Three shops ordered to close for selling illicit tobacco and vape products

Three shops in Bromsgrove have been ordered to close by magistrates after investigators discovered they were selling illegal products.

The closures have been funded by Worcestershire County Council Public Health, Bromsgrove District Council, Redditch Borough Council and the Police and Crime Commissioner. They were carried out by Worcestershire Trading Standards officers, supported by West Mercia Police and Worcestershire Regulatory Services (WRS).

The three premises closed include European Mini-Market on The Strand, Zam Zam Shop on the High Street and WK Groceries on New Road.

Following court hearings yesterday (Thursday 20 November), magistrates issued orders to extend the closures for European Mini Market and Zam Zam Shop for three months.

WK Groceries’ court proceedings have been adjourned but the shop will remain closed until a future date is set.

Kidderminster Magistrates Court heard how test purchasing and inspections at the three premises identified ongoing illegal activities. The value of the illicit products totalled around £23,000, but if the equivalent compliant items had been sold lawfully the worth would be over £45,000.

Bromsgrove District Councillor Kit Taylor, whose portfolio covers licensing and Worcestershire Regulatory Services, said: “This is a great example of partners working together to support their communities. Residents can be reassured that we are listening to their concerns and acting on their behalf.”

Councillor Ian Cresswell, Worcestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Communities said: “We thank Bromsgrove colleagues for their support in this work.

“Not only are these organised criminal activities but, at less than £5 a pack, the presence of these products in our communities undermines the work of our Public Health team in continuing to drive down smoking rates.

“Tobacco use continues to be a huge part in the difference in life outcomes for our different communities, so our Trading Standards Officers will continue to tackle illicit tobacco wherever it appears across Worcestershire.”

Police Sergeant Sonny Wright of Bromsgrove Police said: “The black market of illegal products takes revenue away from the legitimate sales of legal tobacco and vapes by law-abiding retailers.

“We will continue working with partners to visit stores suspected of selling counterfeit products to shield our communities from harm and act where appropriate.”

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: "Local communities deserve businesses that operate legally and responsibly, and I share their frustration when that trust is broken.
“These latest closures send a clear message that crime will not be tolerated in West Mercia.”