Call for tobacco displays to be banned

Cigarette displays are advertising to our children

Northland health promoters have backed calls by national anti-smoking groups for tobacco products to be kept out of sight in all retail outlets.

Northland District Health Board’s Smokefree Coordinator, Bridget Rowse, and Cancer Society Northland Health Promoter, Sally McGunnigle-Trail, this week supported the stance taken by the Cancer Society and anti-smoking group ASH.

“Tobacco displays in retail outlets are a prominent and important marketing tool used to entice new smokers,” said Bridget Rowse. “Research shows that current smokers are brand-loyal, so we believe these displays are positioned to attract new smokers. It is the last form of tobacco advertising left for tobacco companies.”

“Cigarette displays undermine health messages and make smoking look normal and harmless to children, when in fact most people don’t smoke and cigarettes are highly addictive and carcinogenic,” said Sally McGunnigle-Trail.

Prime Minister Helen Clark has said she would "love to see" a ban on displays of cigarettes and tobacco in shops. In a recent survey a clear majority of New Zealanders (66%) supported a complete ban on the display of cigarettes and tobacco products in all retail shops. This was particularly so for non-smokers, where support is at 71%.

Wendy Antrobus, Health Protection Officer for the DHB, said some tobacco retailers in Northland are already selling their cigarettes from under the counter, or currently close the door on their tobacco display. Other countries have banned retail displays of tobacco, and a ban on retail displays would simplify compliance with legislation.

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For further information contact:
Bridget Rowse, Smokefree Coordinator
Phone (09) 430 4101 ext 7908
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