Vaping in the UK is currently in a huge period of transformation. Not only has the disposable vape ban (which came into action on 1 June 2025) already brought along a wave of innovation, but the ongoing Tobacco and Vapes Bill and the Vaping Products Duty are also expected to bring some major changes to the landscape.
Acclimatise yourself to these changes with Evapo, where you will always have access to compliant, high-quality, and sustainable solutions – as well as the facts you need to make informed choices. Read on to find out more about new regulations in vaping, the shift to reusable devices, and the broader industry outlook.
The new regulatory reality: what is changing in UK vaping Law?
Get up to date with recent changes in law as well as potential new legislation and regulations.
The disposable vape ban: now in effect
The ban on the sale and supply of disposable vapes is now in full effect and no reputable vape shop should be selling or supplying disposables, as of 1 June 2025. The ban was introduced for a number of reasons, including the UK Government’s concerns over youth access, environmental waste, and illicit market activity.
These changes in regulation have already had a big effect on the market. In the run up to the ban, many top vaping manufacturers started to design reusable vapes that closely replicate the experience of using a disposable, but with replaceable prefilled pods and rechargeable batteries. These alternatives to disposable vapes are helping smooth the transition from disposable to reusable vapes.
Prefilled pod kits, and especially reusable big puff vapes, have quickly become an extremely popular option, partly because they offer such a similar experience to disposables – and are even more cost effective than disposables once were.
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill: shaping the long-term future
The single-use vape ban is not the only thing bringing about big changes, The Tobacco and Vapes Bill is also likely to make waves. This comprehensive bill currently progressing through Parliament introduces significant new powers for both tobacco and vaping, including the Generational Tobacco Ban. This would see those born on or after Jan 1 2009 never able to legally buy tobacco from Jan 2027.
The Bill also seeks to introduce additional powers to regulate vape flavours, packaging, and in-store displays to reduce youth appeal. At Evapo, we are committed to offering a diverse range of compliant, adult-focused flavours and upholding the highest standards when it comes to the sale of vapes. We welcome stricter enforcement against underage sales and potential retail licensing for tobacco/vape products, further professionalising the sector. You can find out more about our stance in our blog explaining The Tobacco and Vapes Bill.
The Bill is not actually going to introduce any of the stated restrictions (such as packaging, in-store displays, flavours etc.) but is just to gain the powers to regulate these things. Any further restrictions or regulations would need to be passed through in their own right, and would be subject to further consultation. Throughout this process, we and others within the vaping community have been lobbying to ensure that the need to protect young people is balanced with the need to ensure adult users have access to effective alternatives to smoking.
The Vaping Products Duty: higher costs on the horizon
Another change on the horizon is the Vaping Products Duty, which is expected to come into play in October 2026. This new excise duty will result in higher costs for e-liquids, currently anticipated to be a rate of £2.20 per 10ml of e-liquid, and will be the same across all nicotine strengths, including nicotine-free e-liquids.
The tax will directly increase e-liquid costs, further strengthening the economic case for reusable vaping systems, which are a more cost-effective method of vaping. The price of tobacco products will be increased in line with this change, ensuring that vaping remains a substantially cheaper option than smoking.
One of the biggest changes the tax is likely to bring is the end of short fill e-liquids, as they will become less economically beneficial for customers. We expect to see many big vaping brands bringing out 10ml alternatives in the coming year.
We take a closer look at the Vaping Product Duty in our post ‘Are the Government introducing a vape tax?’
The reusable revolution: why it’s the future of vaping
With the disposable ban in place and the upcoming rise in the cost of e-liquid, now is the era of the reusable vape. Not only do they offer a more cost-effective option, but they are better for the environment too.
Embracing cost-effectiveness
While the initial outlay for a reusable vape may be slightly higher than those previously offered by disposables, the long-term savings are substantial. A reusable kit works out much cheaper than a disposable alternative, because you will only need to replace the e-liquid, prefilled pods and/or refills, depending on the device you use.
Refillable kits do not have pods that need to be replaced every time they are empty, but they will need to have their coil or pod replaced periodically as the coil starts to burn out. Overall, it is much cheaper than replacing the whole device every time the e-liquid runs out.
Environmental responsibility
Many vapers are also enjoying the switch to reusable vapes due to the benefits to the environment, with reusable options creating much less landfill in terms of batteries and plastic waste.
The switch to reusable batteries means that each battery is designed to have a significantly longer lifespan, so that a much lower number will be disposed of. This saves vital resources from ending up in landfill as well as helping to cut down on the risk of fires and environmental harm from damaged or improperly discarded batteries.
The increase in popularity of big puff vapes can also drive a reduction in plastic waste. As one 12ml big puff vape can hold as much e-liquid as that of six 2ml prefilled pods, without using as much plastic and with the need of only one coil. That said, refillable vape kits remain the most sustainable option.
