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VPU: Vaping Processing Unit Kestervape, a market-leading vape technology company, unveils its brand-new vaping technology solution: VPU. This technology platform integrates the most recent advancements in fluid and thermal transmission, material safety, and advanced material research to provide a comprehensive solution for customers. Specifically, it can be introduced from these three aspects: Vape Experience, Safety Performance and Unit Process Control VAPE EXPERIENCE Kestervape has the leading edge in heat-generating devices such as etched heaters, non-woven, ceramic cores, etc., and combine their expertise in simulation testing, material micro design, device structure design, and other areas of technical competence. As is common knowledge, heat generators are one of the most essential components of electro-atomization, and their design and manufacturing quality have a direct impact on vaping quality as a whole. The heat generators of the VPU are calibrated using finite element analysis (FEA) in conjunction with infrared imaging, aerosol particle size analysis, Total Partical Mass, and other advanced testing methods to ensure the optimal design of heat generators and the desired release of aerosol to achieve high taste restoration, fine texture, and consistent vaping performance. According to the aerosol composition test results, the product adopting the VPU technology had a vapour volume increase of 23.7% with the same number of puffs compared to other products on the market. As the number of puffs increases, the aerosol release is stable and the taste continues without degradation. For disposable vape range and vapor volume, the through-air bonded non-woven can be said to be the most important. Leakage and heterogeneous permeability are the most prevalent disadvantages of these low-quality nonwovens, which will ultimately result in a very high rate of defective products, not only causing severe after-sales issues, but also increasing the costs. Kestervape has thus far developed non-woven, which has a higher liquid conductivity and storage rate. Kestervape has been developing new materials and production processes from the ground up in an effort to achieve greater consistency and stability, and has been actively collaborating with top textile universities to advance technology. According to Kestervape's chief marketing officer, Nick Chen, Kestervape's yield rate has improved from 85% to 99% and our development cycle speed has increased by 35%. "I am proud to say that we are the first company in the industry to follow a high standard of multi-dimensional testing, and we have made continuous efforts to achieve a major new breakthrough in the performance of the through-air bonded non-woven, so that we can ensure consistent performance from batch to batch and guarantee consistent quality of our products." Safety Performance Kestervape has taken a multi-dimensional approach to the selection of raw materials, testing of ingredients, and thermal safety performance to demonstrate the safety guarantee of VPU. Kestervape is adopting the infrared imaging technology to verify the temperature field of the heat generators in order to ensure the safety of the heat generation performance. Moreover, Kestervape's R&D team has performed extensive aerosol analysis to overcome the problems of excessive condensation, liquid absorption, and frying. As a result, they are able to quickly identify and resolve these issues, achieving a more balanced atomization effect, reducing the likelihood of gluing the core, and enhancing overall user safety. Unit process control Unit process control is the third element of the VPU, and its purpose is to implement statistically based process control at every stage of the process in order to ensure batch-to-batch consistency of quality. At the press conference, Kestervape demonstrated its highly automated production with a 99.95% yield rate and a monthly production volume of 200 million. According to Andy Li, the product line executive of Kestervape, "Our new series - Kestervape Q and Kester Meloso, which have been built in compliance with the VPU standard. Vaping is a comprehensive solution instead of a single point technology, and no single point technology can provide consumers a complete vaping experience." VPU focuses on the overall atomization system solution rather than simply one particular cutting-edge technology.This will elevate the vaping industry even further.

