Since the nationwide ban on disposable vapes came into force on June 1, 2025, the UK vaping retail sector has undergone unprecedented disruption. Within just months, significant structural changes are becoming visible across regulation, retail distribution, and product development priorities.

Market Shifts in the Post-Ban Landscape

The MHRA product registration platform has seen a sharp rise in submissions, most of which are refillable pod devices and e-liquids. This indicates that manufacturers are shifting investment away from disposables toward longer-term, compliant categories.

Across the UK, vape stores and distributors have rapidly cleared disposable SKUs. Shelves are now dominated by open-pod systems and e-liquids, which have quickly become the focal point of sales activity.

The consumer response remains uneven. While some users stockpiled disposables before the cut-off date and illicit supply still exists, momentum is gradually shifting toward refillable options. 30% of former disposable users indicate they plan to switch to 10ml bottled e-liquids, over time, the convenience of disposables is being replaced by the flexibility and value of pod kits paired with bottled e-liquids.

From Disposables to a More Sustainable Model

The ban marks not just a regulatory milestone but a fundamental change in market structure. open-pod devices and e-liquids are replacing disposable vapes, retailers are rethinking merchandising strategies, brands are refining product portfolios, and consumers are learning to adapt to a refill-and-reuse culture.

For retailers and wholesalers aiming to capture the post-ban opportunity, offering the right e-liquids will be crucial. High-quality options such as Atom’s range not only ensure flavour consistency that keeps consumers loyal during the transition from disposables, but also meet the strict compliance requirements of the UK market. By combining regulatory reliability with diverse flavour profiles, Atom provides partners with a seamless solution that supports both immediate sales continuity and long-term category growth.

Looking Ahead: What Will Drive Growth?

The post-disposable era in the UK will be defined by three key levers:

• Flavour: Delivering consistency and variety that sustain consumer satisfaction.

• Compliance: Ensuring every product aligns with MHRA requirements and evolving regulation.

• Retention: Building long-term consumer loyalty through quality and value.

Brands that successfully align these factors will capture the next wave of sustainable growth in the UK market.

📩 For partnership inquiries, contact e-liquids@hangsen.com.