Plenty of tobacco retailers in New York that I visited last week had signs up in their retail shops making it clear about illegal tobacco and that their business only deals in legitimate tobacco. Displaying signs like this is a good way to demonstrate authority in this contentious area.
This sign is good as it shows consumers hot to spot illegal tobacco products – it shows the tax stamp. Helping shoppers spot illegal product is the first step in any good education campaign. It is unfortunate the sign looks so disheveled. I’d rather it be pristine and in a frame, showing with pride.
Illegal tobacco is a big issue around the world and retailers are on the front line of this battle. Using space in-store to educate shoppers is an important role for retailers to play.