ACS is encouraging all convenience store retailers that sell tobacco to apply for the codes they need to comply with upcoming track and trace regulations.
From today (30th April), all retailers, including those with one site, will be able to apply for the codes that they need to be able to purchase compliant tobacco after the regulations come into force next month.
The regulations require retailers to have an Economic Operator Identifier Code (registered to their business) and a Facility Identifier Code (for each of their stores) in order to purchase compliant cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco products from 20th May 2019.
Retailers can apply for their Economic Operator Identifier Code here: https://eutpd.uk.delarue.com. The application for EOIC and FIC(s) is a two-step process. First, retailers will need to create an account to apply for their Economic Operator Identifier Code. Once this code has been received by email (which may take up to two working days) retailers can then apply for their Facility Identifier Code(s) by logging into the web portal.
Retailers with a large number of sites should also apply to the government appointed ID issuer, De La Rue, as soon as possible. To apply for their Facility Identifier Codes, retailers with multiple sites can request a bulk upload form by emailing [email protected].
The intention of the track and trace regulations is to ensure that legitimate tobacco products can be tracked through the supply chain, and that only retailers who have registered for codes for their business can purchase legitimate tobacco. The UK lost around £2.5bn to the illicit tobacco market in 2016/17, so the regulations are an important part of the fight against criminals buying and selling illegitimate products.
At any time, if you suspect another business in your area selling illicit tobacco, or you have been approached to purchase illicit tobacco, you should call the HMRC fraud hotline on 0800 788 887.
ACS’ guidance on track and trace, which includes information about the application process, is available to download here: http://bit.ly/trackandtraceguide
