Convenience stores cracking down on illegal tobacco

The Atlantic Convenience Stores Association has announced a partnership with Crime Stoppers to help fight illegal tobacco sales in the province.

The association will fund Crime Stoppers’ anti-illegal tobacco advertising and tip rewards program. It will also fund and co-ordinate a public awareness campaign in convenience stores. Association president Mike Hammoud says the new Contraband Enforcement Unit is starting to make an impact, but there needs to be more public awareness and support. A study showed illegal tobacco could amount to 20% of the cigarette market in the province.