Vape shops to lose business rates relief under new plans
Summary
The Scottish Government has announced that vape shops will lose access to business rates relief from April 1, 2027. This measure is part of wider reforms to Scotland's non-domestic rates system and aims to ensure relief policies align with public health objectives amid the sector's rapid growth. The decision follows concerns about the 2026 revaluation and excludes vape shops from the Small Business Bonus Scheme, alongside other categories like betting shops and payday lenders. Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth stated the move is necessary to ensure vape shops contribute to the high street and that the government will continue examining further reforms to keep the system fair and effective.
(Source:The Herald)