Cigarettes Are Officially Gone From Supermarket Shelves
While speciality stores see an influx of customers searching for tobacco products, smaller stores worry about their decreasing clientele.
As of yesterday, July 1, 2024, supermarkets in the Netherlands are no longer allowed to sell tobacco products. This new rule aims to reduce smoking and promote a healthier lifestyle. The ban affects all stores that mainly sell food and drinks, including evening shops, but excludes speciality stores and convenience stores until 2032.
Lucas Minke, owner of the Primera convenience store on Nieuwe Ebbingestraat, has seen a big rise in customers buying tobacco products. Since nearby supermarkets stopped selling tobacco in January, sales of cigarettes have tripled, and tobacco and cigars have also grown significantly. This increase in customers has also boosted sales of other items like magazines, greeting cards, and lighters. Minke now has about 15 extra customers per hour because of the new rule and plans to keep selling tobacco until the 2032 ban.
Uncertainty in New Regulation
The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) will enforce the new rule based on the overall image of the business. However, there is some confusion about what exactly qualifies as a supermarket. It is unclear whether the classification depends on sales turnover or the size of the store.
Supermarkets now need to adjust their business models to make up for the potential loss of revenue from tobacco sales, which are often bought impulsively and contribute significantly to income. Smaller supermarkets worry that the ban might push customers to shop elsewhere where tobacco is still available.
Strategic Adaptations
To deal with the impact of the tobacco ban, supermarkets are encouraged to expand and update their product range. Focusing on healthier products, food services, and convenience items can help attract health-conscious consumers. Emphasising fresh, local products and organic food can help supermarkets create a new, healthier image. The tobacco ban may also encourage smokers to quit, further promoting a healthier lifestyle among customers.