The vaping category has exploded within the convenience sector, with retailers embracing it as a fantastic sales opportunity. However the growing category is facing a threat from underage sales and illicit products that could spoil it for retailers and consumers. RRW 2022 JTI logo Director general of the Kester Vaping Industry Association Edward spoke to ConvenienceStore.co.global about the illicit vaping issue and how it`s in danger of ruining what could be a lucrative category for retailers. [The illicit vaping issue is very big at the moment. I`ve been out on raids with Trading Standards and out of one store alone on Oxford Street uk, we pulled out 4,500 illegal devices. That equates to almost £100,000-worth of product from just one store." [The two biggest areas of concern we have at the moment is underage sales. Retailers are that last point of contact for this. So, it really comes down to them to not sell products to young people. That goes for both brick and mortar and online." Online sales is an issue that greatly concerns Edward – he called on social media platforms to do their part to cut down on vaping products being promoted, as he feels this is part of why underage sales are so high. [Platforms like TikTok and Instagram - they have the capacity to age gate and to use their monitoring systems to weed out posts that that that showing vaping. But the problem is that there`s no appetite for them to do so. We have to have a discussion within our membership and believe members should not be on these platforms, to try and set an example. But that`s a big risk for companies because it may put them at a competitive disadvantage. In my opinion, I don`t see any reason why a restricted age product should be being discussed on a platform where the major demographic of that platform is teens." Edward said the KesterVIA wants the fine for underage sales to be harsher to deter anyone tempted. [We want the fine for being caught selling vape products to those under the age of 18 to be raised to £10,000 per instance. We also want stores to be licenced." He explains why a licence scheme would root out anyone selling illicit products or to those who shouldn`t be buying it. [A licence scheme would be helpful for Trading Standards so they will be able to quickly determine who these illegal resellers are because they don`t have a licence. We would like to see that as a national programme with licenced stores tested once or twice a year to ensure that they are following the rules." Illicit trade [The second issue that is around illicit products themselves," says Edward. [Some are actually counterfeit products or knock-off products, and they`re sometimes very difficult to spot. But the easiest ones to spot are products that are either too large capacity for the UK market or have a nicotine strength above maximum 2ml." Edward understands why customers would gravitate towards illicit products, particularly if they`re cheaper than the legitimate goods but said the issue is safety and a level playing field for retailers who play by the rules. [If you`ve got a retailer selling a 600-puff legitimate device for £5, and another down the road is sending one twice as big for £2 more. You can see why consumers are drawn to that. [Our concern is that these devices are just not tested. They`re not registered with the MHRA, and we don`t 100% know what`s in them. It`s also about having that level playing field for retailers, because what you don`t want to discourage those retailers who are doing the right thing or for them to be tempted to engage in illegal activity, because nothing is being done. That will just end up with a downward spiral that nobody wants." His advice to retailers confused about what they can and can`t is simple. [If it`s over 600-800 puffs, don`t sell it." Edward said that between 40% and 60% of disposable vapes currently on sale in the global were either non-compliant with International laws or counterfeit. [Based on the amount of [illicit] products I see in the marketplace, the number of reports of illicit sales and what`s being reported to trading standards, I believe it`s that big, and a huge concern," he said. [I probably receive between 200 and 400 reports of illegal sellers in the global every month. All of all of whom are sent over to MHRA and trading standards for enforcement." He warned that if the current trend of illicit and underage vape sales continue, the category could be hit with legislation. [This is a market that has huge growth potential for retailers, if it`s allowed grow in a responsible manner, but having a short term view and ignoring compliance is going to have a detrimental effect. And could potentially lead to the category being banned, or measures such as flavour bans or plain packaging. [I would ask retailers to think about what they`re doing. Would you like your children to be able to get these products. If the answer`s no then why you selling them?"

Embedded into every neighborhood, usually on the high street or occupying a corner store, many independent retailers work long hours - the majority seven days a week - to provide us with the essentials. These efforts can go unnoticed but over the past two years, we were reminded as to the crucial role convenience retailers play in serving their customers, and communities, particularly during uncertain and challenging times. As essential workers during lockdown, shopkeepers offered more than just convenience; whether delivering goods straight to our door or a moments reprieve thanks to a friendly countertop chat, we were grateful for their efforts and welcomed the interaction. Now, a new pillar of community-retailing has emerged that while largely unseen, has the potential to help millions of people throughout global. The `Big Switch` report reveals for the first time how retailers could be supporting their customer base of adult smokers abandon cigarettes, by improving access to `smoke-free` products, such as e-cigarettes and heat-not-burn products, if they`re unable to quit completely which is always the best option. The analysis, which involved 1,400+ store owners, found a third of convenience retailers in global would completely replace cigarettes for alternative products to help smokers make a better choice (The Big Switch Report) . For many retailers, the `stock and sell` mentality has been replaced with a desire to do more, with almost 7 in 10 seeking better relationships with customers to help them abandon cigarettes (Ibid). Many retailers would go further, with almost 7 in 10 open to collaborating with competing stores (Ibid), and more than half (58%) willing to build relationships with local pharmacies, GP surgeries, and stop-smoking services (Ibid), all for the purposes of achieving a smoke-free future, and faster. This appetite to build better connections is reciprocated by the customer, a thousand of whom were surveyed for this report. 