BAT plans to launch e-cigarette vending machines in UK pubs to sell Vuse and Velo products

BAT plans to launch e-cigarette vending machines in UK pubs to sell Vuse and Velo products

BAT plans to install vending machines in bars and pubs to sell e-cigarettes and nicotine bags to increase product sales, and will use advanced age verification technology to prevent minors from purchasing. This move has raised concerns that it may affect sales in nearby stores.

According to Better Retailing on June 18, British American Tobacco (BAT) plans to launch vending machines in bars and pubs to sell e-cigarettes and nicotine bags.

Recruitment advertisements show that BAT is recruiting at least 12 sales representatives with the goal of entering alcohol sales venues, aiming to "find new locations for vending machines and other business development solutions, and ultimately increase sales of BAT-related products."

Target areas include Basingstoke, Birmingham, Bury St Edmunds, Cambridge, Coventry, Crawley, Edinburgh, Exeter, Maidstone, Reading, Royal Tunbridge and Sevenoaks.

An e-cigarette testing company warned that restrictions would be ineffective without more resources.

The representatives will begin a six-month "trial" contract on June 24, with plans to "extend to 2025 and beyond".

Asked about this, a BAT spokesperson told Better Retailing,

"BAT UK is delighted to be involved in a project to sell our Vuse and Velo brands through age-restricted vending machines. BAT's purpose is clear: to build a better tomorrow. We will achieve this by reducing the health impact of our business, including reaching adult consumers where they use our alternative nicotine products. Vending machines represent an exciting opportunity to further our goal."

The installation of e-cigarette vending machines in pubs has raised concerns about possible underage sales. In response to how it would prevent underage purchases, BAT said: "Our machines will use state-of-the-art age verification technology to ensure this important principle is upheld."

BAT did not respond when asked about the possible impact on sales at nearby newsagents and convenience stores that sell the same BAT products.