British American Tobacco says not enough independent retailers are aware price-marked packs will be banned under plain packaging laws.

The plain packaging regulations will come into force on 20 May 2016 and have a 12-month “sell-through” period for retailers expiring on 20 May 2017, after which all tobacco products must comply with the new packaging laws and will no longer have a clear, price-marked wrap.

“We know that independent retail has benefited through the convenience and transparency offered by price-marked packs,” said British American Tobacco plain packaging project manager Terri Dainter.

“We believe that the removal of price-marked packs could potentially create confusion for independent retailers and diminish the reassurance of value that price-marked packs offer for adult consumers. Maintaining availability of all products at competitive prices throughout and post the transition will be key to ensuring independent retailers face minimal loss in the category.”

Information on tar, nicotine and carbon monoxide will also be removed on the new packs, as well as any reference to taste, smell, additives or flavourings.

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