JTI is punishing retailers who are selling illegal tobacco by removing their gantries.

On December 3, JTI removed its tobacco gantry from Istanbul Mini Market in Gloucester after Ali Rostam was prosecuted for selling the product in the store.

Paul Williams, UK head of corporate affairs, said: “Given the offence committed by this retailer we cannot allow the JTI display equipment which we have provided to remain in the premises. Our commitment to support the actions of HMRC and Trading Standards is steadfast and we must work together to eradicate this trend.

[pull_quote_center]Retailers’ involvement in these dishonest crimes are totally unacceptable and more can be done to eradicate the sale of illegal tobacco.[/pull_quote_center]

Rostam was prosecuted after a raid by the HMRC carried out an operation using sniffer dogs in March this year. Along with two other retailers in Gloucester, more than 6,000 cigarettes (302 packs) and 4kg (82 pouches) of hand rolling tobacco were seized by Trading Standards officers.

The latest actions further fuel Retail Express’ Smoke Them Out campaign. The title is compiling a dossier of illicit activity to take to the highest level. If you have any information about your business being damaged by the black market, please call Retail Express anonymously on 020 7689 3376.