Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Record smokers out to kick the habit
An Airdrie vaping store has recorded its largest ever “quit attempt” by smokers in the town following its reopening after lockdown.
VPZ’S, on Graham Street, saw record sales in its “new to vaping” kits when it welcomed back customers, representing its largest ever uptake.
The firm, which specialises in vaping and alternative tobacco products, has had to adapt to the new way of life following the huge change in the retail landscape that has come as a result of the pandemic.
The forced closure of vaping stores during lockdown has meant that smokers have not been able to access advice, products and help on how to quit smoking.
This, combined with the extensive smoking service cuts throughout the UK, has meant that smokers in the local area and across the country have not been able to get the help they need to quit for good.
VPZ is now seeing record demand from smokers looking for expert advice and personalised support to help them make the switch; and is committed to playing its part in helping Britain achieve its ambitions to be a tobacco-free nation by 2030, set out by the government in 2017.
Doug Mutter, director of VPZ, told the
Advertiser: “Post-lockdown we had expected to see a rise in smokers coming forward looking for help and guidance but the scale and demand here in Airdrie, and across our store network, has been huge.
“We recognise now more than ever the need for an enhanced level of service and support that our customers require following lockdown.”
Recent data from VPZ has shown that smoking rates have increased but, most worryingly, is the amount of cigarettes smokers are consuming has also increased.
Doug continued: “The vast reduction in NHS stop-smoking services, through Covid-19 and local authority cuts, have been devastating in the country’s efforts to reduce smoking rates.
“Our specialists are trained and have expert knowledge, giving our customers a dedicated one-to-one consultation to help smokers begin their quit journey.
“They work specially to the needs of the customer, giving them the expert advice and access to quality vaping products which are proven to be the most effective way to quit smoking.
“Our customers keep telling us this personalised service makes us different from other smoking cessation options and we are committed to helping more people make the switch to support the UK in its ambitions to be smoke-free by 2030.”