JTI has removed its tobacco gantry from a shop in Manchester following a prosecution by Trading Standards for dealing in illegal cigarettes and tobacco.
Charlie Cunningham-Reid, JTI’s UK Head of Corporate Affairs commented: “Given the offence committed by this retailer, JTI has decided that the removal of our gantry was the most appropriate course of action. If this type of crime continues, customers will lose trust in their local shops as the false impression grows that all of the independent trade is rife with ‘dodgy cigarettes’.”
Speaking in support of JTI’s action Bestway Group Director of Symbol, James Hall, stated: “Selling illegal tobacco must be seen as a crime that doesn’t pay, which is why, following this prosecution, Bestway has decided to remove all future support from this particular shop and we call on other suppliers to do the same.”
HMRC welcomed the action taken against Amani News by JTI and Bestway.
Anyone who knows of criminals supplying illegal cigarettes in their area should report them to the Customs Hotline on 0800 59 5000.
