More than a year has passed since shops were banned from selling disposable vapes, but has the change made a noticeable difference in Stone?
Staffordshire County Council says the sale of single use vapes has fallen since the ban came into force on 1 June 2025.
However, Trading Standards officers are continuing to tackle banned disposable devices, illegal and oversized vapes, and retailers selling vaping products to people aged under 18.
Figures released by the county council show that its Trading Standards service seized more than 18,000 illegal vapes worth around £250,000.
No figures have been provided specifically for Stone or Stafford borough, meaning it is not clear what impact the ban has had locally.
Disposable vapes are devices which cannot be recharged or refilled. Reusable and rechargeable vapes can still be sold, provided they meet the relevant legal requirements.
Anthony Screen, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Resilience at Staffordshire County Council, said
“The ban on disposable vapes introduced a year ago was an important step in protecting our communities, but there is still more work to do.
“This latest result demonstrates our determination to tackle illicit trade, protect consumers and support businesses that operate within the law.”
ALBOS would like to hear whether Stone residents have noticed any changes since the ban.
Have you seen fewer disposable vapes being sold, less vape litter around the town, or more people moving to reusable devices? Or has there been little noticeable difference?
Readers are welcome to share their general experiences, but concerns about a particular shop, product or suspected sale to someone aged under 18 should be reported directly to Trading Standards rather than naming businesses in public comments.
Concerns can be reported confidentially through Staffordshire County Council’s Trading Standards webpage or by calling 01785 330356.
