Southwark Council has revoked the licence of Nunhead Express, a shop in Kirkwood Road, after inspections uncovered a cache of counterfeit and illegal goods, including erectile dysfunction tablets, fake cigarettes, and over 1,000 single-use vapes.
Seizures and Inspections
Police seized counterfeit Marlboro Touch cigarettes, sold for £5 a pack during a covert test, along with £20 bags of supposed herbal cannabis and 100 large cans of nitrous oxide gas, often misused as a recreational drug. Further inspections revealed fake Labubu dolls and Polish lager with incorrect labelling.
The Licensing Sub-Committee unanimously agreed to revoke the licence on June 2, stating no confidence in the trader’s ability to operate responsibly. The operator has appealed, and the licence remains in place pending a Magistrates' decision.
Council's Stance
Councillor David Watson, executive member for community safety and engagement, said: "We’re determined to make Southwark safer by taking tough action against crime. Genuine, hardworking local retailers in our communities are undermined by the sale of fake, illegal and unsafe products – it is vital that we protect our local businesses as well as consumers by taking action where necessary."
He added: "This is another great result for our Trading Standards team. It shows Southwark Council will stand-up for legitimate businesses and safer high streets, and we will protect our neighbourhoods."
Background and Reporting
Nunhead Express was previously known as Nisa, but the franchise was terminated due to the issues found. The sale of illegal products can be anonymously reported to London Trading Standards online.
