The vaping market is expanding rapidly across the United Kingdom. Research indicates 4.3 million vapers in the UK in 2022, up from 3.7 million in 2021. The market is now valued at approximately £1.2 billion, with projections to reach £1.4 billion over the next three years. This robust growth demonstrates the increasing consumer demand for vaping products as alternatives to traditional cigarettes.
Vaping's Increased Prevalence in Traditional Retail
Roughly 35% of current vape sales in the UK occur in conventional retail channels, proving the category's relevance for retailers. Stores must prioritize sufficient vaping sections and a diverse product range catering to their unique customer demographic. As consumer interest persists throughout 2023, retailers should prepare to meet this sustained demand.
The Rise of Disposables
Disposable vapes dominate the current market, commanding 83% of total vape sales. Their meteoric growth is evidenced by the increase in disposables' market value from £141 million in 2021 to £973 million in 2022. Imperial Tobacco recently entered this rapidly expanding segment, launching the Blu Bar disposable vape line.
However, closed pod systems and open vape systems retain a 17% market share, underscoring many vapers' sustained preference for these options. Retailers should consider maintaining diverse device selections, including leading pod systems like Blu 2.0. Frequently reevaluating product ranges based on category developments and customer feedback is key for maximizing sales.
Flavor Trends: Fruit and Mint Dominate
Fruit and mint remain highly popular vape flavors. Mint comprises the second highest flavor profile among pod systems. Specific fruit flavors like strawberry and blueberry are also gaining traction. This fruity preference continues among disposables, where fruit flavors represent over 95% of sales.
Recent data shows blueberry as the top-selling disposable vape flavor. However, berry flavors are rising rapidly, expanding by 60% month-over-month. Imperial Tobacco responded by adding apple, pineapple, and mango variants to its Blu Bar range based on their collective 10.75% market share gain over six months.
Sustainability Concerns Around Disposables
Single-use, disposable vapes pose sustainability issues. Recent findings show disposable vapes discarded weekly quadrupled from 1.3 million to 5 million in a year. However, rechargeable devices with recyclable components like JUUL provide eco-friendly alternatives. JUUL operates a free pod take-back program and supplies each device with a two-year warranty. Such conscientious policies likely resonate with environmentally-minded consumers.
Heat-Not-Burn Options Continue Gaining Traction
Beyond vaping, heat-not-burn products keep demonstrating immense potential. NEAFS specializes in the tobacco-free, smoke-free heat-not-burn niche. Their category-leading device mimics the cigarette experience without burning tobacco. It represents an increasingly popular alternative for smokers looking to transition from traditional cigarettes.
As market fluctuations continue, retailers and wholesalers must monitor regulatory and consumer changes. Adaptable product offerings, responsible marketing, and business practices aligned with industry standards will best position vaping businesses moving forward.