New Zealand: Vape Sales Rose 30% Due to the Pandemic
In New Zealand, sales of Alt and Vapo Haiz starter kits rose sharply during the pandemic, even as 11 Vapo stores closed. Growth came through online channels, supermarkets, service stations, and convenience stores.
Despite the closure of 11 Vapo stores nationwide, the business has been significantly impacted; however, sales of Alt and Vapo Haiz starter kits, including pens, pods, and e-liquids, have seen growth through online stores or supermarkets, service stations, and convenience retailers.<\/div>
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"We have indeed noticed a significant increase in sales of Alt and Vapo Haiz starter kits. Our call center reports that many smokers are using this time to quit smoking and are seeking advice, opting for vape products that are safer and more economical than ever before," said co-owner Ben Pryor.<\/div>
"There are a few factors at play here. People are quitting smoking because it is costly, and now many household budgets are under increasing pressure. At the same time, the threat of Covid-19 has made many smokers more aware of their respiratory health and the secondhand effects of smoking on others in the bubble," he added.<\/div>
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The business owner added that as the Health Choices Committee is set to report to Parliament on the Smokefree Environment and Regulated Products (Smoking) Amendment on June 2, lawmakers must consider the important role smoking plays in reducing smoking rates. Moreover, during the current lockdown, this has never been more crucial.<\/div>
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"Approximately 5,000 New Zealanders die each year from smoking-related diseases. Given that no New Zealander has died from vaping-related deaths, let alone reported hospitalizations, there is no doubt that Covid-19 has provided a unique opportunity for New Zealanders to quit smoking, and now many are starting to vape for their nicotine fix," he said.<\/div>
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"This timely reminder emphasizes that any new e-cigarette regulations must continue to encourage and allow smokers to make this change," Pryor added.<\/div>
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Vapo and Alt NZ's recycling program<\/div>
Meanwhile, the partnership between the two vape companies and recycling giant TerraCycle means that vapers can now responsibly dispose of their e-cigarette waste comfortably at home.<\/div>
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The first phase of the innovative program initiated by Vapo, Alt New Zealand, and TerraCycle allows vapers in New Zealand to drop off e-cigarette waste at any Vapo store in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Nelson.<\/div>
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However, starting last month, these items can also be conveniently collected from home and/or mailed. To recycle at home, interested parties must register for the program on TerraCycle and collect their waste in any available cardboard box (up to four batteries per shipment). If choosing the mailing option, senders need to print a free shipping label and then drop off the waste (with the label) at the nearest post office.<\/div>
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