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Author Hannah Rubery Categories E-Liquid, Manufacturing, White Label Posted on

Pros and Cons of White Label Manufacturing and OEM for E-Liquid Production

When it comes to E-Liquid manufacturing, there are two main options: White Label Manufacturing and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). Both offer distinct advantages in terms of cost, production speed, and product quality, but also have their own unique sets of benefits that must be considered when making a decision. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of white-label manufacturing and OEM for manufacturing E-Liquid in the UK.

Pros of White Label Manufacturing

When it comes to white-label manufacturing, one of the key advantages is that it is a lower-cost option. As the products are already pre-made by the manufacturer, there is no need for extra time or resources to be spent on creating new designs. This can help reduce overall costs and maintain a competitive price point in the market.

Additionally, white-label manufacturing provides quick production times as the products are already created and ready to go. This means that turnaround can be much quicker than with OEM options.

Finally, white-label manufacturers like Xyfil have decades of experience in developing high-quality products that meet industry standards, providing superior products for customers. These products are already compliant and established so quality is assured when choosing white-label manufactured products.

Cons of White Label Manufacturing

The main downside of white-label manufacturing is that it offers limited customization options. This can be a disadvantage for those looking for special or unique designs, as these may not be available through this option.

Another con of white-label manufacturing is the increased risk of unauthorized copying and replication. As products are already created, there is a greater risk of other companies copying the designs and replicating them. This can be a major issue for businesses looking to protect their intellectual property.

Pros of OEM

On the other hand, OEM offers a much greater level of customization than white-label manufacturing. With this option, there is the ability to create products from scratch with custom designs and features that are unique to your business. This provides an even greater level of control over the product design process, allowing for more creative freedom and the ability to match products with your brand’s identity.

In addition, when working with an OEM like Xyfil, businesses can have greater assurance that their products meet all quality control and regulatory requirements. As a highly certified manufacturer, Xyfil provides superior products that are compliant with industry standards. This allows for peace of mind when it comes to E-Liquid production.

Cons of OEM

While there are many benefits associated with using an OEM, one of the main drawbacks is that it typically has a higher cost than white-label manufacturing. This is due to the extra time and resources needed to produce custom products from scratch.

Additionally, production times can be much longer with OEM than white-label manufacturing. As the products are created from the ground up, more time and effort is needed to create the desired product. This can lead to delays in delivery and higher costs due to extended lead times.

How Xyfil can help you

Xyfil offers a one-stop solution for E-Liquid manufacture, whether you choose white label or OEM. With 10+ years of experience in creating premium vape products for markets in the UK and across the globe, Xyfil's highly certified and superior products guarantee satisfaction. We provide support throughout the entire production process to ensure that your E-Liquid products meet all quality and regulatory requirements.

From creating custom designs, and simple to complex flavours to providing quick production times and helping with distribution, Xyfil has the expertise to ensure that your e-liquid business is successful. Whether you choose white label or OEM, Xyfil can help you create the best products for your customers and stay ahead of the competition.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, both methods of E-Liquid manufacturing, white label and OEM, offer distinct benefits as well as drawbacks that should be considered before making a decision. No matter what your E-Liquid needs are, Xyfil has the expertise to help you create superior products that meet all industry standards and stand out from the competition. With a professional team of experts guiding you every step of the way, you can rest assured knowing that Xyfil will help you create the best products for your customers.

Author Hannah Rubery Categories Compliance, E-Liquid, Other, Xyfil Updates Posted on

Changes to Certification & Fees for Vape Products in the UAE

The vaping industry in the UAE is continuing to grow with a projected revenue of US$59.38 million in 2023 – that’s almost double from 2019 when vapes first became able to be legally sold in the UAE. The market is also expected to grow by 9.41% from 2023 to 2027.

Recently in the UAE, the MoIAT (previously vape products were regulated by ESMA) registration fee has changed, no doubt due to the surge in the vaping market.

Changes to UAE registration fee

To legally sell vaping products in the UAE, E-Liquids and devices must be registered for approval with the MoIAT (Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology). Typically, this is a service that can be provided via agencies, but Xyfil also offers compliance services, whether you’ve manufactured with us or not.

Registering your product for sale in the UAE requires two separate fees:

1) Certificate issuing fee: (It must be paid to the MoIAT). These fees have been reduced from AED 5000 to AED 670 per application.

2) Document review fee: (It must be paid to the notified body). There has been no change on this and it is still AED 800 per application.

For a full breakdown regarding products, see below.

