Retailers selling herbal smoking products and nicotine products are now subject to the same registration requirements as retailers who sell tobacco and vaping products.
Age restrictions are also tighter than ever: anyone selling to under-18s risks fines up to £500, and, from 2027, it will be illegal to sell to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009.
Retailers must implement strict age verification policies, using only approved ID like passports, driving licences, or biometric documents, with the Scottish Government publishing new guidance to help comply.
The law also cracks down on proxy purchasing, where adults buy restricted products for minors, and bans all forms of promotional activity and substantial discounts intended to promote smoking-related products.
Vending machines offering these products are outlawed in all UK premises. Repeat offences carry escalating fixed penalty notices, beginning at £200 and rising for serial non-compliance.
Registration to the new expanded register is free and easy, either online via ScotAccount or by paper form.
Retailers can manage multiple premises under one account and print certificates as needed. Those who stop selling covered products must update the register within three months.
Comprehensive support is available through the register platform, ensuring that retailers can meet their obligations under the revised Tobacco and Vapes Act.
For more information, visit Smoking and vaping: guidance, policy and regulation - GOV.UK
