New research by Public Health England suggests standardised packaging of tobacco products could boost Cornwall's economy, as well as bringing health benefits.
The new figures come following recent official data from Australia, where standardised packaging was introduced in December 2012. Data released by the Australian Treasury show a 3.4% fall in tobacco sales by volume in the first year following the introduction of standardised packs.
If that was mirrored here, PHE predicts that total savings in Cornwall would be more than £5.5 million.
"With tobacco a major cause of health inequalities – the greatest harm being suffered by the most disadvantaged – the benefits would be most felt in areas of greater social deprivation," said a PHE spokesperson. "It would not only reduce the devastating harm caused by smoking and boosting health improvement, but also increasing families' disposable income – money that could be spent on other things providing a real boost to local economies.
"Retailers earn relatively little profit from tobacco sales. On average, only 7 - 9% of the cost of tobacco is retained by the retailer, compared to 20 - 30% for food and drink products. Money saved by customers from reduced spending on tobacco is likely to be spent elsewhere locally and benefit local businesses more."
