4 Vape Predictions For The UK In 2023
March 26, 2023The vape industry has undergone a tumultuous journey since its inception. Despite experts asserting that e-cigarettes are at least 95% safer than their traditional counterparts, the industry has been subject to fluctuating support and criticism from regulations and the media. This uncertainty makes it challenging to anticipate the industry’s future. However, this has not deterred professionals from making predictions about what lies ahead. Thus, here are the prevalent UK vape predictions for the year 2023.
1. Stricter Legislation
Discussions surrounding vape legislation remain a contentious topic. It is unsurprising that experts widely anticipate stricter regulations that will further constrain the vaping industry. Talks of prohibiting e-liquid flavours are already underway in some countries, and the recent emergence of disposable vapes that flout UK regulations on nicotine strength and liquid capacity has added to the debate.
The impact of these regulations could be both positive and negative. Stricter regulations may push smokers towards conventional cigarettes. Some experts have warned that they could lead to an increase in black-market vaping products, which poses significant safety concerns.
However, Jim McDonald from Vaping 360 has highlighted the “grey market” for illegal disposables that has recently come to light in the UK. Disposables are becoming increasingly popular among young people. Test Purchase Operations conducted by Trading Standards, councils, and news outlets have shown that, although legitimate vape shops are less likely to sell e-cigarettes to minors, other businesses willingly sell disposables to underage customers. Stricter regulations may make disposables more difficult for young people to access or less appealing to impressionable teenagers.
2. Disposable Vape Ban
As I was writing this article, it was was revealed that yet another brand of disposable vapes, Lost Mary, were in breach of UK vaping laws. This follows on from an earlier disposable vape issue that was debated in parliament. Speakers discussed the environmental impact of single-use vapes and the potential health risks to young people. Following the debate, it was decided that a bill would be drafted to prohibit disposable vapes.
It is plausible that the bill will be passed, and disposable vapes could be outlawed in the coming year. Research conducted by Material Focus revealed that 1.3 million vapes are discarded in landfills each week,. This doesn’t cover the many, many more that litter the streets. Their bright colours make them particularly attractive to young people. As a result we have witnessed a significant surge in their popularity among underage individuals.
While this is mere conjecture, it is possible that 2023 may see the official banning of single-use e-cigarettes due to the factors mentioned above.
3. Disposable Vape Flavours Will Be Available As E-liquids
Should disposable vapes indeed face a ban, then expect the manufacturers to switch focus into E-liquids. Until recently, very few conventional e-liquid brands could match the intense flavours of disposables. However, the latest e-liquid collections have been formulated to imitate the taste of disposables. One of the most widely predicted trends in the UK vaping industry for 2023 is that disposable vape-inspired e-liquids will become increasingly popular. We expect that nearly every major UK e-liquid brand to create their own versions. For instance, SMKD’s DNA Vapes e-liquid range is an example of a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly method of experiencing disposable vape flavours.
4. More “Ice” E-liquids Will Hit The Shelves
If you have been vaping for some time, you may have encountered “Ice” e-liquids. Unlike menthol flavours, which are intended to simulate the taste of menthol cigarettes, Ice flavours incorporate a cooling sensation into the vape juice. This results in a smoother nicotine hit and a more pleasent experience in some people’s eyes.
Despite the controversy surrounding Ice e-liquids, enthusiasts claim that the cool sensation enhances the vaping experience. This is resulting in more and more vapers are gravitating towards them.
As a result, we are witnessing an increase in Ice e-liquid ranges. Furthermore, this trend is expected to continue in 2023.
What Are Your Vape Predictions for 2023?
These are some of the most commonly predicted developments in the UK vaping industry for 2023 from a variety of sources. Although we cannot foretell the future, we are looking forward to seeing what the future holds for the vaping industry.
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