 OLDNEW
LABELAED 5,000AED 670
PRODUCT-LIQUIDAED 5,000AED 670
RoHSAED 1,000AED 1,000
PRODUCT-DEVICEAED 5,000AED 670

There have also been some changes with the registration process. Originally, a single application could include different variations of flavours; so, if you had an E-Liquid flavour in several strengths, you could register them all under one application. This has since been changed and a separate application must be submitted for each sku that has a barcode. Should you wish to register a multipack of the same flavour and nicotine strength, along with the single pack variation, this will require two separate applications.

How Xyfil can help you with registering compliant products in the UAE

“Our in-house team of compliance experts are able to perform the necessary toxicology tests and full reports required by MoIAT. More critically, we are able to gather all necessary data into the format required by the MoIAT. With popular brands we manufacture like Pod Salt fast becoming one of the most popular brands in the UAE, we’re here to help bring even more premium brands to the Middle East.”

-Pradip, Compliance, Xyfil.

Since the changes in 2019 that allowed for the selling of E-Cigarettes and E-Liquids in the UAE, we have been successfully manufacturing and selling compliant products in the Middle East. With a valid UAE Industry/Trade License, we are licensed to manufacture products for UAE within the UK. This helps to ensure that our products benefit from the superior British standard for manufacturing E-Liquids.

As a Toll Manufacturer with ISO 9001 and GMP certification, we are skilled with over 10 years of experience in manufacturing, production, R&D, logistics, compliance and more. Whether you are looking to take an existing product and turn it into one for sale within the UAE, or looking to manufacture a whole new product range we at Xyfil can help you through any and all stages of compliance.

Talk to us and book a meeting today.

Author Hannah Rubery Categories E-Liquid, Production Posted on

Standing Out from the Crowd in the 2023 Vaping Industry

In the vaping industry, product descriptions play a crucial role in helping E-Liquid brands stand out from the crowd. With so many E-Liquids available online, it can be difficult for a brand to differentiate itself and attract customers. However, by crafting effective product descriptions, E-Liquid brands can set themselves apart and increase their chances of success.

Creating a voice for your E-Liquid brand

Building a brand voice for an E-Liquid brand can help to establish a unique identity and differentiate the brand from its competitors. Here are some steps to help build brand voice:

  1. Define your brand's personality: Determine the personality of your brand, such as whether it is fun and playful, sophisticated and luxury, or serious and professional. This will serve as a foundation for all your messaging and content.
  2. Develop a tone of voice: Based on your brand's personality, develop a tone of voice that will be consistent across all your content, including product descriptions, social media posts, and other marketing materials.
  3. Use storytelling: Use storytelling to convey the brand's message and values. Share the story of how the brand started, its mission, and the unique features and benefits of the E-Liquids.
  4. Be consistent: Consistency is key when building brand voice. Make sure that all your content, whether it's a product description, social media post, or email newsletter, uses the same tone of voice and messaging.
  5. Use imagery: Use imagery that aligns with the brand's personality and messaging. For example, if your brand is fun and playful, use bright colours and playful imagery in your marketing materials.
  6. Engage with customers: Engage with customers on social media and other platforms to build a relationship and create a sense of community. This can help to build trust and loyalty.
  7. Keep the brand voice in mind: Always keep the brand voice in mind when creating content and make sure that it aligns with the brand's personality and messaging.

By following these steps, an E-Liquid brand can establish a unique and consistent brand voice that will help to differentiate it from its competitors and attract customers.

Give your products a voice and make them tell a story

One way to make your E-Liquid and vape product descriptions stand out is by highlighting the unique flavours and ingredients used in your products. For example, instead of simply listing the flavours in your E-Liquid, describe the taste experience and the specific flavours used to create that product. This not only helps customers understand what they can expect but also sets your E-Liquid apart from others that may use generic or similar flavours.

Specifics pave the way to understanding

Another way to make your product descriptions stand out is by emphasizing the quality of your E-Liquids. Many customers are wary of cheap, low-quality E-Liquids, so highlighting the use of high-quality ingredients and manufacturing processes can help to build trust and credibility with potential customers.

In addition, providing detailed information about the nicotine strength and VG/PG ratio of your E-Liquids can be helpful for customers looking for specific vaping experiences.

You can also include customer reviews and testimonials in your product descriptions. This can be a powerful way to build trust and credibility with potential customers.

Finishing touches

Finally, it's important to keep your product descriptions up-to-date. With new flavours, ingredients, and trends constantly emerging in the vaping industry, it's important to regularly review and update your product descriptions to ensure that they are accurate and relevant.

In summary, to make your e-liquid product descriptions stand out from the crowd, focus on highlighting the unique flavours and ingredients used in your e-liquids, emphasizing the quality of your e-liquids, providing detailed information about nicotine strength and VG/PG ratio, including customer reviews and testimonials, using high-quality images and videos, and keeping your product descriptions up-to-date. By following these tips, E-Liquid brands can effectively differentiate themselves and attract customers in the competitive vaping industry.

