Small businesses warn 44,000 corner shops face ‘decimation’ over Keir Starmer’s ‘crushing’ ban

The intervention comes shortly after ministers adjusted policy on business rates for pubs, with shopkeepers arguing that small retailers are facing mounting financial pressure.

The tobacco and vape category remains a key revenue stream for around 44,000 independent convenience stores nationwide, many of which are already contending with higher employer National Insurance contributions and increased business rates.

Store owners argue that further restrictions could place additional strain on already narrow margins.

Paul Cheema, owner of Malcolm’s Stores in Coventry, told GB News: "A complete ban isn't the answer – raising the legal age to 21 for all nicotine products is a sensible compromise that protects young people while keeping legitimate businesses viable.

"The real problem is the rogue traders and illicit market flooding our communities with unregulated vapes."

Retailers also said they have invested heavily in compliance systems, staff training and age verification technology in recent years.

Dee Sedani, who operates a One Stop franchise in Derbyshire, said she had spent thousands of pounds ensuring her store met regulatory requirements.

She said: "Raising the age to 21 makes sense and we'd support that fully, but a total ban will decimate small retailers like mine while doing nothing to stop kids getting vapes from illegal sellers who don't care about age limits."

Nishi Patel, who runs a Londis outlet in Dartford, added that enforcement efforts should focus on tackling illicit operators rather than introducing new restrictions for compliant businesses.

Retailers argue that unregulated products are being distributed through informal channels, including social media sellers and unmarked vehicles, bypassing established supply chains and safety standards.

The debate has also drawn political attention from Shadow Business Secretary Andrew Griffith.

Mr Griffith told The People's Channel: "While we all agree children must be protected from harmful vapes, this Government is more interested in pandering to left-wing campaign groups than supporting the businesses trying to survive under their watch."

He also accused ministers of imposing additional regulatory burdens while high street businesses continue to face rising costs.

The Conservative frontbencher said the proposed generational ban risked harming legitimate traders without sufficiently addressing the illicit market.

Shop owners have proposed raising the minimum age for purchasing nicotine products to 21 and increasing enforcement resources aimed at dismantling criminal supply networks.

They argue that such an approach would align with public health objectives while limiting the impact on compliant retailers.

Retailers also point to the role convenience stores play within local communities, particularly in areas where they provide essential services beyond retail.

Mr Patel said: "In communities like ours, small shops are a lifeline, and tobacco and vape sales are a significant part of how we stay afloat."

The Government has previously said its tobacco and vaping legislation is designed to protect young people and reduce long-term health harms, while maintaining that enforcement action against illegal products remains a priority.