A retail business in Bracknell has expanded its product range to include darts equipment, responding to concerns over an upcoming government levy on vaping products. Vapers Cave, the shop in question, primarily stocks electronic cigarettes but is now diversifying its offerings to ensure financial viability.
The introduction of the Vaping Product Duty, commonly referred to as the vape tax, will impose a charge of £2.20 for every 10ml of e-liquid sold. The new fiscal measure is scheduled to take effect in April 2027, providing retailers with a six-month period to liquidate existing inventory at pre-tax prices.
Shop owner Daniel Buckland stated that the decision to branch out was driven by anxiety regarding the long-term sustainability of the vaping trade under the new regime. He explained that the potential impact of the duty on the business prompted them to seek alternative revenue streams, leading to the inclusion of darts accessories in their stock.
Hope the dart strategy pays off, but isn’t that tax coming in 2027? Seems like a very early hedge to me.
£2.20 per 10ml is brutal. I’m surprised they didn’t just close up shop entirely instead of buying dartboards.
Darts? Really? Next they’ll sell scented candles. This is the most British pivot I have ever heard of.