Stop & Shop Has Ceased Selling Cigarettes

As of Aug. 31, Stop & Shop has ceased selling cigarettes at its 350 locations.

In a company press release, Stop & Shop announced that it is participating in this initiative to help curb smoking among its customers. The grocery retailer has stores in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey.

Gordon Reid, Stop & Shop President, explained why the grocery chain has removed tobacco products from its shelves. “Our responsibility as a grocer goes far beyond our aisles, and we are committed to taking bold steps to help our associates, customers, and communities work towards better health outcomes. From our team of registered dietitians that serve our customers at no cost to our trained and trusted pharmacy associates, Stop & Shop aims to support the health and well-being of the neighborhoods we serve — and this exit from tobacco is one more way we’re accomplishing that goal.”

To further promote its interest in a healthier lifestyle for its customers, Stop & Shop hosted two cigarette buyback events on Aug. 28 “at locations in neighborhoods within the brand’s footprint that have higher rates of smoking and smoking-related health issues.”

Stop & Shop ending cigarette sales is a big win for public health.

In Congress, I’m working to protect our kids by raising the age to 21 and banning flavored products that lure teens into smoking.

These steps prevent addiction & save lives.https://t.co/7cl1Ovv8t7

— Rep. Frank Pallone (@FrankPallone) August 29, 2024

Per the press release, the first 100 customers at these events who brought in an unopened pack or carton of cigarettes to trade in received a Stop & Shop gift card in exchange, plus a bag filled with healthy snacks, mints, and smoking cessation materials. These bags were created in partnership with the American Cancer Society and its advocacy affiliate, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN). The bags also contained coupons for Nicorette worth $10.

Katie Thornell, Stop & Shop’s director of pharmacy, said, “The health of our communities is a priority and quitting smoking greatly reduces the risk of developing smoking-related diseases. Our licensed pharmacists can help with providing guidance for smoking cessation, as well as immunization recommendations for those who may have lowered immunity as a result of smoking.”

The statement continued, “We welcome everyone looking to quit smoking to come and meet with one of our specially trained, dedicated pharmacists, who are partners in supporting our customers’ needs at their convenience.”

Ceasing the sale of tobacco products is part of the store’s commitment to its customers’ health and well-being. Stop & Shop regularly offers nutrition resources to all its customers. These Nutrition Partners and other information regarding local community events can be found at https://stopandshop.com/pages/health-and-wellness.