Shops closed for selling counterfeit goods

Two shops in Spalding have been shut down by authorities after being caught selling counterfeit cigarettes and vapes as part of a joint crackdown on illegal trading in South Holland.

Nida and Max Mini Mart, both located on Winsover Road, were issued closure orders on 7 April following a planned operation involving South Holland’s Neighbourhood Policing Team, Licensing officers, and Lincolnshire County Council’s Trading Standards.

The closures were granted by Lincoln Magistrates’ Court and will remain in place for three months.

Sergeant Callum Corder of the South Holland Neighbourhood Policing Team said the action was necessary to protect local communities from the harm caused by counterfeit goods.

“We will continue working with our Trading Standards partners to tackle this behaviour,” said Sgt Corder. “We understand the public want these shops closed permanently, but current legislation only allows for a maximum three-month closure. We also work with landlords to help prevent future tenants from continuing criminal activity.”

He added: “This operation is just one part of a broader effort to combat anti-social behaviour and illegal trading in South Holland.”

Authorities are urging members of the public to report any suspicious activity or concerns about other premises potentially involved in similar offences.