Quarter of vape users have stockpiled ahead of upcoming ban

Ahead of Sunday’s impending ban on disposable vapes, a quarter of users have been stockpiling the soon-to-be prohibited product. A survey of 1,000 adult disposable vape users revealed they have amassed a nine-week supply. Over half expressed worry about the ban, with 38% fearing potential withdrawal symptoms. Furthermore, 42% are ‘likely’ to turn to unregulated black market vapes once disposable options vanish from shops.

According to the survey, disposable vape users have been spending an average of £41 per month on the product, using approximately 13 devices during that period. So while 36% oppose the ban, according to the research, 40% are in support of the decision. Since the announcement of the ban, 47% have tried to cut down their usage before the disposable devices are permanently removed. Yet, 15% confess they have been ‘unsuccessful’ in their attempts.

A representative for übbs Pouches, who commissioned the research stated: “For those who use disposable vapes, there’s no getting away from it, and while many of those polled have stocked up on supplies in anticipation of the ban, they won’t last forever.

“For those worried about transitioning away from disposables there are plenty of alternative options which are regulated – but unregulated options should be avoided.”

In anticipation of the ban, most respondents have experimented with alternatives to disposable vapes, such as refillable vapes, nicotine gum, nicotine patches, and nicotine pouches.

The survey, conducted by OnePoll, revealed that convenience (61%), flavour variety (53%), and taste (49%) are key factors for people’s use of disposable vapes.

A spokesperson for übbs Pouches added: “The vast majority of disposable vape users have taken steps to move away from throw-away options.

“And with a range of viable substitutes legally available, hopefully the ban won’t be too much of a shock for them.”