Market Forecast By Device Type (Modular/re-chargeable e-cigarette and Disposable e-cigarette), By Demography (Gender (Male and Female), Age Group (14-19 years, 20-39 years, 40-59 years and 60 years & above)), By Distribution (Online and Offline) and Competitive Landscape
Product Code: ETC003533 | Publication Date: Aug 2020 | Updated Date: Mar 2025 | Product Type: Report | |
Publisher: 6Wresearch | No. of Pages: 70 | No. of Figures: 35 | No. of Tables: 5 | |
Report Name | United Kingdom E-Cigarette Market |
Forecast period | 2025-2031 |
CAGR | 13.6% |
Growing Sector | Online Retail |
United Kingdom E-Cigarette Market report thoroughly covers the market By Device Type, By Demography, By Sales Channel, By Country. The market report provides an unbiased and detailed analysis of the ongoing market trends, opportunities/high growth areas, and market drivers which would help the stakeholders to devise and align their market strategies according to the current and future market dynamics.
United Kingdom E-Cigarette Market has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by rising awareness of the health risks associated with traditional smoking and a shift in consumer behaviour toward alternative nicotine consumption methods. E-cigarettes are widely viewed as a less harmful option compared to conventional cigarettes, which has fuelled their adoption across various age groups. The market is characterized by a broad range of products, including e-cigarettes, vape pens, and disposable vapes, along with a variety of flavoured e-liquids. The increasing availability of these products through both physical retail stores and online channels has made e-cigarettes more accessible to consumers.
Additionally, the market benefits from a supportive regulatory environment, with the UK government promoting e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid, further driving demand. However, the market also faces challenges, such as concerns about youth vaping and ongoing regulatory scrutiny. Despite these challenges, the e-cigarette market in the UK is expected to continue growing, with projections indicating a strong compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the next few years.
According to 6Wresearch, the United Kingdom E-Cigarette Market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 13.6% during the forecast period 2025-2031. The United Kingdom e-cigarette market Growth can be attributed to several key factors. First, increasing awareness of the health risks associated with smoking traditional cigarettes has led many consumers to seek alternative options like e-cigarettes, which are perceived as a less harmful way to consume nicotine. Second, the UK government’s support for e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation tool has played a significant role, with public health bodies promoting their use as a safer alternative. The growing variety of e-cigarette products, including disposable vapes, flavoured e-liquids, and advanced devices, has also attracted more users. Additionally, the rise of online retail platforms has made e-cigarettes more accessible to a broader audience, further driving market growth.
However, the market also faces several challenges. Regulatory pressures and concerns over the long-term health impacts of vaping continue to pose risks to market expansion. The growing use of e-cigarettes among youth has raised alarms about potential nicotine addiction, leading to calls for stricter regulations on advertising and product availability. Moreover, the risk of potential public health concerns, such as the emergence of harmful additives or unregulated products, could lead to heightened scrutiny from authorities. These factors may slow the pace of market growth if not managed effectively. Despite these challenges, the market is expected to remain robust, with continued innovation and regulatory adaptation fostering ongoing expansion.
The United Kingdom e-cigarette market is witnessing several notable trends that are shaping its growth and consumer preferences. One of the key trends is the increasing popularity of disposable e-cigarettes, which offer convenience and ease of use, especially among new users. These products are gaining traction due to their portability, affordability, and variety of flavours, making them appealing to both smokers looking for alternatives and non-smokers exploring vaping. Another significant trend is the flavour innovation within the e-liquid sector, as manufacturers continue to introduce a wide range of flavours to cater to diverse consumer tastes. Flavoured options are particularly popular among younger consumers, although this has raised regulatory concerns regarding youth vaping.
In addition, there is a noticeable shift towards premium and advanced vaping devices, such as pod systems and customizable mods, which offer a more personalized and enhanced vaping experience. Health-conscious consumption is another trend, as consumers increasingly seek products that are marketed as healthier alternatives to smoking, with many e-cigarette brands emphasizing their reduced risk compared to traditional cigarettes. The market is also seeing growth in online sales, as digital platforms provide consumers with greater access to a broader range of products, convenience, and competitive pricing. Finally, regulatory developments are influencing the market, with increased scrutiny on product ingredients, advertising, and safety standards, shaping the future direction of the industry in the UK. These trends indicate a dynamic market that is evolving with consumer preferences, technology, and regulatory changes.
The United Kingdom e-cigarette Industry presents several lucrative investment opportunities for businesses and investors looking to capitalize on the growing demand for smoking alternatives. One promising area is product innovation, particularly in the development of advanced vaping devices and disposable e-cigarettes, which are gaining popularity for their convenience and user-friendly features. Investors can benefit from supporting brands that focus on creating high-quality, customizable devices, as well as those offering a wide range of e-liquids with diverse and appealing flavours. Another key opportunity lies in the health and wellness aspect of the market, as more consumers view e-cigarettes as a less harmful alternative to traditional smoking. This trend offers investment potential in companies that emphasize the health benefits of their products and align with public health initiatives promoting smoking cessation.