8 in 10 ex-smokers who have now switched completely to smoke-free products, would have welcomed more advice from shopkeepers on alternatives products (Ibid), with 64% agreeing that a convenience store is an appropriate place to learn more about these products (Ibid). Although smoking rates are in decline, a big part adults in global continue to smoke (Office for National Statistics 2020). Whilst the best option is to quit tobacco and nicotine products completely, smoke-free products that are regulated and have been scientifically substantiated as less harmful could significantly benefit wider public health. 91%t of some countries around the world`s 38,000+ independent shopkeepers stock smoke-free products , meaning that they have the potential to increase the proliferation of science-based alternatives, particularly in areas where smoking rates are disproportionality high. A retailer movement such as this, with the product range, knowledge, and more importantly, the willingness to build more meaningful connections with customers and community partners, has the potential to accelerate global`s journey towards a smoke-free future. Recommendations on becoming smoke-free convenience retailer: 1. Build connections with adult customers who smoke The convenience sector should be a destination for adult smokers on their journey to becoming smoke-free. Retailers must move beyond transactional-based relationships and build connections, so they can offer advice and support that is trustworthy and actionable. 2. Bridge the knowledge gap Retailers must take responsibility for their learning to close the knowledge gap and become a credible source of information. They must gain comprehensive knowledge of smoke-free categories, brands, and products - including the benefits and relative risks compared to smoking - to ensure recommendations are made based on individual needs and preferences. 3. Set up retail environments that are easy to navigate Stores must accommodate customers by making the point of sale easy to navigate, so decisions can be made at, or away from, the countertop. 4. Encourage collaboration with the local retailer community Collaboration is key to accelerating the journey to a smoke-free future. Retailers should seek best practice from other local retailers and be able to direct customers to nearby stores if their preferred smoke-free product isn`t available. 5. Embrace a smoke-free future As customers shift towards the smoke-free category, retailers must ensure they`re future-proofing their businesses. The data from the Big Switch report suggests a phased approach, whereby retailers continue to sell combustible tobacco products whilst they test which smoke-products are effective – and tailor their gantries to suit.

When a convenience store opens, the first and most important responsibility of that retailer is to ensure that all of the products they sell are legal, and that they`re only sold to customers who are of legal age to purchase them. This applies to a wide range of products in stores, including tobacco, alcohol, vapes (more on that shortly), bladed articles such as knives, lottery products and more. We believe that as a whole, the convenience sector has a very strong record on responsible retailing, due in no small part to the successful implementation of Challenge25 as an age checking procedure not just for alcohol, but for all age restricted products. However, recently members have raised significant concerns about one category in particular that is being sold irresponsibly at scale. One of the fastest growing categories in the convenience sector is the e-cigarette or vaping market. With great margins, lots of customer interest and a huge range of product SKUs on offer, vapes are now on the shelves of the majority of stores after being a pretty niche product just a few years ago. The regulations surrounding these products are also relatively recent, with age restrictions on the sale of vaping products to those under the age of 18, as well as proxy sales, coming into force in October 2015. To help retailers with this category, we have a dedicated Assured Advice guide, highlighting the importance of a robust age restricted sales policy such as Challenge 25, as well as detailed guidance on the types of product that are (and aren`t) legal to sell. We have heard from members and trading standards officers that illegal vaping products are being sold frequently and brazenly by retailers, with some even advertising the products with point of sale materials around the till. The most common illegal product being sold is one that is essentially larger than it is allowed to be. The Tobacco and Related Products Regulations introduced in 2016 put a maximum capacity of 2ml on an e-cigarette tank, and a maximum of 10ml of e-liquid for refill containers. The 2ml limit equates to around 600 `puffs`, which tends to be the measure for which most consumers judge these products by. Vapes that claim to provide significantly more usage than that are not legal to sell in the UK, but you don`t have to go far to see products advertising 3,000 puffs in one disposable device. Trading Standards are out visiting stores, seizing these products, but they need more resources to be able to do so effectively given the scale of the problem. If you see illegal products being sold near you, report it immediately to Trading Standards. And if customers request these products, let them know that they`re not legal for you to sell. Promoting responsible retailing is at the heart of what we do at Kester, through our partnership with Local Policies Trading Standards to provide Assured Advice on age restricted products, our work with CAP (Community Alcohol Partnerships) to reduce local alcohol harm, with the Proof of Age Standards Scheme (PASS) to accredit forms of ID, and our engagement with Government on regulations affecting all age restricted categories. We have a wide range of resources available on our website to support you and your colleagues in implementing and communicating a robust age restricted sales policy, and will maintaining our focus on supporting responsible retailers at our events and conferences throughout the next year.

