Convenience stores in British Columbia are pushing back against the recent ban on nicotine pouches in the province. The ban, which was announced by the B.C. government in December, prohibits the sale of all nicotine pouches, including popular brands like Zyn and Velo.
According to the B.C. Convenience Stores Association, the ban will have a significant impact on their businesses. Many convenience stores rely on the sale of nicotine pouches as a source of revenue, and the ban will result in a loss of profits for these small businesses.
In addition, the association argues that the ban is unfair and inconsistent. While nicotine pouches are being banned, other nicotine products like cigarettes and vaping products remain legal and readily available in convenience stores. This, they say, creates an uneven playing field for businesses and could potentially drive customers to purchase these products from other sources.
The B.C. government, however, stands by their decision to ban nicotine pouches. They cite health concerns as the main reason for the ban, stating that these products are not regulated and could potentially be harmful to consumers. The government also points out that nicotine pouches are not approved for sale in Canada by Health Canada.
Despite the ban, some convenience stores are still selling nicotine pouches, arguing that they have already purchased the products and need to sell them to recoup their losses. However, the B.C. government has warned that any stores found selling these products after the ban goes into effect on January 1, 2022, will face penalties.
The B.C. Convenience Stores Association is now calling on the government to reconsider the ban and work with them to find a solution that will not negatively impact their businesses. They suggest implementing stricter regulations and age restrictions for the sale of nicotine pouches, rather than an outright ban.
In the meantime, convenience stores in B.C. are preparing for the ban and looking for alternative products to sell in place of nicotine pouches. It remains to be seen how this ban will affect the convenience store industry in the province and if the government will consider revisiting their decision.
