UK vape retailer VPZ to expand manufacturing, open 40 stores in 2026

Key Takeaways

• VPZ has launched a multi-million-pound investment programme to expand output and tighten supply-chain controls.
• The company will add a fifth production line at its UK facility and plans to open 40 new stores nationwide in 2026.
• The expansion is expected to create hundreds of jobs across retail, management, and logistics/warehousing.
• VPZ will set up a bonded warehouse at its Edinburgh headquarters to prepare for a vaping tax and support efforts to curb illicit products.

2Firsts, Feb 2, 2026

According to Convenience Store, UK vape retailer VPZ said on Feb 2 it had launched a “multi-million-pound” investment plan aimed at expanding domestic manufacturing capacity, strengthening supply-chain controls and creating hundreds of jobs.

The programme includes adding a fifth production line at VPZ’s UK production site, while the company plans to open 40 new stores across the UK in 2026.

VPZ said the new roles will span frontline retail, store leadership, logistics and warehousing, marketing and administrative functions.

The report also said VPZ plans to establish a bonded warehouse at its Edinburgh headquarters, a system widely used in duty-free-related industries. VPZ said the facility would help support enforcement and, amid rising concern over the illicit vape market, further distinguish compliant retailers from illegal operators.

Jamie Strachan, VPZ’s operations director, said the investment is intended to boost supply-chain resilience and flexibility ahead of a planned “vaping tax” in 2026. He said strengthening infrastructure in advance would allow the business to manage tax requirements more efficiently, maintain continuity of supply and reduce the impact on the retail network and consumers.

UK Trading Standards and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) have recently reported record seizures of illegal and non-compliant vapes, warning that such products undermine public health protections, tax revenues and the operating environment for legitimate businesses.

Cover image source: Convenience Store