Trading Standards cracking down on illegal vapes in Stoke-on-Trent
A raid on a shop in Tunstall uncovered more than 22-thousand-pounds worth of fake ones hidden in a car
Two shops in Stoke-on-Trent have been shut down as part of an ongoing crackdown on the sale of illegal cigarettes and vapes.
Following a coordinated investigation led by Trading Standards, the shops — Mini Market on Market Street, Longton, and Market Mini Market on Market Place, Burslem — were found to be selling illicit tobacco products and vapes, including sales to an underage volunteer.
The investigation involved months of intelligence-gathering and test purchases. As a result, Stoke-on-Trent City Council issued 48-hour closure notices to both premises.
These actions were upheld on Thursday, 1 May 2025, when Newcastle Magistrates' Court granted three-month closure orders for both locations.
Councillor Amjid Wazir OBE, cabinet member for city pride, enforcement and sustainability, praised the outcome.
“This is another great result by our Trading Standards team,” he said. “These operations protect residents, support legitimate businesses, and uphold the law. We want Stoke-on-Trent to be a safe, thriving place and we won’t hesitate to take action against those who undermine the hard work of residents and legitimate businesses.”
The council has confirmed it will now work with the landlords of the closed shops to ensure only compliant, lawful businesses operate from those addresses in the future.
Residents are encouraged to report any suspected illegal activity relating to tobacco, vapes, or underage sales to the authorities.