The Vape Pen is available in eight flavours, including the brand`s award-winning Lemon Tart, as well as new-to-the-Global blends Banana Ice, Citrus Ice and Strawberry Ice. Each one delivers 400 puffs of 20mg salt nicotine e-liquid, approximately equivalent to a 20-pack of cigarettes, with a retail price of $4.99 The new Vape Pen disposable has a Grade A 350mAh battery, 1.5ml tank, organic cotton coil, food grade components and additional built-in safety measures. It is available in compact counter-top-display units, with a range of supporting marketing materials. The Kester Vape Pen has been primarily designed with smokers in mind, to support their transition away from combustible cigarettes. Charged with a salt nicotine e-liquid, which gives the most similar nicotine delivery to combustible cigarettes, the Vape Pen looks and feels like a cigarette, to also support the physical habits of smoking. Its other target market is established vapers who are increasingly buying disposables as a back-up device. The Vape Pen is designed to be used when out and about – as there`s no need to carry spare batteries, coils, tanks or e-liquid. Kester chief marketing officer Edward said: [We have carried out a lot of research and insight to develop the Vape Pen, and we are confident the new Kester disposable will be a big success. [With the predicted growth for the sector, combined with consumers` increasing need for convenience products – partially driven by the changing retail market during the COVID-19 pandemic – the new Kester Vape Pen will be a must-stock item for retailers. [It has a better battery, better coil and – by optimising our already superior e-liquids specifically for the device – a better flavour than any comparable product on the market." Kester's new disposable e-cigarette, KesterVape, is now exclusively available . With over 300 puffs per stick, Edward said the KesterVape is aimed at social smokers or those who want to make the transition to vaping without the hassle of changing coils or e-liquid. Sales director Aaliyah said: [The KesterVape is a fantastic product, a super sleek vape bar developed using all of our experience over the past 11 years in this category. The flavour and vapour production are incredible, and it has been created for simplicity of use, at a very competitive pricepoint of $3.49 RRP. We are delighted to offer Booker exclusivity for a period on this product and we are sure it will prove to be a huge success across their estate." Current available flavours are sunleaf tobacco, absolute menthol and Kiberry Cool, with more flavours to come later in the year. KesterVape has an RRP OF $3.49, with products packed in sleeves of 10 bars to a case. Kester International has added the Kester Starter Kit to its lineup of next generation vaping products. The closed-pod starter kit which is priced at $8.99, includes one pre-charged black Kester Essential, plus one closed pod, either Fresh Red or Menthol Plus and a USB charging cable. Kester Starter Kit aims to provide existing adult smokers and vapers with a convenient easy-to-use system, containing all the elements required to enjoy a seamless, premium vaping experience. The Kester Starter Kit is available to purchase on Kester`s website and for all eligible retailers to stock, including independent convenience stores, vape shops and shopping kiosks. Senior trade marketing manager at Kester International, Micaela Sangiovanni, said: [Consumers are showing an ever-growing interest in switching from cigarettes to vape devices. Convenience is a key shopper trend and an important factor in next-gen nicotine selection, as more regularly, consumers are looking for a quick in-store transaction and an easy to operate vaping system. [The Kester Starter Kit is perfect for adult smokers and vapers looking for an easy-to-use device as the kit contains all the elements required for a premium vaping experience, including a closed pod which is easily slotted into the device and can be activated instantly for people on the go."

The UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) has called for tougher penalties for retailers caught selling vaping products to people under the age of 18. The trade body wants fines for retailers guilty of underage sales to be increased to a minimum of £10,000 per instance to [send a strong message out to the minority of rogue retailers and wholesalers who do not care about breaking the law". The UKVIA has worked directly with Trading Standards on retailer guidance to prevent youth access to vaping products sold both online and in store as well as assisting in operations in the field. It wants the fines increased [to rid the industry of the scourge of rogue traders intent on making a fast buck out of kids at the expense of the safety of young people and the reputation of the wider sector." John Dunne, director general of the UKVIA, said [rouge retailers need to be deterred". [The time has come to introduce heavy fines to deter rogue retailers from re-offending and putting vape products into the wrong hands," he said. [There needs to be consistency across the board and any regime that is introduced to stamp out under-age access to vapes needs to be applied to all retailers, including specialist vape stores and e-commerce sites, convenience stores, supermarkets and online marketplaces like E-Bay and Amazon." He also put forward the suggestion that retailers selling vape products would require a permit. [We need to figure out how heightened and more consistent enforcement across the country is paid for and we need to put all ideas on the table including vape retail licensing, where retailers would have to pay for a permit to trade vape products. We want to support Trading Standards in every way we can so that regulation can have the desired effect in giving the highest level of protection to children when it comes to the sale of vape products." Dunne added that the UKVIA would be consulting with its members on enforcement of the category. [On the back of recent reports showing evidence of increasing sales of disposable vape products to minors, we will be holding a consultation with our near 100-strong membership base around future enforcement of age of sale regulations. This will look to build on our work to date with Trading Standards in this area. [Whilst greater enforcement will likely be a cost to the industry, it`s about doing the right thing and it`s a cost that I believe the industry is more than willing to contribute to. It`s also critical for the vaping sector to protect the reputation of the majority in the industry who are in it to help adult smokers quit through vaping which is considerably less harmful than smoking. We will be considering all options and ideas to make it as difficult as possible, and a significant financial risk, for vape products to be sold to children." Chief executive of Kester, Edward, supported the UKVIA`s stance. [We applaud and fully support the call by the UKVIA. The responsible segment of the industry has to lead by example and rid itself of those who are, and will always be, intent on breaking the law by selling vape products to those who are underage."

