ACS is urging retailers to be prepared for the implementation of the tobacco display ban.
In April 2015, stores under 3000 sq ft will have to cover their tobacco displays. Larger stores have been subject to the display ban legislation since 2012.
When the display rule comes in, smokers will continue to be able to buy their cigarettes and tobacco exactly as they do now, and the new rules will not limit availability.
Public Health Minister Jane Ellison said: “The ending of open displays of tobacco in supermarkets has already come into effect. With only five months to go before the legislation applies to all shops and businesses selling tobacco, I strongly encourage retailers to start preparing for the changes now.”
Some retailers will get support from the tobacco industry in making their displays compliant, but if not, there are a number of easy and low cost ways for retailers to achieve this.
ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “We are now less than five months away from the display ban implementation date. It is essential to be prepared early and make plans to comply with the ban, and we encourage retailers to make use of our assured advice on this issue which has detailed information on implementation, as well as what your staff need to do when the ban is in place.”
Assured Advice on the tobacco display ban is available on our website at www.acs.org.uk/advice