Author Hannah Rubery Categories E-Liquid, Manufacturing, Other Posted on

Creating a Cost-Effective E-Liquid Brand for 2023

A lot has happened over the last couple of years between Brexit, the pandemic and of course the ongoing turmoil that has led to sky-rocketing prices. It’s not surprising that brands are considering looking at ways to cut their costs, but is it worth it? Brand owners should look at it holistically without compromising product quality. Read more about becoming more cost-effective in our latest article.

What’s driving the desire to be more cost-effective?

Overseas brands bringing cheaper E-Liquids

It began with the influx of Chinese-manufactured disposable devices taking the UK by storm. At the time this didn’t worry E-Liquid brands as much but now there’s a growing shift towards E-Liquids once more, these same overseas brands are now beginning to import E-Liquids, not just disposables. Manufactured in China, these E-Liquids often are cheaper in price to produce.

Unfortunately, this opens the possibility for some products of questionable quality and unregulated E-Liquids, to arrive in UK markets. British-manufactured E-Liquids, like those manufactured by Xyfil, understand the importance of quality and follow GMP and ISO guidelines to ensure this quality is passed onto the products we produce.

Inflation across the market

Another influence on the cost and pricing of products has of course been inflation. Across the globe, countries are feeling the sting of inflated prices. In the UK, it was recorded at 11.1% in October, rising at the fastest pace in 40 years.

The UK’s cost of living crisis

This has also led to the cost-of-living crisis as inflation impacts the pricing of consumer products. With the rising costs of essentials, some items are becoming more of a luxury than some can afford. Because of this, consumers are looking to cut costs and spend less.

Is it possible to create a cost-effective brand?

Quality vs Cost

Making cuts to your brand to help lower costs can impact on the quality of your products. Sourcing alternative ingredients that are lower in quality or manufacturing overseas, can negatively impact your product and your brand overall. Studies have shown that consumers can tell the difference between brands that are shrinking or ‘skimping’ on their products due to inflation. The last thing you want for your brand is to lose the confidence of your consumers.

Cutting back and trimming down

That’s not to say there aren’t ways of trimming down that don’t impact on your quality. Some brands have already started looking at ways to remove unneeded packaging in an effort to cut prices. Removing the need for cardboard boxes would help remove part of the cost of E-Liquids, however, the need to adhere to regulations and provide warnings would need to still be fulfilled.

There are many options which would be great from a sustainability standpoint but do not necessarily equate to cutting costs. New technologies like linerless labels help to improve efficiency and lower costs, but the technology itself requires an initial cost.

Simplicity vs complexity

E-Liquid flavours can quickly tot up the costs when creating a new product range. The more complex a flavour, the more ingredients are used to create that exact flavour. Keeping things simple might not make you stand out in a crowd, but it helps to keep the price down.

Getting creative with limits

Often, a prestigious brand looks the way it does because of the finishes and special touches added to the product packaging. But creative brands can certainly make use of the ‘less is more' approach and create eye-catching designs with simpler finishes. Setting a limit on the number of finishes and seeing what your designers can create will open more room for creativity.

Planning is key to managing costs

Leading on from this, it’s important to establish your plan brief with your manufacturer, and not just at the initial point of conception. Actively planning the details of your product from flavour to ratio to bottle size, to design and even how you wish to market it, can help tailor it to a more cost-effective product. Be honest and upfront with your brief to see exactly what your budget can achieve.

The pros of white label manufacturing

An option available for brands looking to create cost-effective products is white-label manufacturing. By selecting already pre-registered products to rebrand under your logo, not only do you save on compliance costs but benefit from high-quality products that are tried, tested, and approved.

Why you shouldn’t compromise products to cut costs

The Good-Better-Best (G-B-B) pricing approach

It’s a concept that many businesses have yet to touch on but those that have, see surprising benefits. What is G-B-B? The Good-Better-Best pricing approach is an option for businesses in which their product offering and pricing are tiered. This is often seen in the forms of products with 'regular', 'plus', and 'super' versions. This could be gadgets, subscriptions, consumables and more.

So perhaps the discussion shouldn’t be how you can make your brand cost-effective, but how your brand could make a cost-effective product part of your range.

Cost-effective vs Cost efficiency

It may sound the same, but they differ and can make a big difference in your products. Being cost-effective is predominantly about getting the task done adequately; in a way, you can think of this as the bare minimum to create your desired product. Being cost-efficient however is getting the job done the right way with the least amount of waste and optimising your available resources.

