UK Vaping Retailer Opens First Store Since Lockdown

VPZ opened a new store on July 31, its first since Covid-19 lockdowns began. The UK’s largest vaping retailer opened the shop in Bruntsfield, Edinburgh, creating five new jobs.

Headquartered in Newbridge, Edinburgh, VPZ director Doug Mutter said the company has had to adapt to the new way of life following the huge change in the retail landscape.

“We are seeing the biggest change in the retail economy in living memory and we as a company have had to be adapt in what we can offer. We understand that not all of our customers are able to travel to our stores. The High Street is having to adapt to much smaller footfall,” he stated in a release. “That is why we have opened this new store within a more residential area to ensure we can still serve our customers, without requiring them to take excessive travel. We believe this maybe a longer-term change to the marketplace and we are investing and committing to serving local communities as best we can.”

Despite the retail sector facing huge challenges the company are seeing more smokers making the switch, with record numbers of quit attempts in 2020.

“Vaping represents a huge public health opportunity and the market will continue to grow as increasing numbers of smokers recognise its effectiveness in helping people to quit smoking,” stated Mutter. “Consumer education is crucial too and our knowledgeable staff are always available with advice and support that helps make it easy for smokers to make the switch and give up cigarettes once and for all.”