Residents and businesses across Thurrock are being encouraged to share their views on illegal tobacco and vape sales as Thurrock Council steps up efforts to protect local communities and tackle criminal activity.
The council’s Trading Standards team is launching a short anonymous survey to better understand local concerns about the illegal sale of tobacco and vape products. The feedback will help shape future enforcement activity and awareness campaigns, ensuring resources are targeted where they can make the greatest difference for residents.
The survey opened on 4 August and closes on Sunday, 6 September.
Illegal tobacco and vapes are not harmless bargains. Cheap or counterfeit products can be unsafe, unregulated and make it easier for children and young people to access nicotine products. Illegal sales also undermine honest local businesses and can provide funding for organised criminal activity.
Thurrock Council is committed to putting residents first by creating safer communities, supporting responsible businesses and taking action against those who break the law. Information gathered through the survey will help Trading Standards build a clearer picture of the issues affecting Thurrock and identify where future enforcement work should be focused.
Residents are also reminded that anyone who suspects illegal tobacco or vape products are being sold can report it anonymously. This includes concerns about sales to under-18s or adults purchasing tobacco or vape products on behalf of children and young people.
Across the UK, enforcement action against illegal tobacco and vape sales has resulted in counterfeit products being seized, businesses being closed and offenders being prosecuted, highlighting the seriousness of these offences.
The anonymous survey takes around five minutes to complete and is open until Sunday, 6 September 2026.