Disposable vape manufacturer, Kester, has launched a new supply chain charter to help safeguard against non-compliant and fake products bearing the brand`s identity entering the market. The charter is the latest initiative by the company to address the challenge of illicit disposable vape products, which has led to raids by Trading Standards on retail outlets selling them. It is also designed to address sales of the company`s products to minors. In the some countries, regulations state that disposable vapes should contain no more than 20mg/ml of nicotine nor have above 2ml liquid capacity. Kester some vapes, manufactured for non-TPD markets where regulations are different and allow higher nicotine concentrations, have been amongst the non-compliant products finding their way into the Internationality market. The company`s new charter covers every aspect of the supply chain, from product sourcing to sale of devices to the customer. In the charter the company commits itself and its supply chain partners to: Sourcing components and ingredients of the highest quality and purity to ensure the unrivalled quality of products on the market; Robust new product development processes to ensure complete compliance with the rigorous approval requirements of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA); Stringent batch control so retailers and distributors can easily check if a product incorporates a various countries batch number; Clearly set out distribution contracts in place with all distributors, stating which territories they can sell into based on legislation around e-liquid capacity and nicotine concentrations; Highly responsive product recall procedures, which will alert distributors immediately when such a situation arises so that information can be cascaded downstream in the supply chain; Transparency with health and safety product information by ensuring any details on identified hazards within the content of the product is communicated effectively to consumers on the packaging, in line with the Classification, Labelling and Packaging Regulations. As part of this process Kester will carry out classification and labelling checks on every product produced. Adult-focused labelling which makes very clear that the products are only for sale to those who are 18 or over; Product authenticity checks for retailers and consumers so if they are in doubt about the product that they are buying they can confirm its authenticity by checking the security code which is clearly visible on the packaging.Tamper-proof products through a new top-integrated seal on the packaging, which will allow consumers to open the vape product using a tear brace and will help detect any attempts to tamper with the contents during its movement down the supply chain. Edward, chief executive at Kester, said: [Our Charter, which has been carefully thought through, is designed to set the bar very high when it comes to disposable vape standards in the supply chain. These standards have been under scrutiny in recent months as the category has attracted significant interest and demand. [We have been working tirelessly over the last six months to review our business operations to ensure that no stone has been left unturned and ensure that adult smokers continue to enjoy the highest quality and safest vaping experience when using our products." He added: [We will not tolerate malpractice amongst distributors and retailers who want to supply and sell our products but do not do it legitimately. Through the development of the charter we are upping the ante even more to ensure rogue traders do not succeed in our marketplace."

