Illegal vape sales to teens are on the rise across the UK — and it's becoming a serious issue in towns like Halesowen.

As a responsible vape retailer, we’ve seen this first-hand. This blog discusses what’s happening, why it matters, and what we all need to know.

What’s Going On?

One of the biggest challenges right now is how easily underage users can get hold of vapes.

Many shops and online retailers don’t carry out proper age verification, and in some cases, teenagers are buying vapes in-store or via marketplaces without showing any ID.

On the high street, certain stalls or shops skip steps altogether — especially when it comes to single-use disposable vapes, which are often colourful, sweet-flavoured, and clearly designed to appeal to younger users.

These sellers aren’t just breaking the law for a quick profit — they’re also creating a bigger problem for responsible retailers who follow the rules.

Why Is It a Big Deal?

You might think: “It’s just harmless fun. We were all teenagers once, right?”

But the reality is different today:

• Health risks: Vaping is not risk-free, especially for underage users whose bodies and brains are still developing.

• Fake products: The shops selling to teens may also be selling fake or unregulated vapes, which can contain unknown chemicals or dangerous build quality.

• Reputation damage: It damages the public’s trust in the entire vape industry — especially for those of us focused on helping adult smokers quit responsibly.

According to ASH UK, over 20% of 11–17-year-olds have tried vaping, and most say they got their devices from shops or friends.

This matters — not just to us as retailers, but to parents, teachers, and the wider community. If we don’t address the root cause now, trust in legal vape sales will continue to drop.

What We’re Seeing in Halesowen

Here in Halesowen, we’ve had teens walk into our store attempting to buy vapes without ID — and some even admit they’ve bought elsewhere with no age checks whatsoever.

It’s frustrating, especially when we go above and beyond to follow the law and protect the community.

Speaking to other local retailers and residents, we’re all noticing the same thing:

• More teens out late

• Littering of disposable vapes on the streets

• A growing sense that this is becoming a real problem

What Needs to Change

We need:

• More enforcement and stronger penalties for retailers who skip ID checks.

• Tighter control over online platforms that sell to underage users.

• A licensing scheme, similar to what we have for alcohol and tobacco.

• Regular spot checks, mystery shoppers, and clearer national guidance.

This would help responsible vape shops stand out, and stop bad actors from ruining it for everyone else.

What We Do as a Responsible Vape Shop

At our store, we follow a strict Challenge 25 policy. That means we ask for ID from anyone who looks under 25 — no exceptions.

All of our staff are trained to:

• Refuse sales to anyone who can’t prove they’re over 18

• Log every refusal for accountability and review

Our goal is simple: help adult smokers switch to vaping safely and legally.
We have zero interest in selling to kids or anyone misusing our products.

Tips for Parents & Teens

If you’re a parent, it’s not always easy to tell if your child is vaping. Here are a few signs to look out for:

• Unusual sweet smells

• Hidden disposable pens in drawers, pockets, or bags

• Increased secrecy or use of slang terms related to vaping

Illegal vapes often look flashy, have cartoon-style packaging, or lack proper warning labels.

If you’re unsure, talk to your child openly — or reach out to a trusted local vape shop (like us) for honest advice.

Education and open conversations go a long way toward keeping teens safe.

Final Thoughts

As a vape retailer, I care about doing things the right way — and I care about the impact illegal sales have on our community.

Let’s support the businesses that follow the rules and make sure vaping is used for what it was meant to be: helping adult smokers quit smoking for good.

If you’d like to know more about:

• Safe, legal vaping

• Spotting fake or illegal vape products

• Or just need help quitting smoking the right way

Visit us in-store or check out our resources at ThunderVapes.co.uk.
We're always happy to help.