Changes for retailers under the Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026
North Northamptonshire Trading Standards is reminding retailers about upcoming changes under the Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026. The new legislation introduces measures to reduce access to tobacco, vaping and nicotine products for under-18s, alongside new enforcement powers.
Changes from 29 October 2026
From 29 October 2026, North Northamptonshire Trading Standards may issue Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) for:
- selling vaping or nicotine products to anyone under 18, including nicotine pouches
- breaching restrictions on the free distribution or discounting of relevant products
Retailers should ensure staff are aware of the new requirements and follow appropriate age-verification procedures.
Read guidance on selling vaping and nicotine products.
Changes from 1 January 2027
From 1 January 2027, retailers must not sell tobacco products, herbal smoking products or cigarette papers to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009.
Read guidance on selling tobacco, herbal smoking products and cigarette papers.
New tobacco age-of-sale notice
Retailers must replace the current tobacco age-of-sale notice with a poster stating:
"It is illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009."
A copy of the poster and retailer guidance
Failure to display the correct notice may result in a £200 Fixed Penalty Notice.
Other requirements
Retailers should also be aware of requirements relating to:
- display and price display restrictions for tobacco, vaping and nicotine products
- other measures introduced under the Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026
Enforcement
Failure to comply with the new requirements from 29 October 2026 or 1 January 2027 may result in enforcement action, including a £200 Fixed Penalty Notice and, where appropriate, prosecution if the penalty is not paid.
Read additional guidance on tobacco, vaping and nicotine products: fixed penalty notices.
Last updated 13 October 2026