Parliament has confirmed a ban on the sale and supply of disposable vapes in England and Wales, effective from June next year, impacting retailers and vape manufacturers nationwide. Waitrose, noted for its decision to never stock these products, has endorsed the government’s initiative.
Charlotte Di Cello, the commercial director of Waitrose, has expressed the supermarket’s full support for the impending legislation. “As the only UK supermarket that decided never to sell disposable vapes, we absolutely support the government’s ban,” she stated, highlighting a firm stance against these products.
The decision comes amidst growing concerns about the environmental impact and health risks associated with disposable vapes. Di Cello emphasised the prevalence of these devices among younger, non-smoking demographics, describing them as an “environmental nightmare,” with over five million units discarded weekly. Such waste significantly contributes to landfill, posing a danger to the environment.
Waitrose’s position on the matter was solidified in December 2022 when the supermarket pledged not to stock disposable vapes. The move drew criticism from some online vape retailers, who accused Waitrose of exhibiting ‘woke hypocrisy,’ a charge that did not deter the supermarket’s commitment to its environmental and health standards.
The government’s decision to implement this ban reflects rising awareness and concern over both the public health implications and the ecological footprint of disposable vapes. The hope is that this collective action will protect younger generations and reduce hazardous waste. Di Cello expressed optimism about the move, stating, “We look forward to finally seeing collective action to help protect young people and prevent unnecessary and dangerous waste going to landfill.”
As Waitrose stands firm in its support of the legislative ban on disposable vapes, the supermarket reinforces its commitment to health and environmental sustainability. This move signifies a step towards reducing the harmful impact of disposable vapes on both people and the planet.