The online retail sector also presents significant growth potential, as e-commerce continues to expand in the e-cigarette market, offering investors the chance to invest in online platforms or retail services that provide access to a variety of vaping products. Furthermore, as regulations around vaping become more refined, there are opportunities for businesses focused on compliance and regulatory services, particularly in terms of product safety, packaging, and marketing. Additionally, with the continued rise of youth-focused flavours and vaping culture, there is potential for targeted marketing strategies to address this growing demographic.
Finally, sustainability is an emerging opportunity, with consumers increasingly interested in eco-friendly options, such as recyclable e-cigarette components and environmentally conscious production processes. Overall, the evolving market, driven by consumer preferences, regulatory adjustments, and technological advancements, provides multiple investment avenues in the UK e-cigarette sector.
The United Kingdom e-cigarette market is dominated by several key players that have established strong brand recognition and consumer trust. Juul Labs, one of the leading brands globally, has made a significant impact in the UK with its sleek, easy-to-use devices and a wide variety of flavours. Their focus on nicotine salts has appealed to many adult smokers looking for an alternative to traditional cigarettes. Another prominent player is British American Tobacco (BAT), which has expanded its portfolio through its Vype and Vuse brands, offering both e-cigarettes and vaping products. BAT has leveraged its established presence in the tobacco industry to transition into the e-cigarette market, with a strong emphasis on product innovation and regulatory compliance.
Imperial Brands, with its e-cigarette brand Blu, is another major competitor, focusing on expanding its market share through both traditional retail and online sales. Additionally, NJOY, a US-based e-cigarette company, has also gained a strong foothold in the UK with its premium products aimed at smokers seeking a high-quality vaping experience. Other significant players include Vapouriz, a UK-based brand that offers a wide range of e-liquids and devices, and Smok—a leading manufacturer of vaping hardware known for its cutting-edge designs and technology. These companies, along with several smaller regional players, are continually innovating and adapting to the evolving regulatory landscape and changing consumer preferences in the UK, contributing to a competitive and dynamic market environment.
The United Kingdom e-cigarette market is subject to a well-established regulatory framework aimed at ensuring consumer safety and controlling the marketing and sale of vaping products. The key piece of legislation governing the market is the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016, which aligns with the European Union's Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). This regulation sets strict guidelines on the sale of e-cigarettes, including limits on nicotine content (not exceeding 20 mg/ml), packaging requirements, and health warnings on e-liquid bottles. Additionally, it mandates that all e-cigarette products be notified to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) before they can be sold, ensuring that they meet safety and quality standards.
The UK government has also introduced age restrictions, prohibiting the sale of e-cigarettes to individuals under the age of 18, aiming to reduce the appeal of vaping to minors. Advertising and promotional activities for e-cigarettes are tightly regulated as well, with strict bans on television and radio ads, along with restrictions on online marketing targeted at minors. In terms of public health, e-cigarettes are seen by the NHS and Public Health England as a potential tool for smoking cessation, and the government has generally supported their use as a less harmful alternative to smoking.
However, there is ongoing debate and concern about the potential for youth vaping and the long-term health effects of e-cigarette use, which may lead to future regulatory updates. Overall, the UK government’s approach is one of balanced regulation, aiming to encourage smoking cessation while minimizing risks to public health.
The future of the United Kingdom e-cigarette market looks promising, with continued growth driven by changing consumer preferences, regulatory developments, and advancements in technology. As more smokers seek alternatives to traditional cigarettes, the demand for e-cigarettes is expected to rise, particularly with increasing awareness of their role in smoking cessation. The market is likely to see ongoing product innovation, with advancements in vaping technology offering more customized and user-friendly experiences, such as improved battery life, more efficient devices, and a broader variety of e-liquids. The popularity of disposable e-cigarettes and pod-based systems will likely continue to grow, appealing to both new users and those seeking convenience.
The regulatory landscape is expected to evolve, with tighter scrutiny on product safety, advertising, and health claims. However, the UK’s supportive stance on e-cigarettes as a smoking alternative is likely to remain, especially as the government promotes harm reduction strategies. The increasing focus on eco-friendly products, such as recyclable and sustainable e-cigarette devices, will also shape future market trends, as consumers become more environmentally conscious. In addition, online retail will continue to expand, with digital platforms offering convenience and a wide range of products to meet diverse consumer needs. Despite challenges such as concerns over youth vaping and the potential long-term health effects of e-cigarette use, the market is poised for sustained growth, with a steady stream of innovation and an increasing shift away from traditional tobacco products.
