The Confederation of tobacconists has announced a day of national mobilization on March 31, the date on which parliamentary debates on the Health Bill will begin, which notably provides for the establishment of a neutral cigarette pack.
Tobacconists denounce the neutral package as a punishment
Traders are not against the idea of fight against smoking, but they denounce this packet of tobacco as a form of punishment.
“This measure is ineffective and degrading, explains the Confederation of tobacconists in a press release. It will create unequal competition between French tobacconists and neighboring countries (Germany, Belgium, Spain, Italy) which have already refused the neutral package and in which the consumers will go to get supplies “.
Tobacconists: a symbolic one-hour closure and a parade
Thus, tobacconists will close their shop between 2 and 3 p.m. with the aim of carrying out a symbolic action. An event will also be held around 12:30 p.m. The traders will march from the Ministry of Health, at the origin of this decision, to the National Assembly.
In France, the launch of the neutral package will not be effective before mid-2016, but professionals in this sector want to be heard and hope that the Government will change its mind.
Neutral package: violent slogans and images to shock consumers
Remember that with these packages, consumers will no longer have meaningful information on the brand of tobacco they are buying. Slogans and images intended to shock them will be put forward on the outside of the packaging.
Already established in Australia for several years, the neutral cigarette pack is not the cause of a significant drop in consumption.
Read also :
– Tobacco: neutral packages arrive in France
– Tobacco: the neutral package flops in France
