Following complaints from the public and after a joint investigation by Trading Standards, HM Revenue and Customs and Bedfordshire Police, Tavistock Street Mini Mart has been ordered to close, following repeated breaches relating to the sale of illegal tobacco and vape products.
The stop, located at 33 Tavistock Street, was served with a three-month closure order on Wednesday, 17 September by Bedford Borough Council Trading Standards Officers, and the closure order was granted by a district judge at Luton Magistrates’ Court the following day.
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 enforcement formed part of Operation CeCe, a National Trading Standards initiative in partnership with HMRC, targeting the illegal tobacco trade nationwide.
The investigation was led by Bedford Borough Council Trading Standards Officers, supported by HMRC and Bedfordshire Police. These investigations uncovered persistent criminal activity despite repeated advice and warnings issued to the business.
“Safeguarding milestone”
Test purchases revealed the ongoing sale of illegal tobacco and vape products.
On 14 August 2025, a visit by officers 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 also revealed increasingly sophisticated concealment methods, including a hidden compartment within the shop counter, which was identified by specialist tobacco detection dogs.
Bedford Borough Council says the closure order marks a significant milestone in safeguarding the community from the harms associated with illegal tobacco and vape products.
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.”
The council says it remains dedicated to combating the sale of illegal tobacco and vape products and reiterates that 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.
