Expert Insights: Marian Ferrer on the UK Vape Market

To break it all down, we spoke with Marian Ferrer, Business Unit Manager for Vape at Haypp Group. 

With her extensive industry experience, she sheds light on the impact of the ban, the best alternatives, and the future of vaping in the UK.

Marian: The ban will force disposable users to find alternatives and rethink their choices. 

However, based on our recent customer survey, most will opt for the alternative that feels the least different to their current vaping experience. 

That means prefilled pod kits, as they offer a similar experience—same design, familiar feel, but rechargeable.

Suppliers are already responding. 

Brands like Elf Bar and Lost Mary are launching pod kits that make reusable vapes and pod kits that are almost identical to disposables. 

Devices like the Elf Bar 600 Pod Kit and Lost Mary BM 600 Pod Kit are essentially the same models as their disposable counterparts, just with a rechargeable battery and replaceable pods.

Marian: Yes, Pre-filled pod kits are already a cheaper option in the long run. 

It’s true that the upfront cost of a pod kit is higher than a single disposable, but after that, the cost of pod refills is much lower than continuously buying disposables.

For context, a pack of two prefilled pods costs roughly the same as one disposable vape. 

Since each pod lasts as long as a disposable, the cost difference is immediate after the first purchase.

Additionally, as the ban nears, I expect pod kit prices to drop to encourage trial and switching. 

Brands will likely push for mass adoption, making it an even more cost-effective switch.

Marian: Illegal and non-compliant vapes will still circulate, so vapers must be extra cautious. 

The best way to ensure safety? Stick to responsible and reputable retailers.

Some illegal products may look nearly identical to legal ones, so it’s important to know what to check for. Any legal vape product post-ban must be:

✔ Rechargeable – It must have a built-in battery that can be recharged and a coil that can be replaced.
✔ Refillable – Either with a separate cartridge (pod) or an open system that allows refilling.

If a product doesn’t meet these criteria, it’s likely illegal or unsafe. When in doubt, check for branding, packaging details, and authenticity codes.

Marian: Unfortunately, our survey suggests that it might—at least slightly. 

Around 2% of vapers we surveyed said they would switch to rolling tobacco after the ban.

While that’s a small number, it still signals a step backward in harm reduction efforts. Disposables played a big role in converting adult smokers to vaping. Without them, some may revert to old habits. This makes it even more critical to raise awareness about the best alternatives.

Marian: Based on our data, prefilled pod systems will be the most popular alternative, with 43% of disposable users saying they plan to switch.

Why? Because they’re the most similar to disposables—same simple “plug and vape” experience, minimal maintenance, and a competitive price point.

Brands like Elf Bar and Lost Mary will continue to dominate. 

Their new pod kits are nearly identical to their best-selling disposables. With these kits, users can continue vaping their favourite flavours with a device that looks and feels the same, just rechargeable.

While pod kits may not yet offer the same massive flavour selection as disposables, that’s changing fast. Brands are actively expanding their flavour ranges to match consumer demand.

Marian: Potentially. The UK’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill, currently being discussed in Parliament, includes provisions for flavour restrictions. Other proposed regulations include:

• Plain packaging for all vapes
• Display and marketing restrictions in stores
• Limits on product features

However, even if these measures pass, they’re unlikely to take effect before late 2026. For now, flavoured vapes remain widely available.

Marian: With the focus shifting from disposables to reusable options, brands are racing to make pod kits even more user-friendly. Some key innovations we’re seeing include:

• Direct disposable conversions – The Elf Bar 600 Pod Kit and Lost Mary BM 600 Pod Kit are perfect examples of this.
• Larger capacity pod systems – Devices with two or even four pods in one unit, extending usage time.
• Refillable pod expansion – More brands are launching pod kits that can work with both prefilled pods and bottled e-liquids, offering more flexibility.

The goal? Make the switch from disposables effortless, so vapers don’t feel like they’re compromising.

The UK vape market is heading for a major shake-up, but vapers won’t be left without options. Prefilled pod kits are emerging as the leading alternative, offering a familiar experience without the need to buy a new disposable every time.

As the ban rolls out, staying informed is key. Trusted retailers will be crucial in ensuring vapers get legal, compliant, and high-quality products.

The future of vaping in the UK? Rechargeable, refillable, and ready to replace disposables.