70% of vapers will stockpile disposables ahead of ban, new survey reveals

With just weeks to go before the UK’s ban on disposable vapes takes effect on 1 June, new research from supplier Vape Superstore reveals a significant shift in consumer behaviour.

While fewer vapers now use disposables as their primary device compared to six months ago, a dramatic rise in stockpiling suggests anxiety and uncertainty remain widespread among shoppers.

In a follow-up to its November 2024 report, Vape Superstore surveyed over 500 adult vapers to understand how attitudes have evolved.

The data paints a complex picture: although primary use of disposables dropped from 66% to 43.1%, the number of people planning to stock up ahead of the ban has nearly tripled - from 25.2% to 70.3%.

“What we’re seeing is a shift from regular dependence to panic-driven stockpiling,” said David Phillips, lead content writer at Vape Superstore. “While many vapers say they plan to switch to reusable options, the fear of losing convenience, flavour variety and simplicity is driving a rush to hoard disposables,” he added.

80.8% of respondents use between one to five disposable vapes per week, with a further 16.1% using six to ten, underscoring how embedded these products are in daily routines.

For many, the move to reusable kits feels daunting. Over 61% cited the ‘complexity’ of devices – such as needing to refill e-liquids or change coils – as a key deterrent to switching, suggesting a significant knowledge gap that may hinder adoption of longer-term, sustainable options.

Environmental factors also featured in the survey. 53.5% of respondents still dispose of vapes in the bin, and more than 65% are unaware of existing recycling options – though nearly 78% say they’d participate if one was made available.

”Our survey highlights just how urgent the need is for education and support during this transition…”

Phillips added: “Our survey highlights just how reliant many vapers have become on disposables - and how urgent the need is for education and support during this transition. With the right guidance, reusable alternatives can provide a sustainable solution to disposables. But without it, we risk a rise in illicit sales or even a return to smoking – the very behaviour vaping was meant to help people avoid.

“Change can feel overwhelming, especially for those who rely on the simplicity of disposables. Our goal is to remove the barriers and confusion, offering straightforward alternatives that maintain the same satisfaction, flavour, and convenience – without the environmental impact or future restrictions.”

Vape Superstore has also created a blog on this topic, which also links to industry insights.

You can read our interviews with convenience retailers on how ready they are for next month’s ban here.