Three shops in Stoke-on-Trent have been forced to close after a Trading Standards operation undercover the sale of illegal vapes and cigarettes.

The closures follow months of investigation, including test purchasing a co-ordinated operation to target illegal cigarettes and vapes being sold in the city.

The city council has now used its powers to issue three premises with a 48-hour closure notice.

Yesterday (Thursday 6 February 2025), Newcastle Magistrates Court made a closure order for each of the premises extended these orders for three months.

An investigation uncovered the sale of illegal cigarettes and tobacco (Stoke-on-Trent City Council).

The shops subject to the closure orders are:

• 365 Vape Shop, 127 Scotia Road, Stoke-on-Trent.
• Empire Vapes, 242 Waterloo Road, Stoke-on-Trent
• Meir Vapes, 45 Weston Road, Stoke-on-Trent

Councillor Amjid Wazir OBE, cabinet member for city pride, enforcement and sustainability for Stoke-on-Trent City Council advised: "This is another great result by our Trading Standards team. These operations protect residents, support legitimate businesses, and uphold the law.

"Businesses selling illegal goods will face serious consequences. I encourage any residents to report any suspicious activity related to illegal tobacco, vapes, or underage sales.

"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."

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READ MORE: Third bid to keep a Stoke-on-Trent café which opened without planning permission rejected

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