Fiserv, BP Warn US Stores Against Illegal Vape Sales

Payments platform Fiserv and service station operators including BP have warned their U.S. partners and store owners not to deal in illegal vapes or risk heavy fines as a consequence, notices seen by Reuters show.

Details of the Action

Backed by attorneys general from states including California, Illinois and Arizona as well as authorities from New York City, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, the crackdown has in recent weeks helped secure a ban on vapes by Shopify.

"BP has learned that MasterCard has begun issuing... compliance violation notices to merchants throughout the industry for processing sales transactions for illegal electronic nicotine delivery system products," BP wrote in an undated notice to its gas station operators.

Company Stance

Neither Fiserv, BP nor MasterCard have issued official comments yet. However, the notices underscore their commitment to enforcing laws related to tobacco and nicotine products.

Context

The crackdown is part of broader efforts to combat illegal vaping in the U.S., which often targets minors. Shopify banned vape sales on its platform after regulatory pressure.

Potential Financial Impact

Stricter enforcement could lead to significant fines for violators, but it enhances the reputation of compliant companies and reduces legal risks. Investors may view this as a positive governance development.