UK Study Reveals: 40% of Users May Turn to Black Market Due to Ban, 26% Switch to Nicotine Pouches

Sep.30.2024
UK Study Reveals: 40% of Users May Turn to Black Market Due to Ban, 26% Switch to Nicotine Pouches
Upcoming UK E-cigarette ban prompts concern over users turning to unregulated products, study shows.

A recent study conducted by OnePoll.com for nicotine pouch brand Übbs and retailer Haypp reveals significant insights into e-cigarette users’ attitudes and behaviors ahead of new UK legislation expected in 2025. The survey, which included 1,020 e-cigarette users, found that 39% might purchase e-cigarettes from unregulated sources not subjected to official safety checks.

 

Additionally, the research uncovered that a third of the respondents anticipate an increase in their nicotine consumption. However, 22% view the impending laws as a catalyst for quitting their e-cigarette habit. Übbs commissioned the study to align with the UK government's commitment to achieving a "smoke-free Britain."

 

The forthcoming legislation aims to restrict the sale and usage of disposable e-cigarettes. Following the announcement of this ban, 24% of participants have attempted to quit e-cigarettes, while 26% have switched to alternatives such as traditional cigarettes (36%), nicotine pouches (26%), and gum (25%). Alarmingly, 85% of respondents had smoked cigarettes before switching to e-cigarettes, with 52% fearing a return to smoking once the ban is enforced.

 

Übbs spokesperson Steve McGeough expressed concern over the possibility of users reverting to smoking or purchasing unsafe, unregulated e-cigarettes. He emphasized the need for accessible, safe, and regulated alternatives like nicotine pouches to support the country’s smoke-free objectives.

 

Despite the availability of alternatives, 73% of e-cigarette users have not tried them. Among those who have, 28% prefer cigarettes, 21% are open to gum, and 25% favor nicotine pouches. Moreover, 30% of users are aware of the dangers associated with unregulated e-cigarettes, with common indicators being the absence of nicotine warning labels (41%) and emissions testing information (30%).

 

When considering alternatives, 52% prioritize the product's flavor and smell, followed by safety and quality (50%), and discretion (33%). Common frustrations with e-cigarettes include battery depletion (32%), restricted usage in specific locations (30%), and missing social interactions due to smoking breaks (23%).

 

Markus Lindbald, Haypp's spokesperson, highlighted the positive trend of users seeking safer alternatives like nicotine pouches before the ban’s implementation, suggesting such products could significantly contribute to lowering smoking rates and improving public health.

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