UK Vaping Association: Vape Industry Remains Open During Pandemic
UKVIA says the UK vaping industry remains open during the pandemic, and has urged local authorities and ministers to give retailers clear guidance on closures and reopening.
The UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) is the largest trade organization representing the UK vaping industry. In an open letter to Nadhim Zahawi, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, last month, the association urged Small Business Minister Paul Scully and Public Health and Primary Care Minister Jo Churchill to allow vape shops to remain open nationwide. UKVIA pointed out that closing these shops could encourage many former smokers to return to smoking.
At the same time, the association has issued a press release reminding vaping users across the country that despite COVID-19 lockdowns, they can still access their devices. In addition to dedicated online retailers and manufacturing plants operating normally, brick-and-mortar store owners are also looking to boost sales through their websites, with many even setting up home delivery services.
Adapting to Current Circumstances
UKVIA's director John Dunne noted that the vaping industry is inherently dynamic. "The vaping business is fundamentally entrepreneurial and agile, with many companies changing their business models to continue serving customers. Online retailers are also reporting a significant increase in demand during the lockdown period."
"During these high-pressure times, it is crucial that vaping providers can offer vaping products to prevent their customers from reverting to smoking. Similarly, it allows smokers who wish to quit to turn to vaping. UKVIA has published a list of retail members offering online and home delivery services so that vapers and smokers can easily access vaping devices and e-liquids during the lockdown period."
How to Obtain Your Preferred Products
Dunne added that vapers should check the specific services offered by each retailer. "You will need to verify with each retailer the exact services and order delivery times—some operators may only deliver orders placed before 6 PM the next day."
To this end, the association has published a list of UKVIA retail members that remain open for online and home delivery services:
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