The report offers a comprehensive study of the subsequent market segments and their leading categories.
According to Parth, Senior Research Analyst at 6Wresearch, disposable e-cigarettes have been experiencing significant growth in recent years, outpacing modular or rechargeable e-cigarettes. Disposable e-cigarettes have gained popularity due to their convenience, affordability, and ease of use, especially among new users and those seeking a hassle-free vaping experience. These products do not require maintenance or refilling, which makes them highly appealing to busy consumers or those looking for a simple, on-the-go option. The wide range of flavors and accessible pricing further contribute to their growing popularity, particularly among younger adults. This surge in demand is also influencing the United Kingdom E-Cigarette Market Share, highlighting the significant shifts in consumer preferences in the region.
The online sales channel has experienced significant growth in recent years, outpacing traditional offline sales. The convenience and accessibility of purchasing e-cigarettes online have made it a preferred option for many consumers, especially with the increasing variety of products available and the ability to compare prices easily. Online platforms allow consumers to explore a broader range of devices, e-liquids, and accessories, and often offer more competitive pricing and exclusive deals. Additionally, the growth of e-commerce has been accelerated by the shift in shopping behaviors, with many consumers opting for the convenience of home delivery rather than visiting physical stores.
China has emerged as a key contributor to growth, primarily due to the presence of major e-cigarette manufacturers and suppliers. Chinese companies, such as SMOK and Innokin, have established a strong foothold in the UK, offering a wide range of affordable and high-quality vaping products. These products are popular among UK consumers due to their competitive pricing and innovation, with many Chinese brands leading in the development of advanced vaping devices and accessories.
Market Covered:
The UK E-Cigarette Market report provides a detailed analysis of the following market segments:
Gender
Age Group
By Sales Channel
1. Executive Summary |
2. Introduction |
2.1. Report Description |
2.2. Key Highlights of The Report |
2.3. Market Scope & Segmentation |
2.4. Research Methodology |
2.5. Assumptions |
3. Global E-Cigarette Market Overview |
3.1. Global E-Cigarette Market Revenues & Volume, 2021-2031F |
3.2. Global E-Cigarette Market Revenue Share, By Regions, 2021 & 2031F |
4. UK E-Cigarette Market Overview |
4.1. UK Country Indicators |
4.2. UK E-Cigarette Market Revenues & Volume, 2021-2031F |
4.3. UK E-Cigarette Market Industry Life Cycle |
4.4. UK E-Cigarette Market Ecosystem and Value Chain Analysis |
4.5. UK E-Cigarette Market Porter’s Five Forces Model |
4.6. UK E-Cigarette Market Revenue Share, By Device Types, 2021 & 2031F |
4.7. UK E-Cigarette Market Revenue Share, By Gender, 2021 |
4.8. UK E-Cigarette Market Revenue Share, By Distribution, 2021 |
4.9. UK E-Cigarette Market Revenue Share, By Age Groups, 2021 |
5. UK E-Cigarette Market Dynamics |
5.1. Impact Analysis |
5.2. Market Drivers |
5.3. Market Restraints |
6. UK E-Cigarette Market Trends |
7. UK E-Cigarette Market Overview, By Device Type |
7.1. UK Disposable E-Cigarette Market Revenues & Volume, 2021-2031F |
7.2. UK Rechargeable/Modular E-Cigarette Market Revenues & Volume, 2021-2031F |
8. UK E-Cigarette Market Overview, By Gender |
8.1. UK E-Cigarette Market Revenues, By Gender, 2021 |
8.2. UK E-Cigarette Market Revenue Share, By Gender, 2021 |
9. UK E-Cigarette Market Overview, By Distribution |
9.1. UK E-Cigarette Market Revenues, By Distribution, 2021 |
9.2. UK E-Cigarette Market Revenue Share, By Distribution, 2021 |
10. UK E-Cigarette Market Overview, By Age Group |
10.1. UK E-Cigarette Market Revenues, By Age Group, 2021 |
10.2. UK E-Cigarette Market Revenue Share, By Age Group, 2021 |
11. UK E-Cigarette Market Regulations |
12. UK E-Cigarette Market Opportunity Assessment |
12.1. UK E-Cigarette Market Opportunity Matrix, By Device Types, 2031F |
12.2. UK E-Cigarette Market Opportunity Matrix, By Gender, 2031F |
12.3. UK E-Cigarette Market Opportunity Matrix, By Distribution, 2031F |
12.4. UK E-Cigarette Market Opportunity Matrix, By Age Group, 2031F |
13. UK E-Cigarette Market, Competitive Landscape |
13.1. UK E-Cigarette Market Competitive Benchmarking, By Operating and Technical Parameters |
13.2. UK E-Cigarette Market Revenue Share, By Company, 2024 |
14. Company Profiles |
15. Strategic Recommendations |
16. Disclaimer |