Plain packaging making a difference

 

In early November, buying cigarettes became a little more complicated. Smokers could no longer ask for a ‘large blue king’ as it became illegal to package cigarettes in anything but plain brown, covered with government warnings. The brand name appears in plain lettering with no logo. 

Previous packaging was colourful and could use words like ‘light’ or ‘smooth.’ 

Shop owner Ehsan Samei, of Park Groceries and Gifts in downtown Windsor, said his customers lately have not been happy about the new plain packaging. 

“Most of our customers have actually been complaining about the taste, the flavour of the smokes and some of them have been telling us that they changed the filters,” said Samei. “They’re not really happy about it, compared to what it used to be.” 

The packaging officially changed on Nov. 9, 2019 in response to new provincial legislation. The cost of the cigarette cartons will remain the same, some packages can range between $11 and $15 depending on the number of cigarettes. In 2018, approximately 4.9 million Canadians aged 12 and up were still smoking cigarettes occasionally or daily.