The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently proposed regulations to drastically reduce the nicotine content of cigarettes and certain combustible tobacco products. The move has sparked mixed reactions from the tobacco industry and retailers, including convenience stores.
Reactions from local retailers
Lonnie McQuirter, director of operations at 36 Lyn Refuel Station in Minneapolis, expressed optimism that the convenience store industry will be resilient in the face of these new regulations. He noted that these retailers have a history of innovating and evolving to meet changing regulations and consumer needs. McQuirter sees this proposal as an opportunity to strengthen retailers’ role as trusted partners in promoting public health and serving communities responsibly. He also noted that the industry has already implemented effective solutions, such as mandatory age verification and comprehensive employee training, which have led to compliance rates exceeding 90% in many states.
Position of tobacco manufacturers
On the manufacturers’ side, Altria, based in Richmond, Virginia, criticized the FDA’s proposal as unnecessary, lacking scientific basis and likely to fuel illicit markets for unregulated products. The company instead advocates for authorizing smokeless products, effectively regulating the market by eliminating illegal disposable vaping products, and encouraging adult smokers to switch to smokeless alternatives.
Juul Labs Inc., based in Washington, D.C., pointed to the FDA’s 2017 comprehensive plan, which aimed to reduce U.S. smoking rates and premature deaths associated with combustible cigarettes. The plan had three main pillars: fostering a market for authorized and legal smokeless nicotine products, such as e-cigarettes, as an alternative for smokers looking to quit cigarettes; addressing issues related to the appeal and accessibility of tobacco products to youth; and implementing product standards to make cigarettes less addictive.
Future prospects
The FDA's proposal is currently open for public comment through September 15. The agency will review this feedback before taking further action. If adopted, this rule could significantly transform the landscape of the tobacco industry, particularly for convenience retailers who will need to adapt to these changes.
