The Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) is urging Glasgow residents not to buy illicit vaping products and to report suspected illegal sellers to authorities.

The call comes after the UK-wide ban on single-use vapes came into effect on June 1, requiring all stock to be removed from shop shelves.

Read more: Single-use vape sales banned in Scotland from June 1 

Graham Watson, SGF president and a community convenience store owner, said: “As an organisation, we have significant concerns that an unintended consequence of the ban will be an increase in the illegal sale of vaping products.

“It is harmful in so many ways for illegal and unregulated products to be circulating.

“Our members work incredibly hard to champion responsible community retailing, within the law.

“Illicit supplies undermine the great work they do.

“With all of that in mind, we are asking people not to buy from illicit sellers and to share any information they have with those responsible for them to the authorities.

“If they do not have the information, they cannot act against them.”

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The SGF, which represents convenience store owners across Glasgow and the wider area, has issued new guidance to help its members comply with the updated legislation and avoid unintentional breaches.

The guidance also encourages retailers to continue using Challenge 25 policies to prevent illegal sales.

It is calling on the public to report suspected illegal vape sales to Police Scotland by calling 101.

Alternatively, information can be shared anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.