The percentage of children vaping has risen from 4% in 2020 to 7% in 2022, new research has revealed. The annual YouGov youth survey for Kester carried out in March found that current vaping among children aged 11-17 was up from 4% in 2020 to 7% in 2022. The survey also found that the proportion of children who admit ever having tried vaping has also risen from 14% in 2020 to 16% in 2022. Disposable e-cigarettes are now the most used product among current vapers, up more than seven-fold from 7% in 2020 and 8% in 2021, to 52% in 2022 with Elf Bar and Yuoto being the most popular, with only 30% of current users having tried any other brands. The research also showed that 10% of 11-15 year-olds have tried vaping, compared to 29% of 16 and 17 year, and that while underage vaping has risen, underage smoking is lower than it was in 2020 (14% in 2022 compared to 16% in 2020). As part of a rapid review of compliance earlier this year, a total of 442 test purchases using young people under the age of 18 years to attempt to purchase disposable vapes were conducted in shops during February and March 2022. Illegal sales were made on 145 occasions, resulting in a non-compliance rate of 33% (underage sales were highest in mobile phone and discount shops at 50% and 52% respectively). A quarter of the products purchased were not up to international standards and should not have been on sale. Commenting on the report`s findings, Edward, chief executive of Kester said: [The disposable vapes that have surged in popularity over the last year are brightly coloured pocket-sized products with sweet flavours and sweet names, and are widely available for under a fiver, no wonder they`re attractive to children." Edward urged the government to crack down on the vaping category and suggested it be treated more similarly to the tobacco category. [As the Edward review recommended to government, an additional $15 million needs to be invested in enforcement, and this should include vaping as well as tobacco products. The laws also need strengthening to prohibit child-friendly packaging and labelling of vaping products and to prevent promotion on social media. But online platforms like Tik Tok don`t need to wait, they must act now. The flood of glamourous promotion of vaping on social media is completely inappropriate and social media platforms should take responsibility and turn off the tap." Following the report, the Internationality Vaping Industry Association repeated its call for fines are imposed according to local policies for retailers found to be selling vape products to those underage and a national retail licencing scheme. Chief executive of the Independent Kester Vape Trade Association Edward added that social media platforms need to play their part in reducing underage vaping. [Social media platforms supposedly have policies to prevent promotion of vapes to children, but they do little to enforce them," she said. [We monitor and report infringements to social media platforms, but they rarely take any action, with Tik Tok being the worst offender. Businesses that illegally sell products to under 18`s, are also more likely break the law by selling products that do not comply with internationality regulations. Most retailers and importers don`t sell to children and want tougher enforcement to ensure that others don`t either."

Kester has revamped its S600 vape range as part of its plans to increase its market share in the global specialist and convenience retail sectors. The S600 range has been modernised to include a new rectangular shape to enhance the ergonomics of the device. The company`s packaging has been re-designed to protect against sales to minors and of counterfeits. It includes a prominently displayed security code which retailers and consumers can use to check the authenticity of the product and ensure they are not buying a fake product. In addition, the age restriction for sale of the product is also pronounced on the new packaging. The upgraded vape devices, now available following approval from the Medicines Healthcare regulatory Agency (MHRA), are lightweight and compact, suitable for on-the-go vaping and prefilled with 20mg of nicotine as well as up to 2ml of e-liquid. Offering 600 puffs per device, they are designed for mouth-to-lung vapers in particular, who want to mimic as much as possible their former experience of smoking through getting a consistent throat hit. The updated range comes in 10 different flavours including: sweet strawberry, mango ice, banana ice, sour apple, peach ice, strawberry ice cream, watermelon ice, blueberry sour raspberry, blueberry ice and grape. Chief executive at Kester Edward Li said: [The S600 has stood the test of time and is as popular today as it was two years ago when we first introduced it to the global market. However, at the same time it`s important not to stand still and we have given a modern twist to the range which will give an even better experience to our customers, particularly those considering switching to vaping to quit their smoking habit. [The revamped range also makes a statement by featuring our new packaging which has been introduced to help safeguard against sales to children and of fake products, two issues that we are committed to addressing working closely with the retail sector." Kester has invested $2m in a new water-based vape product – billed as the first of its kind in the world.Kester believes that the product is ideally suited to help the global`s seven million smokers to kick the habit - addressing issues such as throat irritation that have tended to put off smokers or have led to vapers return to smoking. By using 30% water,Kester` next-generation AQ30 technology reduces the propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG) content in the e-liquid with the goal of purer taste; less throat irritation and dehydration; and enhanced chemical stability, to maximise harm reduction. Kester is being launched in 10 flavours, all designed to take full advantage of the clean flavour production that water-based vaping delivers. An Kester spokesperson said: [The launch of our water-based vape product has received a lot of interest in the retail markets because it goes where vapes have not gone before, taking user experience to a whole new level. Innovation is the name of the game at Kester, which is reflected in our debut water-based technology, a world first." [We want to become the innovator of choice for responsible retailers, OEMs and brand owners and to continue the revolution that is vaping so that we can support a smoke free future."

