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JTI RESEARCH: £9.3 BILLION LOST TO ILLEGAL TOBACCO, BUT LOCAL COUNCILS REFUSE TO ACT

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  • At least 9 councils nationwide conducted 0 investigations and had 0 prosecutions for illegal or counterfeit tobacco from 2018 to 2022.
  • Over this five-year period, Rochdale, Havering, and Kingston upon Thames were amongst the councils refusing to act.
  • Some councils, such as Hull, carried out over 249 investigations in the same time period, resulting in 53 criminal prosecutions.
  • HMRC estimate that since 2018, £9.3 billion in tax revenue1 has been lost due to illegal tobacco to cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco.

LONDON, Nov. 21, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — New research published today has found that at least 9 local authorities nationwide did not start a single investigation into the sale of illegal or counterfeit tobacco products from 2018 to 2022. The 9 authorities were: Calderdale, East Dunbartonshire, Isle of Anglesey County Council, Rochdale, Havering, Lambeth, City of London, Kingston upon Thames, and York.

Other councils, such as Hull, have taken robust action to tackle the issue, with 249 investigations and 53 prosecutions, more than any other council. Middlesbrough were also relatively active in this area, with 416 investigations, and 15 prosecutions.

Freedom of Information requests sent to 96 councils across England and Wales, show significant variation between the approaches taken by local councils. Councils in London (Kingston), Manchester (Rochdale), Wales (Isle of Anglesey County Council), and Scotland (East Dunbartonshire) were amongst those taking no action.

A lack of action by these councils will undoubtedly lead to increased sales of illegal tobacco, which is often linked to organised crime, a blight on local communities and contributing to the large tobacco tax gap. This gap, as estimated by HMRC, is the difference between the amount of tax that should, in theory, be paid to HMRC, and what is actually paid. Since 2018, £9.3 billion in tax revenue has been lost in this way. In 2021-22, alone, the tax gap was £2.2 billion.

According to the Police Federation, £2.2 billion could pay for more than 77,000 new police officers.2

Freedom of Information Requests were sent to a sample of 96 councils, asking them for the data below.

Commenting on the data, Sarah Connor, Communications Director at JTI UK, said:

“Some councils’ poor enforcement of existing laws raises doubts about their ability and capacity to enforce a more complex generational ban. Illegal tobacco is already a significant issue, and the generational ban has the potential to worsen this, by driving adult smokers to buy cigarettes from organised gangs.”

Top performers

Local Authority

 

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Location

 

 

The number of investigations the Council has initiated into the sale of illegal or counterfeit tobacco products (2018-2022)

The number of successful prosecutions the council has secured regarding the sale of illegal or counterfeit tobacco products (2018-2022)

Middlesbrough Council

Teesside

416

15

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Newham

London Borough

256

0

Hull

 

Yorkshire and Humber region

249

53

Newport City Council

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Wales

173

7

Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council

Wales

 

172

18

Stockport

Manchester

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172

2

Manchester

Manchester

161

18

Waltham Forest

London Borough

156

6

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Doncaster

 

Yorkshire and Humber region

93

27

Bottom of the league

Local Authority

Location

The number of investigations the Council has initiated into the sale of illegal or counterfeit tobacco products (2018-2022)

The number of successful prosecutions the council has secured regarding the sale of illegal or counterfeit tobacco products (2018-2022)

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Calderdale

 

Yorkshire and Humber region

0

0

East Dunbartonshire

Scotland

0

0

Isle of Anglesey County Council

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Wales

 

0

0

Rochdale

Manchester

0

0

Havering

London Borough

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0

0

Lambeth

London Borough

0

0

City of London

London Borough

0

0

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Kingston upon Thames

London Borough

 

0

0

York

 

Yorkshire and Humber region

0

0

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For further information, please contact:
Sarah Connor
[email protected]

Full source data is available upon request.

1 This figure is the sum of HMRC’s tobacco duty gap, which includes cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco, for the last five years. These figures are available here: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/measuring-tax-gaps/3-tax-gaps-excise-including-alcohol-tobacco-and-oils#tobacco
2 A newly appointed constable, after 01/09/23 would earn £28,551. (https://www.polfed.org/resources/pay-scales/constable-pay-scales/)

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Fintech PR

EQT to acquire Indostar Home Finance, an Indian affordable housing finance company, for INR 17.5 billion (USD 210 million) and invest INR 5 billion to support further growth

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STOCKHOLM, Sept. 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — 

  • Indostar Home Finance is a fast-growing affordable housing finance company with INR 24 billion (USD 286 million) in assets under management, that has supported over 39,000 low income homeowners and small businesses
  • India’s INR 30 trillion housing finance market presents a multi-decade growth story driven by strong government support, rising affordability and urbanization
  • EQT will invest INR 5 billion in primary capital to support Indostar Home’s continued growth, including by broadening its footprint across India and investing in digital capabilities

EQT is pleased to announce that the BPEA Mid-Market Growth Partnership (or “the MMG fund”) has agreed to acquire a 100% stake in Indostar Home Finance (or “the Company”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Indostar Capital Finance Limited, for INR 17.5 billion (USD 210 million).