In terms of E-Liquids, the most cost-effective way to create a budget-friendly brand would be to establish a new product offering that focuses on simplicity and meeting consumers’ needs. Rather than complex designs across the packaging, garner more interest with simple designs and a finish that is eye-catching. Source locally and don’t compromise on product quality to ensure you don’t harm your brand’s reputation.

Choosing to be cost-effective is a sure way to end up compromising your products and your brand. But aiming to become cost-efficient may see some initial cost but is more likely to provide longer-returning benefits.

Author Hannah Rubery Categories E-Liquid, Manufacturing, Regulations Posted on

Countries Around the Globe with Vape Flavour Bans

Updated 21st March, 2025.

Regulations around vaping change often across the globe, with countries making changes each year, whether for better or worse. It’s important for manufacturers, retailers and brands to be aware of the latest regulatory changes to ensure vaping products remain relevant and compliant.

One such regulatory change that seems to be occurring more frequently, is the ban on flavoured vapes. Many governments have elected to ban flavoured vapes in the hopes of dissuading those who are underage, from vaping. Although research has suggested that flavours play a crucial role for vapers on their quit-smoking journey, there are many countries that have implemented this ban or are planning to do so.

China bans flavoured vapes but not for exports

As of October, the country has become yet another to ban flavoured vapes with plans to only sell tobacco-flavoured vapes. Interestingly though, China has not banned the export of flavoured vapes, only the use within its own country. This began the recent overhaul of vaping regulations in China which include a consumption tax.

China’s ban on flavours stems from the same concern shared by others on the health risks for young people who take up vaping. However, research has noted that flavours other than tobacco, play a part in helping users quit smoking. Perhaps alternatives to flavour bans need to be looked at to help minimise the potential losses of helping smokers quit with vapes.

Other countries that have banned flavoured vapes

Although vaping is legal in these countries, they too have implemented flavour bans on vaping products, limiting them to tobacco with or without the inclusion of mint & menthol. If you are interested in taking your brand to any of the below countries, you will need to tailor your products to the current limitations.

Canada

  • Nova Scotia - tobacco only
  • Ontario – tobacco, mint & menthol (vape stores are allowed stock flavours)
  • Prince Edward Island – tobacco only
  • Quebec (potential) – unconfirmed
  • Saskatchewan – tobacco, mint & menthol

US

  • Colorado (allowed in vape shops & tobacconists, not traditional retail outlets)
  • Connecticut (pending) – unconfirmed
  • Chicago – tobacco only
  • Maine (pending) – unconfirmed
  • Maryland (pending) – unconfirmed
  • Massachusetts – tobacco only
  • Minnesota (only cities Minneapolis, St. Paul and Duluth) – tobacco only
  • Kansas City (pending) – unconfirmed
  • Missoula – tobacco only
  • New Jersey – tobacco only
  • New Mexico (pending) – unconfirmed
  • New York (except for those permitted by the FDA) – tobacco only unless FDA approved
  • Rhode Island – tobacco only
  • Utah (potential) – unconfirmed
  • Vermont (pending) – unconfirmed

EU

  • Lithuania – tobacco only
  • Latvia - tobacco only
  • Finland – tobacco only
  • Estonia – tobacco & menthol
  • Hungary – tobacco only
  • Denmark – tobacco and menthol
  • Netherlands – tobacco only
  • Slovenia – tobacco only
  • Spain - *proposed ban* - potentially will be limited to tobacco & menthol

In countries such as Lithuania, Latvia, and the Netherlands, regulatory authorities have gone a step further by restricting manufacturers to a predefined list of flavouring compounds deemed to contribute to a tobacco-like sensory experience. These compounds include:

CAS NumberSubstance NameFlavour Description
35044-68-9beta-DamasconeBlackcurrant, plum, rose, honey, tobacco
23726-91-2(E)-beta-DamasconeBlackcurrant, plum, rose, honey, tobacco
23726-92-3(Z)-beta-DamasconeBlackcurrant, plum, rose, honey, tobacco
23696-85-7DamascenoneFruity-floral with apple, plum, raisin, prune, tea, rose, tobacco notes
23726-93-4(E)-beta-DamascenoneFruity-floral with apple, plum, raisin, prune, tea, rose, tobacco notes
1125-21-9KetoisophoroneTobacco-like, hay-straw, tea notes, honey
4883-60-72-Hydroxy-3,5,5-trimethyl-2-cyclohexenoneSweet, musty tea, caramelic odour, musty, tea, nutty, tobacco taste
536-78-73-EthylpyridineStrong tobacco, roasted, nutty, smoky notes odour, tobacco-like flavour
350-03-83-AcetylpyridineStrong, burnt roasted, nutty, cigar tobacco-like
91-10-12,6-DimethoxyphenolPhenolic-woody-medicinal, smoky odour; a tarry, spicy, smoky (bacon) taste
67-47-05-(Hydroxymethyl)-2-furfuralHerbaceous winey hay-like odour, sweet herbaceous hay & tobacco-like taste
591-12-8alpha-Angelica lactoneSweet, bread, molasses, coumarin, tobacco odour; nut-like taste
503-74-2Isovaleric acidVery sour, ‘sweaty,’ cheesy odour; fruity on dilution
1139-30-6(-)Caryophyllene oxideDry, woody, faint cedar, tobacco-like notes
3738-00-9AmbroxinIntense velvety ambergris notes
564-20-5(3aR)-(+)-SclareolideCedary; impact compound of certain tobaccos; fish & berry flavour improver

