Key developments in the Tobacco and Vapes Bill

The Tobacco and Vapes Licensing Bill 2025 has attracted significant attention as the UK Government seeks to modernise the regulation of nicotine-based products across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The Bill introduces a mandatory licensing regime for retailers and proposes new smoke‑free measures aimed at creating a “smoke‑free generation”.

Creating a smoke‑free generation

A central feature of the Bill is the phased prohibition on tobacco sales to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009. This measure aims to prevent youth uptake and gradually eliminate tobacco use over time. The legislation is expected to come into force on 1 January 2027, giving retailers time to prepare for the new compliance requirements.

Licensing requirements for retailers and staff

The Bill proposes a system closely aligned with existing alcohol licensing rules, introducing two types of licences:

• Premises Licence: Required for any location selling, displaying, or supplying nicotine-based products, including vapes and tobacco.
• Personal Licence: Individuals selling, displaying, or possessing nicotine products for sale would need a personal licence. While full details are still awaited, it is anticipated that applicants may need to pass an accredited exam, similar to alcohol licensing requirements.

Retailers familiar with alcohol licence applications are likely to recognise many of the procedural steps, including application submission, fee payment, and adherence to operating conditions.

Extending smoke-free rules to vaping

The Government is also exploring significant changes to England’s smoke‑free laws, which could see vaping prohibited inside pubs, bars, and other indoor hospitality venues. This proposal would close a long-standing legislative gap by aligning e-cigarette restrictions with existing smoke‑free rules, originally introduced in 2007.

Health Minister Ashley Dalton confirmed that the Bill will provide the necessary legal powers to extend these restrictions, while also committing to full consultation and detailed impact assessments to evaluate the economic implications for the hospitality sector.

What this means for operators

For businesses selling nicotine products, the Bill signals substantial changes ahead. Operators should be aware that:

• Retailers will require a premises licence to sell or display nicotine products.
• Staff involved in sales or handling of nicotine products will likely need a personal licence.
• Indoor hospitality venues may be required to prohibit vaping, potentially affecting customer policies and venue layouts.
• Phased tobacco sales restrictions will gradually eliminate sales to younger generations, affecting long-term product availability and business planning.

Next steps

The Tobacco and Vape Licensing Bill 2025 is still under development, with further guidance and secondary legislation expected. Stakeholders should monitor updates closely to ensure readiness for compliance once the Bill comes into force in 2027.

We will continue to provide updates as additional details, consultations, and impact assessments are released.

Please note that this information is for general guidance only and should not substitute professional legal advice. If you have specific concerns, we recommend consulting one of our legal experts.