Persistent illegal tobacco sellers ordered to close by Trading Standards team

Two local premises have been issued with more closure orders after persistent incidents of selling illegal tobacco to the public.

The orders reinforce ongoing action by the council’s trading standards team, HMRC and National Trading Standards to protect residents, support legitimate businesses and keep communities safe.

Longton Drinks Limited Vape Shop and Victoria Eastern European Food had both previously been subject to three-month closures by the city council’s trading standards team.

Since reopening, illegal activity was found to be continuing, with both shops storing and supplying illegal tobacco products.

Both premises are mini markets, which were acting as a front for selling illegal tobacco products.

Longton Vape Shop received a complaint, which led to a small seizure of illegal tobacco in January 2026, and further investigating found five test purchase of counterfeit tobacco were made despite repeated warnings.

Victoria Eastern European Food originally reopened in February 2026, but in April this year, a test purchase of counterfeit cigarettes was made, which led to a seizure of illegal tobacco.

The closure orders were granted on Thursday 21 May.

Councillor Amjid Wazir, cabinet member for city pride and enforcement at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “I welcome the closures of these two persistent offenders, who have continued to sell illegal tobacco. We will not tolerate the sale of these products in Stoke-on-Trent.

“Removing these products off our streets keep young people safe, supports honest local traders and forms part of the city council’s wider work to make our town centres family friendly and safe to live if. The message is clear – you will face serious consequences if you choose to sell products illegally.”

Anyone with concerns about illegal tobacco, vapes and underage sales can contact Trading Standards on the hotline at 01782 238884 or visit: www.stoke.gov.uk/tradingstandards