Other

  • Ukraine – tobacco only
  • China – tobacco only
  • New Zealand (partial flavour ban, only speciality vape shops can sell flavours) – tobacco, mint & menthol unless sold by speciality vape shops.

Create your signature tobacco vape range with Xyfil

Just because these countries have limited their selection to tobacco flavours, with some offering mint & menthol also, doesn’t mean your brand should miss out. Tobacco flavours can be distinct and unique thanks to the wide variety of tobacco brands we can recreate.

Our E-Liquid manufacturing solutions offer premium products and versatile services. Whether you want to opt for white label manufacture or OEM, we can cater to your needs and the regulations of whichever country you wish to resale in. By using our premium, award-winning nicotine salt formula, along with our high-quality tobacco flavours that have gone on to win awards, your brand is in safe hands.

Contact us today to find out how we can help you create the next, best Tobacco range of E-Liquids.

Author Hannah Rubery Categories E-Liquid, Regulations Posted on

China’s Latest Regulation Changes Include Vaping Tax

New legislation in China has taken effect as of the 1st of November, which continues to change the landscape of the Chinese vaping industry. Last year changes were made that established a need for Chinese E-Cigarette companies, to obtain a license to be able to continue selling to customers.

Along with this change, the requirements and regulations that were introduced triggered a wave of closures, especially in hardware manufacturing. And these new changes could bring even more issues for Chinese vapers and manufacturers.

The new vaping tax implemented in China

On the 1st of November, the Chinese government implemented a new tax on vaping products. This consumption tax includes a 36% tax on the production or import of E-Cigarettes and an 11% tax on wholesale distribution in China. China’s Ministry of Finance has announced that E-Cigarette products will now be a sub-item under the tobacco tax item list.

Companies that have a license from the tobacco monopoly authorities (STMA) to produce E-Liquids, or companies that have obtained/licensed the use of a registered trademark or another company’s E-Cigarette products, will have their consumption tax calculated differently depending on how the products are sold or produced. Similarly, for E-Cigarettes made through an OEM, it is down the company that owns the trademark is liable for the consumption tax.

  • Producers and wholesalers pay tax based on the sales of the production and wholesale of E-Cigarettes. 
  • Companies that sell E-Cigarettes through an agency in the production process must pay tax based on the sales of the distributors or agents to the e-cigarette wholesaler.
  • Importers of E-Cigarettes must pay tax based on the component taxable price.
  • Companies engaged in processing E-Cigarettes in the production cycle must calculate the sales of trademarked e-cigarettes and the sales of OEM e-cigarettes separately; if they are not accounted for separately, they must pay consumption tax together.

Is there a concern about exports? A later announcement clarified that exports of E-Cigarettes are eligible for the tax refund and exemption policy. This means that although the internal Chinese vaping industry is expected to feel the pinch, exports will not see the same treatment.

What is concerning though is the potential for more Chinese E-Cigarette companies to begin struggling to keep up with the added tax. Not to mention the added cost that very likely could be transferred to consumers in China.

These changes come from China’s further clampdowns on vaping products that saw flavoured vapes banned. Having started in October, only tobacco-flavoured vapes are to be sold in China.

Are there any positives from these changes?

One thing is for sure, with the increasing legislation in China, it has begun a crackdown on requirements for E-Cigarettes and vape products in an effort to improve quality. These include regulations on the battery, ceramic coil, nicotine content, and flavours.

What these changes do help is establish a greater baseline for good quality products. Ensuring that vape products meet these criteria could help in reducing the presence of fake disposables and lower-quality E-Liquids that have begun to flood the market.

The largely untapped market of potential vapers

The Chinese vape industry has seen a similar explosion in growth as most of the world these past few years. With a smoking population of around 300 million, China is a prime spot for pushing the quit-smoking journey with the aid of vaping.