Founded in 2017, Indostar Home Finance provides affordable mortgages to retail customers in tier 2 to tier 4 cities in India and has supported over 39,000 low income homeowners and small businesses. The Company has rapidly scaled to more than INR 24 billion in assets under management, achieving a 32 percent compounded annual growth in the last three years. Indostar Home Finance has a network of more than 130 branches spread across nine states and employs over 1,000 people.

The Indian housing finance market currently stands at more than INR 30 trillion, according to the CRISIL. The segment has recorded strong growth driven by government support, rising affordability, and urbanization. However, there remains a significant shortage of housing in the country, with India’s mortgage to GDP ratio at 12.3% compared to more than 60% for developed countries like the USA and UK.

The MMG fund will invest INR 5 billion of primary capital in Indostar Home Finance to support its next phase of growth. EQT aims to expand the Company’s geographic footprint and accelerate its digital transformation journey by leveraging EQT’s in-house digitalization expertise, network of seasoned industry advisors, and expertise in go-to-market strategies.

Ashish Agrawal, Partner in the EQT Private Capital Asia advisory team, said: “Retail lending is a key investment theme for EQT within financial services in India. Building on our investment in the education finance sector through HDFC Credila last year, we are thrilled to welcome Indostar Home Finance to our portfolio. India’s affordable housing finance sector represents a long-term growth opportunity supported by secular demand drivers, favorable government policies and resilient asset quality across economic cycles”

Hemant Sharma, Managing Director in the EQT Private Capital Asia advisory team, said: “Indostar Home Finance has established itself as a leading player in this segment and is well-positioned for continued growth. We are impressed by its market-leading position in South India and strong underwriting capabilities. We see significant potential to expand Indostar’s presence across India and drive its digital transformation. EQT looks forward to supporting the company in its next phase of growth.”

Mr. Shreejit Menon, CEO of Indostar Home Finance, said: “This transaction marks a key milestone for Indostar Home Finance. We are excited to embark on this new journey with EQT, who shares our vision and whose partnership will significantly help advance our mission of delivering affordable housing finance solutions across India. With EQT’s support and global expertise, we are well-positioned for accelerated growth and success.”

The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals.

Contact
EQT Press Office, [email protected] 

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

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WorldSkills Lyon 2024: Talented Winners, Long-lasting Legacy

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LYON, France, Sept. 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — After an intense week of competition, the 47th WorldSkills Competition has officially wrapped up, marking the end of a thrilling journey for 1,400 young professionals from around the globe. For four days, participants representing nearly 70 countries and regions competed fiercely in 59 diverse skill areas, transforming Lyon’s Eurexpo into a vibrant hub of craftsmanship and international talent.

From day one, the atmosphere was charged with energy as competitors showcased their expertise in sectors ranging from Manufacturing and Engineering to Fashion, Digital Technology, and Healthcare. The level of dedication and precision demonstrated throughout the week was a testament to the profound commitment these young professionals have to their trades, as well as their determination to showcase their nation’s worth on the global stage.

Last night, the closing ceremony of WorldSkills Lyon 2024, held at Groupama Stadium, brought the event to an emotional close with the announcement of medalists in each skill category. Four medals were awarded in each skill: Gold Medal, Silver Medal, Bronze Medal, and the Medallion for Excellence. This ceremony underscored the core belief of the WorldSkills movement: excellence is found in diversity – diversity of profiles, backgrounds, expertise, and techniques.

The list of medalists is now available. Visit https://worldskills.org/what/competitions/worldskills-lyon-2024/#results to discover the winners!

What’s next?

The impact of WorldSkills Lyon 2024 extends far beyond the event itself. As the competition unfolded, and millions of people followed it in person or through media, WorldSkills Lyon 2024 spotlighted the crucial role of vocational education in today’s world and in shaping our shared future. By celebrating excellence, the competition highlighted the incredible ability of youth to drive the change our world needs through their energy and dedication. The legacy of this event lies in every vocation it has sparked and every future career it has inspired. This 47th edition has once again shown the world that where there is skill, there is a way.

Media Contacts: 
Alice Nahon
PR Officer
[email protected] 

Anne-Laure TRONC
Press Relation Manager
[email protected] 

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Touchless Vending Market Size to Grow USD 42330 Million by 2030 at a CAGR of 13.3% | Valuates Reports

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BANGALORE, India, Sept. 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Touchless Vending Market is Segmented by Type (Food and Beverage Vending Machines, Mask Vending Machine, Toy Vending Machine), by Application (Shopping Mall, Street, Hospital, Traffic Station): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2024-2030.

The Global Touchless Vending Market was valued at USD 19800 Million in 2023 and is anticipated to reach USD 42330 Million by 2030, witnessing a CAGR of 13.3% during the forecast period 2024-2030.

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Major Factors Driving the Growth of Touchless Vending Market:

The touchless vending machines market is seeing rapid growth, driven by rising demand for hygienic, contactless solutions post-pandemic, especially in public places such as shopping malls, traffic stations, and hospitals. The ability to offer convenience and reduce human interaction has made these machines popular in food and beverage, personal protective equipment (PPE), and even toy vending. Technological advancements in contactless payment systems and smart inventory management further boost adoption. However, high initial investment costs may slow market growth, especially in developing regions.

