PLYMOUTH, England – Sales of illegal tobacco have been on the rise in the city of Plymouth, and many retailers are now expressing fears that these illegal sales "pose a risk" to Plymouth convenience store owners. Many store owners across the city are worried about the damaging consequences the sale of Non-UK duty paid (NUKDP) goods will have on their business. These products are not manufactured by legitimate manufacturers, nor are they produced in accordance with British legislative requirements.

Some convenience store owners are saying that the sale of illegal tobacco around the city – from both individuals and known shops – has already had a negative impact on business. In fact, some merchants claim they can tell when new black market tobacco product enters the local market because their sales decrease noticeably. Additionally, concern exists that if new legislation comes into force introducing plain packaging on tobacco and cigarettes, this may result in a rise in the illegal tobacco trade.

Local and national officials claim that there is no link between plain packaging rules and increased sales of black market tobacco, however.

According to a recent survey undertaken by the group Smokefree South West, the percent of residents who say they are “very concerned” about illegal tobacco has increased to 51%, from 34% the year prior.