Bedford Borough Council’s Trading Standards team has successfully prosecuted Bedford Fruit and Vegetables Limited, 109 Midland Road, Bedford, for the illegal sale of a vape to a 15-year-old. The case was heard at Luton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 29 April 2025. The business owner and company director, Mr Farogh Sadeghi, pleaded guilty in person to the offence, which took place during a test purchase operation on 8 October 2024. The Court imposed a total penalty of approximately £4,200, including fines, victim surcharge, and costs.
This is the second time within a year that Bedford Fruit and Vegetables Limited has been prosecuted for selling vapes to children. In November 2024, the company was fined £3,621 after selling a vape to a 13-year-old in a previous test purchase operation. The total financial penalties for both offences now stand at around £7,800.
Councillor Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Regulatory Services, said, “The sale of vapes and other age-restricted products to children is illegal and poses significant health risks to our young people. Despite previous interventions and clear guidance, Bedford Fruit and Vegetables Limited has repeatedly failed in its legal responsibilities.
“This latest prosecution sends a strong message that we will not tolerate such behaviour in Bedford Borough. Our Trading Standards team will continue to take robust action to protect young residents, support legitimate businesses and ensure businesses comply with the law.”
Should there be any further underage sales of tobacco or tobacco-related products by Bedford Fruit and Vegetables Limited within two years of the first offence (April 2024), Trading Standards may apply for a Restricted Premises Order or Restricted Sales Order. Such orders can prohibit the sale of these products at the premises or by a named individual for up to 12 months.
Bedford Borough Council urges all retailers to prioritise staff training and implement robust procedures to prevent the sale of age-restricted products to minors.
Residents who have concerns about businesses selling age-restricted products to minors can report them to Bedford Borough Council's Trading Standards team by emailing ehadmin@bedford.gov.uk
By working together, we can ensure that businesses adhere to responsible practices and safeguard our children from potential harm.
Learn more about underage sales in Bedford Borough at www.bedford.gov.uk/business/trading-standards/underage-sales
Find further advice for consumers and businesses in Bedford Borough at www.bedford.gov.uk/business/trading-standards