Sales figures of vape devices increased exponentially between May 2021 and May 2022

Retail reports show that Elf Bar benefited the most, running up huge increases in sales and therefore profits. In a single year alone, they grew over 800% in sales. As the rise in popularity of disposable vape devices grows, it is clear that this new emergence is bringing about an increase in black market fakes.

Key Takeaways:

• Huge increase in sales for disposable vape manufacturers
• Increased demand prompts rise in illegal market vape devices in the UK
• Trading Standards officials seize illegal vape products
• UK Vaping Industry Association call for £10k fine for retailers selling fakes
• Is your vape fake?

Black Market Vapes are Out There

When the Retail Technology News team investigated claims that fake social media accounts were a main selling tactic of fraudulent black market vape retailers, they found over 200 fake social media profiles selling rip off disposable vape devices. Industry experts are warning that fake vapes are flooding the market to meet demand. Up and down the country, Trading Standards authorities are seizing illegal vape devices which have not undergone sufficient safety testing.

The UK Vaping Industry Association have called for fresh regulations over the matter. They propose a £10k fine for retailers caught selling fakes, and even that they lose any approved retailer status that they had.

How to tell if your vape is fake?

The best way to make sure your vape is real is to buy from a retailer you can trust. Look for an established vape shop, not a corner store or local shop. Vape shops have reputations to maintain and links with suppliers to uphold. They want to make sure you are satisfied with the product. Find a retailer that you can trust by looking for an established business. You can also spot fakes by looking for the following things.

Labelling

If the label is misprinted, has many spelling mistakes or grammatical errors, or has blurred ink, then it is likely a fake vape device. Don’t take the risk.

Branding

Look closely at the label to find the logo and company branding. Is it the same as what you remember it being? Some counterfeiters will alter slight details to avoid copyright infringement. Is it a brand you trust? If you don’t know the brand, it may be better to look elsewhere.

Reputable Seller

Are you at a licensed, reputable seller? If you asked the person behind the counter a question about the vape, would they know the answer? If not, there’s a chance they could sell fakes without knowing the difference.

Realistic Prices

As with everything in life, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Elf Bars and other disposables come in from £5.99 upwards. Nic salts and vape juices around £3-8. If your supplier can give you £1/10ml on the best brands then those are likely to be fake brands.

Where to buy reliable vape devices in England?

If you want to buy disposable vape devices like Lost Mary, Elf Bar, or Elux, you can do so through the Vape Direct website. We have top quality named brand vape juices such as Bar Juice 5000, Ohmbrew nic salts, Double Drip, Pukka Juice and more. Shop in store or online today for a vape device you can trust, and a vaping experience you will love.