Barking and Dagenham Council’s Trading Standards team has carried out a series of underage test purchases of nicotine‑containing vapes across the borough, finding high levels of compliance among local retailers - although one business now faces further action after selling a vape to a child volunteer.
On 19 February 2026, Trading Standards officers conducted an underage test purchasing operation using 14 and 15‑year‑old volunteers. Of the 25 premises tested, only one made an illegal sale. While the council welcomes the strong compliance rate, officers emphasised that any sale of age‑restricted products to children is unacceptable and will be met with enforcement action, potentially prosecution.
Trading Standards routinely carries out test purchasing for products such as vapes, alcohol, knives and tobacco as part of its work to protect young people and ensure businesses are meeting their legal responsibilities.
Businesses are strongly encouraged to take proactive steps to prevent underage sales, including:
- Operating a Challenge 25 policy
- Displaying clear age‑restriction signage
- Using till prompts to support age checks
- Maintaining an up‑to‑date refusals register
- Providing regular training for all staff
- Keeping age‑restricted products out of reach and sight of young people
- Ensuring CCTV systems are fully maintained and operational
The council also operates a Responsible Retailer Scheme (RRS), which invites local businesses to commit voluntarily to not selling vapes to anyone under 18. Trading Standards officers regularly visit retailers to offer guidance and encourage sign‑up.
Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety: “We’re pleased to see that most retailers in the borough are taking their responsibilities seriously. However, one illegal sale is still one too many. Vapes and other age‑restricted products must not end up in the hands of children, and businesses must remain vigilant. We will always take action where the law is breached.”
Businesses seeking advice, support, or wishing to join the Responsible Retailer Scheme can contact the Trading Standards team at tradingstandards@lbbd.gov.uk.