Bedford Borough Council’s Trading Standards Officers have secured a three-month closure order for Tavistock Street Mini Market, located at 33 Tavistock Street, Bedford. This order follows repeated breaches relating to the sale of illegal tobacco and vape products.
A closure notice was served at the premises on Wednesday, 17 September 2025. Subsequently, a District Judge at Luton Magistrates' Court granted the closure order on Thursday, 18 September 2025. The order prohibits the premises from trading as a retail business during this period and restricts anyone from entering the shop without prior permission from the authorities. Breaching this order is a criminal offence, carrying the potential penalties of a fine and/or imprisonment for up to 51 weeks.
This action follows complaints from the public and a thorough investigation led by Bedford Borough Council Trading Standards Officers, supported by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) and Bedfordshire Police. These investigations uncovered persistent criminal activity despite repeated advice and warnings issued to the business.
Test purchases revealed the ongoing sale of illegal tobacco and vape products. Notably, a visit on 14 August 2025 resulted in the seizure of over 10,000 illegal cigarettes and approximately 100 illegal single-use vapes - products banned in the UK from 1 June 2025. In addition, two vehicles linked to the storage of these products were destroyed.
The investigation exposed increasingly sophisticated concealment methods, including a hidden compartment within the shop counter identified by specialist tobacco detection dogs.
The closure order marks a significant milestone in safeguarding the community from the harms associated with illegal tobacco and vape products. This enforcement formed part of Operation CeCe, a National Trading Standards initiative in partnership with HMRC, targeting the illegal tobacco trade nationwide.
Councillor Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Regulatory Services, said, “Illegal tobacco and vape sales threaten public health, damage legitimate businesses, and are frequently linked to wider criminal activities. Bedford Borough Council is fully committed to taking strong, decisive action to protect our community. This closure order clearly demonstrates our determination to maintain a safe and fair trading environment for everyone.”
Bedford Borough Council remains dedicated to combating the sale of illegal tobacco and vape products. This case highlights the vital role of community reporting and strong collaboration between local authorities and enforcement agencies.
Residents are encouraged to report any concerns about illegal tobacco or vape sales by emailing ehadmin@bedford.gov.uk.
For further advice and information for consumers and businesses, visit:
www.bedford.gov.uk/business/trading-standards