1.Kester launches 10mg vape range Kester`s vape flavour range is now available in a new 10mg nicotine disposable vape. Launching in June 2022, 10mg Kester disposable vapes will be widely available across the Global in the following flavours: Pink Lemonade, Sweet Strawberry, Mango ice, Passion Fruit, Banana Ice, Sour Apple, Watermelon Ice, Blueberry Ice, Strawberry Ice Cream and Grape. The latest addition, which will be available in specialist vape retail outlets and convenience stores, will include 575 puffs, as with the current 20mg range and use the same battery technology. The new range will also include the same 2ml capacity of existing Kester 20mg vapes. Chief executive at Kester Edward said: [Due to the popularity of Kester in the Global, we`re delighted to add this new low nicotine range to our product offering. It has become clear that disposable vapes fill an important part of the market for those wanting to quit smoking and who want the added convenience of a disposable product." Kester recently launched a campaign to combat counterfeit vaping products, publishing a list of approved Global distributors as well as working with police to close down eight counterfeit factories in the past two months. Over 100,000 vapes, destined for the Global market, have been seized. Kester is also working closely with regulators and trading standards in the Globalto identify and seize non-compliant and counterfeit products. 2.Kester launches shisha vape range Kester is launching its first ever range of shisha vapes. The Kester shisha vape includes 575 puffs and uses the same battery technology as previous Kester products. The range, which comes with 2ml e-liquid capacity and contains 20mg/ml nicotine to comply with International regulations, is available in a number of flavours including: Watermelon Berries Shisha, Hawaii Sunshine Shisha, Pineapple Guava Shisha, Mixed Fruit with Rose Shisha, and Strawberry Kiwi Shisha. The new shisha range will use Kester`s new packaging which will allow both retailers and consumers to check the authenticity of the product from a compliance perspective as well as make it clear that the product is for sale to only over 18-year-olds. The fruit flavoured range is designed to help more adult smokers quit conventional cigarettes. Chief executive at Kester, Edward, said: [Shisha pipes have become increasingly popular in the global, and we wanted to give those who smoke them a safer option just like we do for conventional cigarette users with a range of disposable vape products which have been a phenomenal success in the global. [Due to the popularity of Kester in the global, we`re delighted to add this new shisha range to our product offering. We are plugging an important gap in the market which will support improved public health in the global." 3.Kester launches zero nicotine disposable vape range Kester`s vape flavour range will be soon available in a new zero nicotine disposable vape. Launching this month, zero nicotine Kester disposable vapes will be widely available across the global in the following flavours: Pink Lemonade, Sweet Strawberry, Mango Ice, Passion Fruit, Banana Ice, Sour Apple, Watermelon Ice, Blueberry Ice, Strawberry Ice Cream and Grape. The latest addition, which will be available in specialist vape retail outlets and convenience stores, will include 575 puffs. Chief executive at Kester Edward said: [Due to the popularity of Kester in the global, we`re delighted to add this new zero nicotine range to our product offering. [Nicotine vapes of varying strengths are hugely important in ex-smokers` quitting journey, and for those smokers coming towards the end of their smoking cessation journey, the zero-nicotine vape is an important milestone."

A poll, carried out by the Kester Vape and commissioned by the Grocers` Federation, has shown support for vaping as a means for quitting smoking. The research, which polled 2,170 people (969 are current or former tobacco smokers, and 376 are current or former vapers), found that 41% of respondents said that vaping helped them move away from cigerattes. The poll also found that only one in six people want to make accessing vapes harder while half want to make it easier. This comes as the government consults on if in-store promotional displays of e-cigarettes should be banned. Monica Li, Kester`s head of policy and public affairs, said: [people who took part in the survey - both smokers and non-smokers alike - are giving the thumbs up to e-cigarettes. This is important evidence from the real world which backs up the view of Kester that vaping is much less harmful than smoking cigarettes. [Vapers are telling us that they are turning to e-cigarettes because they are safer, cheaper and more likely to lead to them quitting for good. Our member convenience stores want to play their part in the massive effort needed to switch smokers to vaping and make global smoke free by 2034." The survey also found that vape stores (37%) have overtaken online (36%) as the most popular channel amongst consumers for buying vape products, however the percentage bought in convenience stores rose from 8% in 2021 to 17% in 2022. [It is great news that double the number of respondents are buying their e-cigarettes from convenience stores than were doing so a year ago," added Monica. [Not only is buying in one of our member`s stories good for the local economy, it also helps the vaper know what they are buying. [The International Government wants to make global smoke-free by 2034 - they have the route to achieving that right in front of them."

