How to Become a part of the Vaping Industry
ALEX ZEIG
Of the 21.5 million smokers who tried to quit smoking in 2018, only 7.5% were successful.
Some research suggests that vaping can help people who want to quit smoking. With as much as 68% of smokers wanting to quit, there are obvious opportunities in the vaping industry.
Getting involved in any industry involves planning, cost-analysis, and a lot of paperwork. Getting involved in this industry, in particular, means following strict regulations and having other industry-specific knowledge.
But becoming part of the vaping industry can be done. Follow this guide to start planning for success.
Why Get Involved in the Vaping Industry?
Smoking causes a multitude of conditions and diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. The good news is, a lot of smokers want to quit and are looking for ways to help them do so.
Although they're not an FDA approved quit smoking aid, there is research to suggest that vaporizer use is associated with greater smoking cessation. As more smokers seek out alternatives to help them quit smoking, the vaping industry continues to grow.
In fact, in 2018 the global vaping industry was worth more than $14 billion. By 2022, it's expected to reach nearly $30 billion.
That potential alone is reason enough to enter the vaping industry. But before getting involved, you should understand the obstacles of starting a vaping business and what you need to prepare for.
Online or Brick and Mortar?
One of the biggest decisions you'll have to make is whether to have a brick and mortar store or whether to sell your vaping products online. That decision will have a lot to do with the state in which you live.
If you live in a state that's actively enforcing bans on the sale of vaping products, then a brick and mortar shop is a no-go. In that case, you might have no choice but to sell your product online.
You'll also need to consider taxation when choosing between the two. Some states and municipalities collect taxes on these products, and in some states these taxes are significant. Make sure you know what you'll be paying in taxes, the cost could be too much to make a brick and mortar shop and affordable option.
Knowing the Rules
Arguably, the most important thing you need to consider when getting into the vaping industry are FDA regulations. E-cigarettes are heavily regulated by the FDA and they're subject to the same regulations as tobacco products.
The American vaping industry is a relatively new one and FDA regulations can change. Indeed, there are new regulations expected to come into effect as of 2022. Meaning that not only do you have to know FDA regulations as they stand, but you also have to be prepared for changes that affect your business down the line.
FDA regulations affect everything from how you sell your product to how you plan your costs. Knowing these regulations and how to comply in advance will help you figure out how you're business is going to work.
Starting Your Business
The next step, and most creative one, is coming up with a name for your business. Once you have a name in mind, you'll need to check that the name is available. You can do so on the Secretary of State's website.
Then, you'll need to register your business. Registration is required on federal, state, and local levels.
There might also be licenses and permits that you need to get in order to operate in some states, counties, and cities. Don't forget about the fees that you'll have to pay for each of these, which will vary depending on your location.
To properly register your vaping business, it's a good idea to consult a lawyer. The country clerk's office will also have information on the local regulations you need to follow in order to legally operate.
Other Costs to Consider
Beyond the costs of taxes, regulations, licensing, and permit fees, there are a host of other costs to consider before entering the vaping industry. These costs include:
- Insurance coverage
- Payroll for employees
- Rent
- Inventory
Inventory can be among the trickiest costs to consider, but you can count on needing thousands of dollars for a proper stock. At the very least, you'll require hardware, coils, batteries, battery chargers, e-liquids, and vaping kits. Make sure to include the cost of a point of sale systems to run the financial transactions on a day to day basis as well.
Choosing a Supplier
In order to start you inventory, you'll need to choose a reputable supplier. You have to count on your supplier to ensure you have products in stock and on time. Whether you have an online store or a brick and mortar warehouse, a good supplier is key to your success in the vaping industry.
When you're making your choice, you need to think about the brands they carry and their costs in comparison to other suppliers. You should also take into consideration their shipping costs and their return policy. All of these will have an impact on your bottom line.
Start Purchasing Inventory
Starting any small business has its obstacles and considerations. Starting a business in the vaping industry comes with its own specific issues. But it's not impossible to join the booming American vaping industry.
Before anything else, you first need to decide whether you're going to sell online or from a brick and mortar shop. Making that decision will help you familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of your state as well as of the FDA. From there, you can start thinking about logistics like naming your business and getting it registered.
Throughout the process, you'll get an idea of costs, but there are of course other costs to consider. And last but not least, you'll choose a supplier. Contact us to find out how we might help with the final step.
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