The Vapour Central Story: From Family Startup to Local Stop-Smoking Leader
In an industry full of chain stores and online giants, Vapour Central stands out — not just for what we sell, but for why we do it.
Since opening our doors in 2014, we've been a proudly independent, family-run vape shop with one mission: to help people in Essex quit smoking for good. From a single store in Westcliff to three trusted branches, our journey is rooted in community, compassion, and real results.
Where It All Began
We started Vapour Central in 2014 with a clear goal — to create a local, friendly space where people could access honest advice and quality vape products without pressure or confusion.
Our first shop opened in Westcliff-on-Sea, quickly becoming a community hub for those looking to quit smoking, explore vaping, or simply learn more. What started as a single store grew through reputation, word of mouth, and trust.
Helping Essex Quit Smoking Since 2017
In 2017, Vapour Central became an official delivery partner of the Southend Smoke Free service, working in partnership with Everyone Health. This partnership allows us to provide:
- Free vape starter kits for eligible Southend residents*
- One-to-one in-store guidance in Westcliff, Leigh, and Rayleigh
- Structured quit plans aligned with NHS best practices
- Support backed by GPs, Southend Borough Council, and the wider NHS
Our work has been recognised as part of Southend’s larger ambition to become the UK’s first “Smoke Free” city. In a 2023 Echo News article, health officials credited local vape businesses like ours for helping pave the way towards this public health goal.
We’ve also played an early role in supporting the nationwide “Swap to Stop” scheme — designed to get 1 million smokers in the UK to switch to vaping as a healthier alternative. As a trusted community provider, we’re proud to be part of that solution right here in Essex.
Click here to learn more about our Smoke Free service.
What Makes Us Different
| Big Retail Chains | Vapour Central |
|---|---|
| Scripted sales pitch | Personalised support from real people |
| Online-only or call centres | In-person advice 7 days a week |
| Stock of unknown origin | 100% legal, MHRA-notified products |
| No public health training | NHS-approved support + follow-ups |
Meet the Team
We’re proud to employ local staff who genuinely care about helping others. For example:
Rosie, now our Westcliff store manager, began as a part-time advisor in 2021. Her approachable nature and commitment to our stop-smoking programme have helped dozens of customers quit for good.
Independent, Ethical, Local
- Three local stores — always near you
- No upselling — just honest help
- Established 2014 — trusted by thousands
- Smoke Free delivery partner — since 2017
Where to Find Us
- Westcliff-on-Sea: 73 Hamlet Court Road, SS0 7EU – 0330 133 3007
- Leigh-on-Sea: 1101 London Road, SS9 3JJ – 0330 133 3007
- Rayleigh: 3 Hambro Parade, SS6 9PU – 01268 253316
No appointments needed in Westcliff or Leigh. Just bring ID and start your quit journey today!
*Eligibility criteria may apply for free kits. Speak to a team member for full details.