The issue of nicotine marketing targeting young people has become a focal point in Scotland and the UK. National charities ASH Scotland and Asthma + Lung UK Scotland have joined forces to call for legislative action to end the advertising of addictive and health-harming nicotine products aimed at children. Their appeal unveils the alarming tactics of the nicotine industry and highlights a need to prioritise public health over profit.

On 29 May 2025, Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) voted to support the UK Government’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill. This decision marks what Cancer Research UK has called a “historic opportunity” to tighten regulations on tobacco and vaping products and protect younger generations from preventable harm.

The Fight Against Nicotine Ads

The Scottish Parliament’s Health, Social Care and Sport Committee specifically recommended this new motion to restrict the marketing of addictive nicotine products like vapes and pouches. ASH Scotland has also endorsed the World Health Organization’s ongoing “Unmasking the Appeal” campaign. These steps reflect a wider agenda to tackle how nicotine ads lure children. Strategies such as flashy packaging, sweet flavours, and social media influencers are key tactics under scrutiny.

Sheila Duffy, Chief Executive of ASH Scotland, captured the urgency in her statement:

“In supporting WHO’s 2025 World No Tobacco Day campaign in Scotland, we are speaking out against the predatory tobacco and nicotine industry’s marketing tactics… We strongly urge MSPs to pass the Bill’s motion and reject all destructive interference from the tobacco industry.”

86 percent of Scots Say Enough is Enough

A recent survey by ASH Scotland and Asthma + Lung UK Scotland reveals that 86% of residents in Scotland are concerned about nicotine marketing aimed at the younger population. These findings draw national attention to the exploitative tactics of the tobacco industry. Joseph Carter, Head of Asthma + Lung UK Scotland, echoed these concerns, warning of the dangers of turning children into vaping consumers.

“The high rates of children and young people vaping in Scotland are concerning. It is vitally important that the government takes action to prevent the vaping industry from marketing and promoting their products towards children,” Carter stated.

Nicotine Marketing and Its Impact on Public Health

Nicotine ads have sparked controversy for many years. Countless reports reveal how they manipulate strategies to attract potential users, particularly teenagers. They offer flavors that mimic popular sweets. They also design sleek, modern packaging. These products easily draw in kids and teens, despite the health risks they pose.

Organisations like ASH Scotland argue that legal limits will restrict the visibility of nicotine products, reducing their appeal to impressionable demographics. Cancer Research UK has also joined this collective voice. Debbie King, Senior Public Affairs Manager of Cancer Research UK in Scotland, explained the necessity of action, stating, “Smoking rates decline with government intervention. We want to turn the tide against addiction.”

The World No Tobacco Day Campaign

Although World No Tobacco Day has passed, the campaign continues driving global efforts to expose unethical industry tactics. This year’s theme, “Unmasking the Appeal,” aims to educate the public about how cultural glamorisation of nicotine ultimately leads to addictions with devastating effects.

Stronger Measures for Scotland’s Children

With cross-party support from MSPs this month, momentum is building across Scotland for stricter tobacco and vaping product laws. Advocates believe that by introducing measures to counter heavily funded nicotine ads, the Scottish Government can protect children from harmful exposure and ensure a healthier future.

This crucial legislation holds the promise of reducing nicotine’s grip on Scotland. It demonstrates a clear message that the country will not bow to profit-driven industries at the cost of public health.

Source: Health and Care