And yet the rate of E-Cigarettes usage in China is far behind other countries such as the UK and US; a mere 1.5% compared to 30%. Therefore, there is significant room for expansion but with these latest regulation changes, it may become harder to do so. Only time will tell if more high-quality vaping products will make their way into the Chinese market.

Author Hannah Rubery Categories Compliance, E-Liquid Posted on

New Certification – Philippines Vaping Regulations Update

Recently, the Philippines took the vaping industry by storm with the news of its progressive vaping laws. The updated legislation helped to cement vaping as a legal smoking cessation tool and new rules are being introduced to help ensure the safety and quality of vaping products in the Philippines.

Certification for vaping products in the Philippines

The Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS), an agency part of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), has recently added E-Cigarettes to the list of consumer goods subject to mandatory certification.

The recent vape law which came into effect on August 13th, 2022, regulates the importation, manufacture, sale, packaging, distribution, use, and communication of E-Cigarettes or vapes. But under the DTI Order 22-06, Series of 2022, E-Cigarettes and E-Liquids as well as HTPs will be subject to mandatory certification from January 4th, 2024.

This certification process is hoped to ensure the quality of vaping products and prevent illicit trade.

What this means for those importing to the Philippines

With these changes, it means that products covered by the BPS Mandatory Product Certification Schemes will be required to bear the Philippine Standard (PS) mark or Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker. This helps to identify whether the products have been certified to conform to the necessary quality standards.

This will cover both E-Cigarette devices and E-Liquid.

Before this deadline, importers to the Philippines can voluntarily opt for a Philippine Standard mark or Import Commodity Clearance. To ensure your products meet the criteria for importing into the Philippines, you can check the DTI for more information.

How Xyfil can help with compliance

As a leading E-Liquid manufacturer in the UK, we have over ten years of experience in manufacturing and producing high-quality products around the globe. We are able to tailor products to match vaping regulations for countless countries including the UK, EU, US, and Middle East. Not only can we manufacture E-Liquid products to the specifications you require, but our in-house compliance team also excels in ensuring your products meet the requirements for where you wish to sell.

We have helped countless brands take their products to markets across the globe by offering compliance services. Not only can we make your products to spec, but run the necessary laboratory tests and process products with the necessary government agencies on your behalf.

If you would like to see how we can help you with your E-Liquid brand or create a new range, contact us today.

Author Hannah Rubery Categories Compliance, E-Liquid, Regulations Posted on

Avoiding Confusion with Nicotine-Free Disposables Legality

Zero-nicotine disposables are growing in popularity, but some stores are worried to stock them.

Disposable vapes are a perfect first step for many vapers as they offer a convenient and simple way to vape. Recently, some brands have branched out into developing 0mg nicotine disposables which provide all the flavour but without nicotine. But there have been reports of retailers being hesitant about stocking these sorts of devices.

Local shops refusing to stock nicotine-free disposables – why the confusion?

It seems there’s been some confusion with nicotine-free vaping products as some stores in the UK show hesitancy with stocking them. BetterRetailing reported that stores were refusing 3,500 puff nicotine-free devices with tank capacities above 2ml. Not all zero-nicotine disposable vapes offer such a high puff count, but many are beginning to do so.

So, why the confusion? By now, most are aware of what is TPD compliant (the UK regulations for vaping products). When it comes to disposable devices, we know that the E-Liquid capacity should be no more than 2ml which means they are usually capped at 600 puffs (650 at a push). And with recent store raids tackling illicit vapes that are not TPD compliant, it’s not hard to see why some stores are turning away these 0mg devices.

However, TPD guidelines are restrictions for nicotine-containing products, and thereby nicotine-free devices are exempt from these rules. Much like how shortfill E-Liquids are exempt from the restrictions which is why they can be larger than 10ml (the max capacity for nicotine-containing E-Liquids). Nicotine-free disposable vapes, if they contain no nicotine whatsoever, are legal in the UK at higher puff counts and capacity.

You can find more information on compliance with disposable devices in the UKVIA's guide.

The pros and cons of zero nicotine disposables

Nicotine-free disposables are yet another part of a vaper’s quit-smoking journey. Although they won’t help with quitting tobacco at the beginning, many vapers find that over time, they lower their nicotine strength after vaping for some time.

Since nicotine is an addictive substance that many want eventually to also quit, 0mg vapes are the perfect solution for vapers at the last leg of their quitting journey. These types of devices allow vapers to enjoy their favourite flavours and vaping experience without the addictive nicotine.

Zero-nicotine devices also allow for a smoother vape due to a lesser throat hit with the absence of nicotine.

