Luton Borough Council

24/07/2025 - Closures of Luton premises selling illegal cigarettes

Following an investigation by Luton Trading Standards, two premises selling counterfeit and non-duty paid cigarettes have been closed.

Dacia located at 27 Crawley Road was closed in conjunction with the landlord who terminated the lease. Luton Groceries located at 26 Chapel Street was issued with a three-month closure order by Luton Magistrates in an application by Luton Trading Standards, with support from the council’s public health department and Bedfordshire Police.

Councillor Maria Lovell, Portfolio Holder for Trading Standards, said: “The sale of illicit tobacco, vape pens and shisha is often linked to wider organised criminal activity, so we have good reason to be vigilant. It is also putting people’s health at risk, which is particularly concerning as illicit vape pens and tobacco are often being sold to school children under 18, which is also illegal”.

Anyone with information on premises and individuals selling and storing illicit tobacco, shisha and vape pens in Luton either from a shop, online or from a domestic premises or vehicle can report it in confidence.