Enhanced vaping experience
The move to reusable and refillable vapes can also result in an enhanced vaping experience for the user. These types of kit offer a greater array of choice over everything from e-liquid flavours to nicotine strengths and nicotine types. They also offer potential for better vapour production, flavour clarity, and battery life. What’s more, reusable devices are generally more robust and durable than their disposable alternatives would have been.
Reusable vapes offer another great advantage over disposables – they make it much easier to tailor your vaping experience. For example, you could choose a device with refillable pods that allow you to reduce your nicotine intake slowly. Or you could experiment with different airflow and power outputs, to find the vapour production and inhale that suits you best. This degree of flexibility can help you create the most familiar, comfortable and effective set-up to suit your needs, giving you the best chance at successfully remaining smoke-free.
Innovation driving the market forward
Vaping brands have responded to the various changes in legislation and consumer preference with a huge upsurge of innovation in reusable vape technology.
Advanced device features
The biggest brands anticipated the disposable vape ban and understood what it would mean for consumers and so a wide range of user-friendly reusable vapes have been designed and released. The emergence of simpler, more intuitive reusable kits makes it easier for ex-disposable users to make the switch. Additionally, the standardisation of USB-C fast charging and larger integrated batteries, along with the emergence of prefilled pod systems that offer disposable-like convenience alongside reusable sustainability, have created the perfect bridge for many transitioning vapers.
Big puff vapes are another nice example of the way that the vaping industry is innovating to offer products that are more convenient and longer lasting, ensuring that there are products available to cater to all different types of vapers.
E-liquid evolution
While there is a possibility that flavour restrictions may be on the way, this is unlikely to slow down the innovation taking place in e-liquids. We expect to see an evolution in e-liquid formulations, with a strong focus on rich, complex, and high-quality adult-oriented flavours. Already there has been an increase in the availability of double concentrate e-liquids, such as the popular Double Brew series, which offer a wider variety of options for those focused on intense flavour.
At Evapo, we will continue to stock only compliant e-liquids from reputable brands, and we are excited to see what new options will hit the market in the coming months and years.
Beyond vaping: exploring other nicotine alternatives
It is also possible that other harm reduction products may see increased interest due to the changing landscape, with some consumers looking to see what alternative options are out there. The most likely candidate to see increased interest is the nicotine pouch.
The rise of nicotine pouches
Nicotine pouches are a smoke-free, tobacco-free, and discreet choice for nicotine consumption that provide a safe and compliant alternative to options such as vaping. Nicotine pouches are an innovative and flexible solution that can be used alone or alongside a vape kit. They are ideal for filling in the gap when users are not able to use their vape, such as when they are on public transport, working, or flying. Another popular new addition to the range are nicotine strips, which dissolve on the tongue in seconds for fast absorption.
We offer a curated selection of nicotine pouches and strips as part of our diverse harm reduction portfolio, offering options to our customers who are looking for alternatives to smoking. We treat nicotine pouches the same as any other nicotine alternative, by age verifying their purchase, although they technically are not currently strictly regulated in the same way as vaping products. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill is hoping to gain the powers to regulate nicotine pouches and other novel nicotine products.
Our commitment to you: navigating the new era of vaping
Throughout all of these changes, Evapo remain your trusted vaping partner through our industry expertise and influence.
Your trusted guide and expert resource
In addition to our online resources, our in-store teams are well informed and ready to help with any of your questions. Our staff are all National Centre for Smoking Cessation and Training (NCSCT) certified Stop Smoking Advisors, offering unparalleled expert advice and support.
You can also always rely on Evapo to stock only compliant, high-quality, and legal reusable vape kits, e-liquids, and accessories from reputable brands. Plus, we are a Trading Standards approved retailer, through their buy with confidence scheme.
Looking for clear, up-to-date information through blogs, in-store consultations, and customer service? Evapo are here to help.
Supporting your switch to a smoke-free future
We are here to support all vapers in finding the perfect compliant device and e-liquid, whether they are long-term vapers, recent disposable users, or smokers currently looking to quit. Our commitment, both now and always, is to professionalising the industry and ensuring that adult smokers continue to have access to effective, less harmful alternatives.
With the transition away from disposables, the impact of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, and the upcoming e-liquid tax, we are seeing a move towards a more mature, regulated, and sustainable UK vaping landscape. Evapo supports such a shift and believes that vaping remains a crucial and substantially less harmful alternative for adult smokers.
If you are ready to make the switch from cigarettes or you are a vaper curious about what is available in the changing landscape, explore our wide range of compliant products, such as our reusable vape kits, e-liquids, and nicotine pouches. If you have any questions, be sure to seek expert advice from our NCSCT-certified staff in your local Evapo store or online through our Customer Service Hub.
