Kirkby store owner fined for selling illegal vape products

A store owner in Kirkby, Merseyside, has been fined for selling fake e-cigarettes and vape products. The store, Phone Zone, was inspected by Knowsley Council's Trading Standards team. They found items that did not meet safety regulations. Mrs. Naila Parveen, 46, owns Phone Zone. She was found guilty of breaching the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016. These laws restrict nicotine levels and require health warnings on vape packaging. The maximum penalty for such offenses can be an unlimited fine. The investigation began after an unannounced inspection on June 13, 2023. Trading Standards seized and tested the products, finding that they posed harm to users. Mrs. Parveen admitted to the charges and was ordered to pay £2,560 in fines. Knowsley Council officials stated that they will take strong action against counterfeit goods. They emphasized the risks of selling untested products, which may be dangerous and of poor quality. The council is committed to ensuring that unsafe items are not sold in the area and will continue to inspect local shops for compliance.