Google Searches for Disposable Vapes Surged to 33,000 Amid Single-Use Vape Ban

June 8, 2025 – UK Google search volumes for disposable vapes spiked dramatically in the days surrounding the UK government’s ban on single-use vapes, according to new research by Vape Delivery. On May 31, 2025, the day before the ban came into effect—searches for disposable vapes skyrocketed to an all-time high of 33,810, representing a 1,567% increase compared to early May.

The surge reflects rising public interest and possible stockpiling behaviour ahead of the June 1st legislation that made the sale of disposable vapes illegal across the United Kingdom.

Rise in Disposable Vape Searches:

  • On May 7, 2025, searches for disposable vapes stood at 2,028.
  • By May 31, searches had peaked at 33,810, a staggering 1,567% increase in just 24 days.
  • In a few days preceding the ban, searches on May 29 jumped from 7,438 to 33,810 on May 31
  • A sustained high volume of searches continued after the ban, with 24,681 searches recorded on June 1 and 10,143 on June 2. These elevated levels now seem to now be diminishing.
  • Between May 24 and June 2, total searches for disposable vapes exceeded 120,000.

This explosive rise indicates that despite the impending restriction, consumer demand remained strong, potentially fuelling a last-minute rush to stock up on the single use devices before the sale was outlawed. These figures align with previous reports in the media of bulk-buying behaviours.

Rise in Rechargeable Vape Searches

Interestingly, there was also a parallel uptick in searches for rechargeable (non-disposable) vapes, suggesting a shift in consumer interest toward legal alternatives:

  • Search volume for rechargeable vapes jumped from 733 on May 25 to 2,037 on May 31, a 178% increase over just six days.
  • Rechargeable vape searches peaked on May 31 and June 1, aligning precisely with the disposable vape spike—indicating consumers were seeking legal alternatives.

Implications and Commentary

These search trends highlight public adaptation to vaping regulations and possible market shifts. Industry experts expect that retailers and vape manufacturers will now pivot towards refillable, longer-lasting vaping products to meet ongoing consumer demand.

Lewis Clark, 31 - founder of Vape Delivery, an online vape retailer commented on the findings.

"It is disappointing to see the bulk buying behaviours previously reported in the media is backed up by the research. Our hope is that consumers will switch to more environmentally friendly options—it is likely that consumers have been tempted by retailers reducing prices to relinquish existing stock. However the uptick in searches specifically for reusable vapes is promising and provides the industry confidence that a portion of consumers are intending to switch to other legal vaping products."

"I am predicting a 20-30% loss in revenue for vape e-commerce retailers as some consumers switch back to tobacco-based products. However, retailers that have concentrated their stock and marketing on reusable vaping devices will be well-versed to weather the consumer behaviour change".

The ban, introduced as part of broader public health efforts to reduce youth vaping, has already begun to reshape online interest and purchasing intent. However, the immediate aftermath suggests the public may not be fully aligned with the regulation—yet.

Methodology

Search data collected using Glimpse, a trend analysis tool.