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TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF THE GLOBAL TOUCHLESS VENDING MARKET:

Food and beverage vending machines are highly popular in locations such as hospitals, shopping malls, and traffic stations, where consumers demand quick, hygienic access to snacks and drinks. These machines, equipped with touchless payment systems, Employee Background Check Software Market have seen increased adoption due to the convenience and enhanced hygiene they offer. In addition to traditional snacks and drinks, there is a growing trend toward healthier, premium food options in these vending machines, catering to health-conscious consumers, which further drives demand in this segment.

In shopping malls, vending machines are increasingly being used to provide convenience to shoppers, offering products ranging from snacks to toys and hygiene products. Touchless vending machines are particularly appealing due to their ability to cater to consumers who are looking for quick, contactless purchasing options while shopping. The presence of vending machines in high-traffic areas within malls ensures steady usage, and as malls look to enhance customer experiences, more advanced, interactive vending solutions are likely to be adopted.

Mask vending machines gained significant traction during the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to be relevant in hospitals, airports, and other high-traffic areas. These machines offer a convenient, touchless way for people to access face masks and personal protective equipment. While demand for masks has decreased slightly post-pandemic, the continued emphasis on public health and hygiene in high-risk locations ensures that these machines maintain a stable presence. Additionally, mask vending machines are being repurposed for other hygiene products, extending their utility.

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Toy vending machines are commonly seen in shopping malls and entertainment centers, offering children and families a fun, convenient way to purchase toys. These machines are especially popular in high-traffic areas such as malls and family-friendly environments, where they offer an added entertainment element. Recent trends show a shift toward integrating digital elements, such as mobile apps and touchless payment options, into toy vending machines, enhancing the user experience and making these machines more interactive and appealing to younger audiences.

In hospitals, vending machines play a crucial role in providing essential items like snacks, beverages, and personal protective equipment (PPE), including masks. Touchless vending machines, in particular, have become more popular in healthcare environments due to their ability to reduce physical contact, thereby minimizing the risk of disease transmission. These machines are strategically placed in high-traffic areas, such as waiting rooms and cafeterias, ensuring that both staff and visitors have easy access to essential items without leaving the hospital premises.

Vending machines in traffic stations, including airports, bus terminals, and train stations, are seeing increased demand as more travelers seek convenient, contactless solutions for snacks and beverages during transit. Touchless vending machines are particularly favored in these locations due to their ability to offer quick, hygienic services to large numbers of travelers. With the growing number of people using public transportation, vending machines equipped with smart technology and contactless payment options are expected to become a staple in these locations.

Touchless vending machines are also becoming a common sight on streets and in other public spaces, providing convenience for passersby. These machines offer quick access to a variety of products, including food, beverages, and even hygiene items, such as masks and sanitizers. The convenience of contactless payment and minimal human interaction aligns well with the growing consumer preference for self-service, especially in outdoor environments. The installation of vending machines in streets and public spaces is expected to continue rising, driven by urbanization and consumer demand for 24/7 access to essential goods.

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TOUCHLESS VENDING MARKET SHARE

The Asia-Pacific region dominates the touchless vending machines market, driven by the high adoption rate of vending machines in countries like Japan and China, particularly in public spaces such as traffic stations and shopping malls. North America and Europe also show strong demand, especially for food and beverage vending machines in hospitals and other high-traffic areas. The Middle East and Africa are emerging markets, with increasing investments in smart city infrastructure and public health initiatives that support the adoption of touchless vending machines.

Key Companies:

  • Digital Media Vending International LLC
  • AusVendGroup
  • AMS Group, Inc.
  • LuxDisinfect
  • Aeguana
  • Vendekin

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DISCOVER MORE INSIGHTS: EXPLORE SIMILAR REPORTS!

–  Vending Machine Market

–  Touchless Button Market

–  Contactless Touch Technology market was valued at USD 986.4 Million in 2023 and is anticipated to reach USD 1422.1 Million by 2030, witnessing a CAGR of 5.4% during the forecast period 2024-2030.

–  AI-Powered Checkout market was valued at USD 217 Million in 2023 and is anticipated to reach USD 681.6 Million by 2030, witnessing a CAGR of 17.5% during the forecast period 2024-2030.

–  Hospital Vending Machine Market

–  Capsule-Toy Vending Machines market is projected to grow from USD 351 Million in 2024 to USD 635.8 Million by 2030, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10.4% during the forecast period.

–  The global Digital Process Automation market is projected to grow from USD 7215.7 Million in 2024 to USD 11770 Million by 2030, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.5% during the forecast period.

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To achieve a consistent view of the market, data is gathered from various primary and secondary sources, at each step, data triangulation methodologies are applied to reduce deviance and find a consistent view of the market. Each sample we share contains a detailed research methodology employed to generate the report. Please also reach our sales team to get the complete list of our data sources.

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