Asda is trialling a vape and cigarette vending machine at its Ashton-under-Lyne store.
As part of proof-of-concept testing, the customer purchase journey remains unchanged as the machine has been placed behind a kiosk desk at the store. But there is potential for shoppers to self-serve nicotine products and other age-restricted items.
The first phase of the trials sees shoppers wanting to buy any tobacco products, vape products and certain Nicorette SKUs request the product from a member of staff, who selects it on a screen, before the product is dispensed. The staff member then scans it through the till and takes payment from the shopper.
However, it is understood there is scope in the future for customers to self-serve using the machine – StrongPoint’s Vensafe dispenser – and for it to stock a broader range of high-shrinkage and age-restricted products such as razors, batteries and painkillers. The customer would select the product they want from a screen situated at an ordering point or aisle shelf, and would receive a printed ticket which they scan and pay for at a self-service till, where age approval would take place. Upon payment they would receive another printed ticket, which they take to a machine to dispense the product.
The move is expected to “help prevent antisocial behaviour” an Asda spokesman said. A second phase of the trial could further remove staff from potentially antisocial or unsafe situations, The Grocer understands.
The sale of cigarettes from vending machines became illegal in England in 2011, however StrongPoint says that because payment is taken and age verification occurs via a store colleague, its solution remains within regulations.
Cigarettes are a prime target of thieves, and a flashpoint for incidents of violence and abuse against retail workers, which rose by 50% to 1,300 a day in 2023 according to the BRC. The Grocer earlier this year reported an incident where a Spar worker in Wiltshire was attacked by thieves wielding axes and bats, who stole £10,000 worth of cigarettes, and another at a Stafford Spar in which £20,000 worth of cigarettes were taken in a midnight break-in.
StrongPoint says its system, given products are accessible only after payment, “virtually eliminates the possibility of theft”. And since the machine tracks all door openings and stock changes, it “reduces shrinkage from internal theft to nearly zero”. Applied to other commonly stolen products, the solution avoids the need for on-item security tags or lock boxes.
The system is a common sight in other European markets, particularly Norway and Sweden, where they are found in most stores. StrongPoint says across Europe there are 2,500 stores with a Vensafe.
A July National Business Crime Centre report, funded by the Home Office, notes that “the financial rewards of stealing tobacco far outweigh the risk of being caught and then any likely punishment”.
Report author Professor Emmeline Taylor, City, University of London, said: “Tobacco theft has emerged as a lucrative proposition for organised career criminals who exploit its relatively hidden nature. They operate with the knowledge that not only is there a low likelihood of detection, but if they are apprehended, the penalties will likely be minimal if they do not use or threaten violence during an offence.
“With the increase in tax on tobacco products and the proposed generational ban, the demand for stolen and counterfeit tobacco is set to increase dramatically,” she added.
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