Why retailers should consider stocking 0mg devices

As we mentioned, zero nicotine vapes are perfectly legal in the UK, including those at higher puff counts and tank capacities – so long as it is confirmed they are 0mg. No nicotine disposables offer a final stepping stone for vapers to quit nicotine whilst still enjoying their favourite brand or flavours. Vapers who already vape at low nicotine strengths can opt to use these nicotine-free devices as a means of quitting nicotine.

They are also suitable for casual smokers who may not need the nicotine hit as much as heavy smokers, but still struggle to quit because of the habits created by smoking. As vaping mimics, the motions of smoking a cigarette, these sorts of devices could be of benefit to light/casual smokers to quit cigarettes.

Vape retailers who can cater to a smoker’s quitting journey from start to finish may see greater customer loyalty and retention.

White label and OEM zero-nicotine products

Here at Xyfil we produce and manufacture a variety of E-Liquids for brands that range from our award-winning Nicotine Salts to premium Freebase Nicotine, to nicotine shots and nicotine-free E-Liquids. Our quality formulas and flavours continue to win awards across the vaping industry and with our white label manufacture, you get access to our existing, premium combinations. And even better, you can request these as 0mg to create shortfills or your own zero-nicotine disposable devices.

Or speak with us about our OEM opportunities for creating a bespoke range of no-nicotine disposables. With full flexibility throughout the entire process, we can help you go from idea to shop floor. Contact us today to start on your next range.

Author Hannah Rubery Categories E-Liquid Posted on

Top Tips for Vape Retailers for 2023

With the vaping industry booming, retailers new and old will be looking to capitalise on the growing trends within the industry. It can be seen in the numerous vape shops that open on high streets, the major supermarkets accepting more vaping products to be openly placed on shelves in the UK, and many places around the world.

It's important now more than ever that vape retailers work hard to ensure quality products are available to the UK public. Especially with the recent crackdowns on vape stores that have uncovered thousands of pounds of illicit stock or selling to those who are underage, these issues have the potential to negatively impact the vaping industry as we know it.

Most of these tips you may already know but it can be rewarding to simply go back to the basics and start from there. These vital cornerstones make up the basic principles of creating a successful vape retail environment.

General Tips for Retail

Visibility in your store and out

Obviously one of the first things you want to do is to coax potential customers from the street into your store. Great ways of doing this is through visual, eye-catching displays in windows, a window vinyl showcasing your top products/in-demand products and of course signage of your brands.

Inside your store, you should create just as much visual interest as the outside. It can take a little effort but creating a customer journey through your store with products and promotional materials, helps a potential customer to visualise their point and where could be next – especially important when targeting smokers looking to quit cigarettes. Using modular units will benefit this style as they allow you to change up the design when necessary.

Having brand sections help the customer browsing experience, especially for those who may already prefer a certain brand. Even within these brand sections, some brands may have their own customer journey within them (moving from disposables to Nic Salts to shortfills, or potentially high nic strength to low nic strength etc). Lacing these areas with promotional content or informational content like posters/leaflets, help to provide a customer with clearer ideas about their purchase.

Point of Salt materials (POS)

Using POS throughout your store helps to maximise brand impact and provide vital product information in a clear, concise way. These could be product posters, window powers, counter mats, window vinyl stickers, box displays and more. POS materials are great for influencing a customer's decision to choose a specific brand or product, even simply for curiosity’s sake.

Availability

It can seem obvious but having great product availability is an easy way to help increase customer retention. If a customer cannot find the product, they are looking for there is always a good chance they will go elsewhere. Ensuring your product range has good stock levels, especially during peak times, is crucial. These peak times tend to be around vaping promotions such as VApril and Stoptober, plus New Year as smokers begin to make New Year resolutions for quitting.

By making sure you cater for all vapers you are increasing your potential customer range. From first-timers to vaping veterans, having at least the basics for each type of vaper is beneficial. For example, you should aim to stock at least one open system device with refillable tanks, a closed system device which uses pods, and a choice of Freebase and Nicotine Salt E-Liquids.

Product Knowledge

There’s a good chance that a customer may ask questions about your vaping products or vaping in general. Knowing the answer or being able to point them in the right direction can be crucial for consumers.

Investing in staff training so that your employees have at least a basic understanding of vaping and the products you stock, will help to also provide unique selling points to customers. By being able to answer these questions you help to build customer relations and customer retention.

Stocking disposable devices – yes or no?

With the recent goings-on in the vaping industry, there are some who are starting to question whether it is worth stocking disposable vapes. And the answer isn’t nearly as clear-cut as we’d like.

For one, disposable vapes are booming and there’s no question about it. They offer a convenient and often cheap way for vapers to get their nicotine hit while on the go – no mess, no kits, and no need to charge or refill. This makes them ideal for newcomers to vaping with little to no knowledge of vaping.

