economy
'Everybody’s making money': how two backstreets became the vape capital of Britain
In Cheetham Hill, Manchester, there are more than 50 shops specializing in vapes and vaping paraphernalia. Why did they open here? And how long can they last?
TL;DR
- Cheetham Hill, Manchester, has over 50 shops specializing in vapes and vaping paraphernalia, becoming known as Britain's 'vape capital'.
- The area, historically a wholesale district, now hosts a large hub for vape wholesalers, attracting retailers from across the UK.
- The growth of the vape industry, with sales expected to reach £3.2 billion by the end of 2024, and lower operating costs in deprived areas contribute to the concentration of shops.
- Cheetham Hill previously faced issues with counterfeit goods and organized crime, leading to police operations like Operation Vulcan, but more vape outlets have since moved into cleared units.
- New government regulations, including a vaping products duty and stricter retail licensing, are expected to impact the industry and potentially lead to a decrease in the number of outlets.