Two adjacent streets in the Manchester suburb of Cheetham Hill are now home to 54 vape businesses, transforming the area into what is described as the "vape capital of Europe." This shift occurred after a four-year police operation, Operation Vulcan, successfully targeted criminal gangs, counterfeit goods operations, drug dealing, and human trafficking. The crackdown, which began in autumn 2022, led to the closure of 216 counterfeit stores and the seizure of significant amounts of cash, counterfeit goods, drugs, and illicit vapes.
Greater Manchester Police reported a 50% reduction in violent crime and public order offenses in the area as a direct result of Operation Vulcan. However, the closure of numerous shops also resulted in a 30% dip in customer footfall, leaving a void that has been rapidly filled by vape wholesalers. Businesses on Harris Street and Overbridge Road now offer a vast array of vape products, from pre-filled pods to refillable devices and thousands of e-juice flavors.
Retailers in Cheetham Hill state that customers travel from across the UK and even from Scotland to purchase vapes in bulk. One manager described the area as the largest vape market in Europe. While the area is now reportedly safer with the departure of crime gangs and drug dealers, some locals express frustration with the proliferation of vape shops and the type of clientele they attract. Residents have noted an increase in people arriving in vans to buy vapes, and a desire for a more diverse range of businesses.
A significant aspect of the vape market in Cheetham Hill is the reported influence of Chinese manufacturers. Estimates suggest that up to 80% of the world's vapes are produced in China, with around 90% of those sold in the UK originating from the country. Some retailers noted visits from representatives of Chinese companies looking to sell their products, and that Chinese vape companies sometimes subsidize advertising on shop fronts, effectively lowering rent costs for businesses. Concerns have also been raised nationally about potential data harvesting risks associated with internet-connected "smart vapes" manufactured in China.
Local officials acknowledge the success of Operation Vulcan in combating crime but have faced criticism regarding a lack of planning for post-crackdown urban renewal. While some investment has been made in improving public spaces, critics argue it is insufficient. The relaxed planning rules have also been cited as a factor allowing for the unchecked rise of vape shops, with authorities having less power to reject such businesses. Despite the challenges, retailers and some residents acknowledge the improved safety compared to the era of rampant organized crime and illicit trade.