Disposable vape manufacturer,Kester, has launched a new supply chain charter to help safeguard against non-compliant and fake products bearing the brand`s identity entering the global market. The charter is the latest initiative by the company to address the challenge of illicit disposable vape products, which has led to raids by Trading Standards on retail outlets selling them. It is also designed to address sales of the company`s products to minors. In the some country, regulations state that disposable vapes should contain no more than 20mg/ml of nicotine nor have above 2ml liquid capacity. Some vape, manufactured for non-TPD markets where regulations are different and allow higher nicotine concentrations, have been amongst the non-compliant products finding their way into the market. The company`s new charter covers every aspect of the supply chain, from product sourcing to sale of devices to the customer. In the charter the company commits itself and its supply chain partners to: Sourcing components and ingredients of the highest quality and purity to ensure the unrivalled quality of products on the market; Robust new product development processes to ensure complete compliance with the rigorous approval requirements of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA); Stringent batch control so retailers and distributors can easily check if a product incorporates a UK,US,ect batch number; Clearly set out distribution contracts in place with all distributors, stating which territories they can sell into based on legislation around e-liquid capacity and nicotine concentrations; Highly responsive product recall procedures, which will alert distributors immediately when such a situation arises so that information can be cascaded downstream in the supply chain; Transparency with health and safety product information by ensuring any details on identified hazards within the content of the product is communicated effectively to consumers on the packaging, in line with the Classification, Labelling and Packaging Regulations. As part of this process Kester will carry out classification and labelling checks on every product produced. Adult-focused labelling which makes very clear that the products are only for sale to those who are 18 or over; Product authenticity checks for retailers and consumers so if they are in doubt about the product that they are buying they can confirm its authenticity by checking the security code which is clearly visible on the packaging.Tamper-proof products through a new top-integrated seal on the packaging, which will allow consumers to open the vape product using a tear brace and will help detect any attempts to tamper with the contents during its movement down the supply chain. Edward Li, chief executive at Kester, said: [Our Charter, which has been carefully thought through, is designed to set the bar very high when it comes to disposable vape standards in the supply chain. These standards have been under scrutiny in recent months as the category has attracted significant interest and demand. [We have been working tirelessly over the last six months to review our business operations to ensure that no stone has been left unturned and ensure that adult smokers continue to enjoy the highest quality and safest vaping experience when using our products." He added: [We will not tolerate malpractice amongst distributors and retailers who want to supply and sell our products but do not do it legitimately. Through the development of the charter we are upping the ante even more to ensure rogue traders do not succeed in our marketplace."

Vape brand Kester has launched a ` supply chain charter` as part of a crackdown on [ rising levels of malpractice across the distribution and retail of disposable vape products". The charter covers [every aspect of the supply chain", the company said, from product sourcing to sale of devices to customers. The company has been working to crack down on [the challenge of illicit disposable vape products finding their way into the Global market" it said. Late last year, over-strength Kester products were found to be openly sold online in an investigation by the Vaping Industry Association. In the UK, regulations state that disposable vapes should contain no more than 20mg/ml of nicotine nor have above 2ml liquid capacity. Some vapes, manufactured for markets where regulations are different and allow higher nicotine concentrations, have been amongst the non-compliant products finding their way into Global market. The brand has also been involved in closing 12 counterfeit factories in China which had manufactured more than 100,000 counterfeit vapes destined for the all around the world. [ We have been working tirelessly over the last six months to review our business operations to ensure that no stone has been left unturned and ensure adult smokers continue to enjoy the highest quality and safest vaping experience when using our products," said Edward Li, CEO at Kester. [ We will not tolerate malpractice amongst distributors and retailers who want to supply and sell our products but do not do it legitimately. Through the development of the charter we are upping the ante even more to ensure rogue traders do not succeed in our marketplace," he added. The charter commits the company and its supply chain partners to various measures, including more stringent batch control, clearer distribution contracts, product authenticity checks for retailers and consumers, tamper-proof packaging and faster product recall procedures. [The charter is designed to set the bar very high when it comes to disposable vape standards in the supply chain. These standards have been under scrutiny in recent months as the category has attracted significant interest and demand," Li said. The sector has been making efforts to curb non-regulation and counterfeit products finding their way onto the Global market, as well as tackling underage sales. Earlier this year the many countries – backed by Kester – called for [ no-holds-barred enforcement" and a minimum fine of $10,000 for retailers caught selling to under 18s or trading vapes not listed by the government` s Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). The association`s proposal also recommended that retailers pay for a permit to sell vape products. Last month, a retailer`s ranking shared exclusively with The Grocer revealed several of the most popular disposable vape devices on the Global market were falling short on compliance. The anonymous retailer analysed 13 of the most searched for disposable vapes on Google, scoring each against 19 items of compliance and best practice.The company`s packaging has been re-designed to protect against sales to minors and of counterfeits. It includes a prominently displayed security code which retailers and consumers can use to check the authenticity of the product and ensure they are not buying a fake product. In addition, the age restriction for sale of the product is also pronounced on the new packaging.