Shop caught selling illegal vapes and cigarettes in Lichfield to remain closed for three months
A city centre shop found to be selling illegal cigarettes and vapes will remain closed for another three months following action by Lichfield District Council and Staffordshire County Council.
On 12 November 2025, Euro Mini Market on St John Street, Lichfield was raided by Lichfield District Council’s Environmental Health officers in a joint operation with Staffordshire County Council’s Trading Standards officers and Staffordshire Police.
They seized a large quantity of vapes, cigarettes and tobacco including four suitcases full that were hidden in an outbuilding and found using the District Council’s drone.
The District Council’s application for a Closure Order for Euro Mini Market in Lichfield was heard by Magistrates sitting at Newcastle Under Lyme Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 27 November 2025, after being adjourned on 14 November.The court issued a Closure Order for a 3 month period, the maximum allowed.
Councillor Richard Cox, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Community and Public Protection, said: “I am very pleased that magistrates have backed the work of our officers, Trading Standards and the police by ordering the closure of the Euro Mini Market for a further three months. These joint operations will continue to target, and stop, any criminals who sell these illegal and dangerous products in Lichfield District.
“It is also the responsibility of property owners to be vigilant and conduct necessary checks on the suitability of their tenants.”
Councillor Anthony Screen, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Resilience at Staffordshire County Council, said: “The successful outcome of this joint operation with Officers of Lichfield District Council sends out a clear message that we do not tolerate crime on our high streets and the sale of illegal tobacco and vapes in our communities.
“By working in partnership we have been able to close a business that has been flouting the law.
“These products not only undermine legitimate businesses but pose serious health risks, especially to young people.
“The sale of illicit tobacco and vapes is not a victimless crime. It fuels organised criminal networks and undermines the safety of our streets.”
Chief Inspector Stuart Coleman, of the Lichfield local policing team, said: “Together with our partners, we work very hard to tackle those selling such products in Staffordshire. While many businesses across the county are operating within the law, we have seen that there are a few who think they can get away with it - as we have seen in this case.”
People can report the sale of illegal, dangerous or counterfeit goods on the Trading Standards Report It webpage Trading Standards Report It - Staffordshire County Council or by calling the confidential helpline on 01785 330356.
