More than £5,000 in fines handed out to Central Bedfordshire businesses selling illegal vapes
Thousands of vapes were seized from businesses selling harmful products in Central Bedfordshire in 2025, according to latest figures.
New data from a Freedom of Information request to Central Bedfordshire Council, obtained by Vape Superstore, revealed that 3,178 illegal vapes, e-liquids, and e-cigarettes were taken from 14 businesses trading in the area.
And of these, three were fined in 2025 – a total of £5,394.14.
This week, the council secured a three-month closure order on a shop in Dunstable found to be selling illegal vapes and tobacco products.
Cllr Liz Childs says the council takes the sale of illegal vaping products “very seriously”.
She explained: “Our Trading Standards team carries out regular, intelligence-led and unannounced inspections to identify and act against non-compliant businesses. Illegal products will be confiscated, and offenders may face prosecution, fines, or, in some cases, closure of their premises.
"Illegal vapes present clear risks to public health, particularly for young people, and tackling their sale remains a priority. We will continue to take robust enforcement action while supporting responsible retailers. If you suspect a business is selling unlawful tobacco or vape products, or supplying age-restricted products to minors, please contact the Council’s Trading Standards service anonymously."