tobacco retailers alliance

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Each year we undertake a survey of our members to measure the impact that the illicit tobacco trade has on their businesses. The findings for the 2008 survey show that:

17% of retailers are considering closing their business because of lost tobacco sales to the black market
81% of retailers don’t think the Government is doing enough to combat the illicit trade in tobacco
39% of retailers are aware of counterfeit tobacco being sold in their area
90% of retailers display ‘No ID No Sale’ campaign materials in their shop

Awareness

89% of retailers aware of the smuggling of tobacco products

58% aware of tobacco products being sold illegally in their area

32% have been themselves, or know of someone who has been offered smuggled goods

19% know of smugglers supplying underage smokers

Sales, Staff and the Business

58% of retailers are very concerned about the effects of cross border shopping and smuggled tobacco goods

85% report that smuggling has decreased their tobacco sales

20% claim a dramatic decrease

30% have considered reducing staff and 28% have actually cut jobs.

As a result of tobacco smuggling, 30% of retailers have considered closing their business and for 17% possible closure is still an issue

The Solution

81% don’t think the Government is doing enough to help retailers affected by smuggling

67% state the way to solve the smuggling situation is to reduce or freeze taxes

61% favour increased penalties for those caught selling

35% believe increased enforcement by HMRC would reduce the problem

75% of retailers anticipate the smuggling situation worsening over the next 12 months

Counterfeit tobacco

39% are aware of counterfeit tobacco products being sold in their area

Responsible Retailing

86% are in favour of a national ID card (91%)

90% display No ID No Sale material in their shop (86%)

80% are aware of CitizenCard, making it the best known proof of age card. Validate UK is next, with 40% recognition

70% of independent retailers see themselves as essential to their community

 


Tobacco Retailers Alliance is funded by the Tobacco Manufacturers' Association