We are The VapeBar Guernsey and have been serving the people of Guernsey for more than 12 years.
As you are aware as of March 2026 the Vaping Products (Guernsey) Ordinance is coming into force. With the new regulations we will have to black out our windows, so nothing can be seen from within three metres from the outside, and we will no longer be able to allow under 18s on the premises. ‘Great!’ you may think.
But not allowing parents to enter the shop with their children will not only have a harsh impact on our family-friendly, family-run business, it will also ostracise parents who are wanting to quit smoking for the health of themselves and their children.
It feels incredibly unfair that the alcohol shop down the road is allowed a full window display while we, as a legitimate vape business, are being told we can’t. We’re a rent-paying, fully-compliant shop contributing to the local community, and we should have the same rights as any other retailers on the street. It doesn’t make sense that one business can showcase its products openly while another is restricted, especially when both are operating legally. All we’re asking for is equal treatment and the ability to run our business on a level playing field.
No under 18s on the premises:
It’s important to clarify that we fully support keeping vaping products out of the hands of anyone under 18, but banning parents from bringing their children in at all creates unnecessary barriers for responsible adults. Many parents simply don’t have the option to shop alone, and restricting them in this way limits their ability to make informed, safe purchases in person. Instead of improving safety, it risks pushing customers online where age verification is weaker and support is limited. Allowing supervised entry for parents with children isn’t about encouraging families into a vape shop – it’s about ensuring adults can shop responsibly without being forced into less regulated alternatives.
We follow the law strictly – no under-18s are allowed in our shop unless they’re with a parent, and that should be a parent’s decision to make, not something taken out of their hands. We have always adhered to a strict policy of asking for ID where a person may appear to be under the age of 21.
We’re not asking for special treatment.
We’re asking for equal treatment.
Jess and Tina Dorfner
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