Half of convenience and vape stores in some areas linked to organised crime

Mark Oates, founder of We Vape, said: “As the Tobacco and Vapes Act passes into law, this data serves as a stark warning that legislation without enforcement is merely a paper shield.

“On the front lines, Trading Standards are critically under-resourced, and we have seen first-hand how rogue retailers continue to profit from selling illicit products to children with impunity.

“The Government must now step up with ring-fenced funding to stamp out these bad actors, or they risk allowing a reckless minority to tarnish the reputation of all smoke-free products that are helping millions of adults quit cigarettes.”