UK Gov Orders Supermarkets to Stop Heated Tobacco Ads

The British government has formally contacted major supermarket chains Sainsbury’s and Morrisons, instructing them to cease all in-store advertising and promotion of heated tobacco products (HTPs). According to the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), such promotions, which have included posters and video screens for devices like Philip Morris International’s (PMI) IQOS, are in breach of the Tobacco Advertising and Promotion Act 2002.

This directive follows earlier reports in February highlighting the presence of these HTP advertisements in stores, where they were visible to children. At the time, both supermarkets contended their adverts were legal, arguing that heated tobacco products, which heat rather than burn tobacco, might not fall under the 2002 Act’s definition of a tobacco product designed to be “smoked, sniffed, sucked or chewed.” PMI also maintains its advertising has complied with all applicable laws since IQOS launched in 2016.

However, the DHSC has now clarified its position, reiterating that the Act applies to all tobacco products currently on the market. Morrisons stated it is reviewing the letter, while Sainsbury’s said it is in close contact with the government and planning its transition to comply with planned incoming legislation, likely referring to the new Tobacco and Vapes Bill. This bill, currently progressing through the House of Lords, is expected to conclusively ban all tobacco and vape advertising and sponsorship, resolving any existing legal ambiguities. Health charity Action on Smoking and Health has urged for the swift passage of this bill, citing rising youth awareness and trial of HTPs and condemning supermarkets for not complying sooner.

• News source: Sainsburys and Morrisons told to stop tobacco ads

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.

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