Park Garage Group: Forecourts will benefit from more regulated vapes category
Park Garage Group anticipates that increased regulation of the vape category, including licensing and flavor restrictions, will benefit forecourt retailers.Summary
Park Garage Group’s head of operations, Ian Cawley, believes upcoming regulations in the Tobacco & Vapes Bill will positively impact forecourt owners. He stated at the National Convenience Show that measures like reducing vape flavors and implementing a licensing scheme would reduce illegal sales, stabilize prices, and improve stock control. Cawley noted the current “race to the bottom” in pricing due to widespread, unregulated sales, even in non-traditional retail locations. While supporting flavor restrictions to discourage underage sales, he questioned the effectiveness of moving vapes behind the counter. Panelists expressed concern over the upcoming vape tax in October, anticipating reduced margins and potential ‘shrinkflation’. However, nicotine pouches are emerging as a significant growth area. Despite a dip following the disposable vape ban, Park Garage Group’s vape sales have rebounded to over 9% of shop sales, and Cawley aims to stabilize the category at 9-10%.
(Source：Forecourt Trader)