They are also great as an introduction to a brand, with many brands nowadays offering a disposable device as part of their range. Disposables allow consumers to essentially test a brand or flavour before deciding on their go-to.

However, the boom in disposable devices has also risen at the same time as the boom in underage vaping. There is some evidence to suggest that most of these are using disposable devices and some of these under-age users have never smoked either. So perhaps disposables need to be treated with more care than first thought. Perhaps disposables should be treated more like ‘taster’ products for brands, than true vaping devices?

Being a responsible retailer

The key to this is by being a responsible retailer. The news of late has been riddled with recent busts of vape stores or off-licence stores that are stocking illicit and illegal vape products or selling to those under age. This is not to say that all retailers are guilty, in fact, there are many, if not, more stores that are responsible retailers. Unfortunately, the few that do break the mould end up tarnishing the rest.

It is important that as a retailer you ensure that your products are TPD compliant (in the UK, or compliant with your country’s regulations), and that you source them from reputable companies. Not only are products that are not TPD-compliant classed as unsafe due to higher nicotine strengths or inclusion of banned ingredients, but fake products are potentially even more harmful.

Making sure you are one of those reputable retailers will allow you to enjoy a profitable vape retail experience and create an environment for your customers where they feel they can get the products and services they need. Create an experience for your customers they cannot find anywhere else, and they won’t look anywhere else.

Author Hannah Rubery Categories E-Liquid, Xyfil Updates Posted on

Vaping Confirmed At Least 95% Less Harmful Than Smoking

Back in 2015, it was first announced by Public Health England that their review on vaping proved it to be 95% less harmful than smoking. Since then, there have been countless studies and claims that have tried to undermine these findings. And now the Office of Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) has released an evidence review.

Overall conclusions from Nicotine Vaping in England 2022 update

One key finding that was noted in the review, was the level of toxicant exposure in biomarkers. The evidence suggested significantly lower exposure to harmful substances from vaping compared to smoking, as shown by biomarkers associated with the risk of cancer, and respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.

Not only this but short-term second-hand exposure showed no significant increase of toxicant biomarkers among those who did not smoke/vape.

Thereby the findings confirmed that in the short and medium term, vaping poses a small fraction of the risks of smoking, but is not completely risk-free, particularly for those who have never smoked.

An important note raised in the review was a call for standardisation and consistent methodologies for future studies. Currently, many studies focus on vapers who are ex-smokers, and evidence can be interpreted without considering these implications.

Youth vaping – an issue for all involved

The review also makes a note of the prevalence of youth vaping in England. A 2022 survey from ASH-Youth on 11-18 year olds, noted that the smoking prevalence had grown from 4.1% in 2021 to 6%, a change from 6.7% in 2020.

Vaping prevalence in youth was recorded at 4% in 2021 and has since doubled to 8.6% in 2022. This included occasional and regular vaping. Importantly, the majority of young people who have never smoked also reported not vaping (98.3%).

Although the numbers are still low in comparison to other countries that have noted issues with underage vaping like the US, it is a creeping number that we should be aware of. There is much work to be done by the government, retailers and brand owners to ensure that vaping products remain out of young people’s hands.

What the vapers want

It should come as no surprise that the review noted an increase in the disposable device uses with 15.2% using them in 2022 compared to 2.2% in 2021. Despite this, tank-type vape products remained the most commonly used for those looking to stop smoking.

Flavours remained the same preference as in previous years with fruit flavours ranking the highest, followed by mint and menthol. The review did also note that there is limited evidence that some flavours have the potential to alter cellular responses (from animal and cell studies, not tested in humans), but less than what is seen with exposure to tobacco smoke.

It was also noted in the review that vaping products typically provided lower nicotine levels than that of smoking. Perhaps this may raise discussions on the topic of increasing the nicotine strength cap in the UK (which currently stands at 20mg).

The importance of knowledge and perception

The review stated that there is a strong need for inaccurate perceptions of vaping to be addressed. This is due to only 34% of adults in 2021 accurately believed vaping is less harmful than smoking. Similarly, only 11% of adults who smoked, knew that none or a small amount of the risk of smoking, was attributed to nicotine.

Clearly, there needs to be more work in raising perceptions and communicating the accuracy of information about the relative harms of vaping.

In conclusion, this new update from the government is a welcome addition to the vaping industry’s arsenal. There are still many arguments to be had with those who wish to be rid of vaping products, but this review only continues to solidify the evidence that vaping is less harmful than smoking.

Keep in the loop with Xyfil and the latest news in the vaping industry by watching out Info Hub.

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