Shop shut down for the third time after 'selling illegal tobacco and vapes'

A Coventry shop has been ordered shut for a third time after Trading Standards investigators found it repeatedly selling illegal tobacco, cigarettes, and vapes. Tile Hill Mini Market on Station Avenue was closed following multiple visits that uncovered large amounts of illicit cigarettes, hand-rolling tobacco, and vapes, including products concealed in a rear storage area. The tobacco was counterfeit and duty had been evaded, with low prices suggesting unpaid duty and VAT. On July 15, Coventry Magistrates’ Court ordered the premises to remain closed until October, with potential fines or imprisonment for breaches. The case involved Coventry City Council, Trading Standards, and West Midlands Police, with costs awarded to the council and expected to be recovered from the business and landlord. The broader “Operation CeCe” initiative has removed millions of illegal items since 2021.