In our exclusive video, we find out what JTI is doing to tackle the problem of illicit tobacco – and how you can report issues in your local area:
JTI recently teamed up with Retail Express to conduct test purchasing of illicit tobacco in Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ constituency of Leeds West & Pudsey. We hear directly from a store in that area about the impact of the illicit trade on honest and legitimate retailers, alongside what you can do to help clamp down on the issue.
THE SCALE
Satvinder Singh, retailer, The Local, Armley: “Three stores selling illicit tobacco have opened nearby. Every day is a battle because loyal customers are going to those shops. Customers come in every day asking for cheaper cigarettes or singles. When you hear of a customer buying cigarettes for £5, you can’t say anything to them. You have to take it on the chin.”
THE IMPACT
Ian Howell, public affairs manager, JTI UK: “Illicit tobacco is a problem that was big and it’s getting bigger. For example, 54% of rolling tobacco in the UK is made up of illegal or non-duty paid sources. This figure is before the recent duty increase, so we are unfortunately anticipating further increases over the next 12 months.”
WHAT NEXT?
“Our advice to anyone is to report it by using the Citizens Advice Consumer helpline which will direct that information to Trading Standards. The number is 0808 223 1133.”
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