Liverpool shop closed again for illegal vape and cigarette sales

A Liverpool shop has been shut down following a persistent illicit vape sales investigation by the City Council.

County Road shop closed for third time

Liverpool City Council has secured a three-month closure order for a premises at 242 County Road. The shop, currently trading as American Candy, was found to be illegally selling vapes and cigarettes. This marks the third time the same location has been closed under different owners since late 2023. Courts have ordered the current owners to pay £1,988 in costs to the Council.

A history of illegal activity

The premises first closed in November 2023 as Local Extra Mini Market. Officers found illicit products hidden in professionally installed concealments within walls and ceilings. Despite changing hands, the shop was closed again in May 2024 for similar offences. This is the first time a single premises has been closed on three separate occasions following investigations by Public Protection Enforcement officers.

Health risks of illicit vape sales

Unregulated vapes and tobacco products often contain banned ingredients and pose a serious risk to users. To protect the public, the Council enforces strict safety requirements for all e-cigarettes sold in the city. These rules are designed to prevent the sale of oversized tanks and high-strength nicotine liquids that have not been safety-tested.

Councillor Harry Doyle, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture said: “Vapes can play a genuine role in helping people quit smoking, but only when they meet strict safety standards.” He added that the council will not hesitate to act against businesses that "undermine public health."

How to spot and report illegal vapes

Residents are reminded that legal e-cigarette tanks are restricted to a 2ml capacity, roughly 600 puffs. Nicotine-containing e-liquids must not exceed 10ml in volume or a strength of 20mg/ml. If a shop is suspected of selling illicit vape sales or age-restricted items to minors, it should be reported via the Council website or Crimestoppers.

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