fruit sales growing by £580 million.
- Read more: UK Vape Market Adapts: Reusables & Pouches Surge Post-Ban
- News source: Vape and Cigarette Sales Slump Amid UK Crackdown, NielsenIQ Says
