Quick Pick Store Runcorn Ltd (formerly known as Rojcorn), at 2b Church Street, was the subject of a lengthy investigation by Halton Trading Standards.
The premises were visited by Halton Borough Council Trading Standards officers on six occasions and found to be selling illegal tobacco and vapes.
Despite multiple visits, seizures, and warnings, they continued to sell counterfeit tobacco and illicit vapes. On two occasions, the illegal stock was hidden in sophisticated concealments, uncovered by a tobacco detection dog.
As a result of the continued use of the premises to cause nuisance, and to facilitate criminal activity, on 20 May 2025, Crewe Magistrates Court granted an application made by Halton Trading Standards service for a three-month Closure Order against the premises. This is the maximum time permitted for a closure order. The Order was granted following an application under The Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. The premises will now remain closed until 9 August 2025.
Cllr Andrea Wall, Executive Board Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, said: ‘The Council has a duty to protect the health of our residents in Halton, and I’m pleased that the Magistrates have supported the actions of the Council and in doing so agreed to impose the Closure Order to prevent the business from continuing to trade.
“It is important that our Trading Standards Officers continue to investigate and prosecute those involved in the supply of counterfeit/illicit tobacco and non-compliant vapes. The sale of counterfeit/illicit tobacco is a real concern, and more so when our children are at risk of harm. Closing a business is not a decision we take lightly, but when businesses continue to flout the law, despite adequate warnings, then this approach becomes necessary. I hope this sends out a strong and clear message, that we will not tolerate this criminal activity and there is no hiding place.”
A spokesperson for Halton Trading Standards went on to say: “The use of Closure Orders is an additional tool that we will use in addition to our criminal enforcement powers. It allows us to take robust action to disrupt illegal activity and send a clear message that we will take a tough stance to protect the residents in Halton and support our legitimate traders.
“I would like to thank those who provided us with the information to act against this premises. Please continue reporting such activity so that we can take the necessary action. You can report it, anonymously if you wish, via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.”
If you have any information specifically relating to the sale of illicit cigarettes or alcohol in Halton, telephone the Halton Trading Standards Hotline for Alcohol and Tobacco on 0151 511 8787. This is a reporting voicemail facility only; information can be left anonymously. However, please provide enough information to identify those involved and if you want feedback your contact details too.
Remember all other Trading Standards matters should be reported by contacting 0808 223 1133, as above.