Maidstone steps up fight against illegal vape sales with new initiative
Local authorities and 50 retailers join forces to tackle unregulated vaping issues
A new effort to combat illegal vape sales in Maidstone has been launched with the introduction of the Local Vape Action (LVA) initiative on 13th February 2026.
The LVA pilot has brought together more than 50 retailers, alongside representatives from Kent County Council Trading Standards, Kent Police, Kent Community Safety teams, and other key stakeholders.
This partnership aims to curtail the illegal sale of vapes, particularly to under 18-year-olds, by promoting responsible retail practices.
A previous ban on single-use vapes, enacted on 1st June 2025, has already seen compliance rates in pilot areas like Tunbridge Wells rise to 90%—notable improvement compared to non-pilot regions.
Jim Whiddett from Kent Trading Standards noted that over 80% of businesses comply with current vaping regulations.
He added that those who violate these standards could face "further action or even prosecution."
Bradley Gammon from vape shop, Totally Wicked, has backed the initiative stating he believes the problem comes from " stores that sell vaping products on the side".
"They may not be as educated on regulations so I'm hoping this initiative will spread the message" says Mr Gammon.
Similar initiatives were first piloted in Tunbridge Wells in September 2024 and subsequently in Ashford in May 2025.
Kent County Council and partners have collaborated with the Independent British Vape Trade Association (IBVTA) to engage retailers as well as conduct enforcement checks, such as Challenge 25 testing.
Cllr Paul Webb, Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services at KCC, says "this initiative will help the public to know they are using the right shops that have been approved."
Gillian Golden, CEO of the IBVTA, affirmed the importance of compliance, saying, "Vaping is now the most popular and effective way for adults who smoke to quit, and most retailers want to do the right thing and follow the rules."
Local authorities will continue monitoring the impact, with insights gathered informing national strategies later this year.