Vapelyfe Magazine Issue 01

THE IDEAL OHM SHOW EXCLUSIVE

AARON BIERBERT

LAUNCH

COMPETITION

‘A BILLION LIVES’ Q&A

VAPING POGONOPHILE

AUTHENTIC VAPER

JOURNEY

SPEAKS

www.VapeLyfeMag.co.uk

issue 01

Editors’ Letter Hi all, A very warm welcome to the first issue of VapeLyfe Magazine. It has taken a year for this digital publication to come to fruition, and it has flown by. After months of research, networking (our favourite part), long intense conversations in cloudy rooms across the country and plenty of juice-sampling, we’re proud to bring this magazine to you.

This issue is jam-packed with exciting features including an exclusive interview with the cool hosts of The Ideal Ohm Show, an insightful Q&A with director of ‘A Billion Lives’ Aaron Biebert, and a fascinating article about the Vaping Pogonophile who talks about his incredible vaping journey. Be sure to check out our competition to celebrate the launch of the magazine, where you can win some fantastic prizes including tasty juices that are creating waves in the industry.

VapeLyfe Magazine was borne with the sole intention of working for you and those in the vaping industry. Those featured in the magazine are not only advertisers, but people who we care about and respect. Post-TPD, we really need to be supportive of each other. This is a special shout-out to those working hard in the industry, who go about their daily business, who change lives by spreading the vaping word. Consider yourselves virtual high-fived.

We want you, people in the vaping industry, to shape the narrative of this magazine, because we care about what you think. We want to know what you’d like to read about. Are there any burning topics you’d like us to cover?

Is there a supplier, manufacturer or vape store that’s going above and beyond the call of duty, who you think deserves a mention? And because it’s nearly Christmas, do you have any new year’s resolutions that involve vaping? Please get in touch and email us using hashtag #LetUsKnow in the subject heading.

We’ve got some really exciting features coming up, which we can’t wait to tell you about. Time is the most precious commodity (after your vape gear of course), so we’d like to thank you for taking the time out to read our magazine.

If you do contact advertisers featured in this magazine, we’d really appreciate if you could mention where you heard about them. It lets us know that we’re doing our job properly.

This is just the start. We have loved bringing you issue one; here’s to many more. We hope you’ll stick around and join us for the ride.

Merry Christmas!

Team VapeLyfe Disclaimer VapeLyfe Magazine is a trade publication intended for those who work in the e-cigarette industry. You must be a professional in the vaping business and be over 18 years old to view this magazine. Every care is taken for this magazine to reach its target audience of vape industry professionals. We also make every effort to publish material that is accurate and error-free. We accept zero responsibility for claims made by manufacturers, suppliers, distributors or advertisers. Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. No parts of this magazine can be reproduced without written consent of VapeLyfe Magazine.

22 - editors letter

Cover Art: Norman “Vogue” Chuck

contents - 33

The Authentic Vaper: the argument for authentic vaping products

The Burning Tab Master by The Friday Morning was straight-up cloned. Firstly by Coil Master as the 521 Tab and then by Eycotech – both of which are blatant rip-offs. The word “Tab” is being used on more and more devices that are designed to act as a build station.

How each of these small hobbyists feels about it, you’d have to ask them. But I’d wager there’d

Vaping moves very quickly, and the argument

be either anger, a sense of resignation and

between authentic and clones is no exception. 18

disillusionment, or they may

months ago the argument looked very different than

well just want to forget

it does today. So, here’s what I think of clone vaping

the good they’ve done

products and how they affect vaping.

for vaping.

Many of the successful designs that you see are as a result of hobbyist vapers taking the leap into turning an idea into a reality. For example, the Chuff Enuff’s Chuff Cap, the Velocity RDA from Avid Vapers or the Burning Tab Master from The Friday Morning. All of them being one or two people, putting their own cash into an idea. They couldn’t afford to sit on the magic roundabout of lawyers and patents, but they went ahead and did it anyway – because they wanted vapers to have a better experience.

Each of the above examples has been copied in different ways. The Chuff Cap has become part of cloud-chasing culture. Much like how people use the name of a brand or product name as a verb – “I’m going to Hoover up”, the Chuff Cap has become a cover-all for any wide-bore drip tip. As for the Chuff

Another large part of the argument comes down to

Cap, that’s no longer being produced.

people using clones, but this can be broken down into two groups – those who use clones and those

The Velocity on the other hand had part of their

who advocate the use of clones.

design thrown into a sizeable number of RDA’s and RTA’s. The “Velocity-style deck” being something that

The former may or may not know what they are using

people look upon as an advantageous addition to a

is a clone. They may be a new vaper who doesn’t

modern atomiser.

know that this argument exists, or that they’re not

4 - the authentic vaper

able to spot that the person behind the counter of their local shop is actually selling them a clone.

When it comes to holding value, right now an

There are many reasons why someone may be using

authentic Velocity will still have two-thirds of its

one, but the further into vaping you go – the more

original value at the very least – find the right buyer

difficult it becomes to justify the use of a clone.

and you’d be able to sell for RRP and get all your money back.

The second group are the clone advocates. Now that we’re at the point of having brilliant devices

Can’t afford that Rig mod? Look at the Switch mod;

and atomisers at every price point, there’s no reason

it’s a great bit of kit. Can’t afford that Kennedy? How

to suggest that someone use a clone. Usually their

about the Tsunami instead. Can’t afford a TopHat

argument consists of “The authentic is too expensive,

mod? Hit up an S-Body Elfin – it’s got the same board

get a clone” or “The authentic is too hard to find, get

and power delivery.

a clone”.

Vaping is full of self-entitlement and the desire for If it’s because it’s too expensive, then that’s life - as

the latest and greatest – but at what cost to the

Mick says “You can’t always get what you want”. Sure,

people who made vaping what it is today?

you’d like an Aston Martin DB9 but you somehow make do with a perfectly reliable VW Golf. Why can’t

Buying authentic vape gear also doesn’t make you

you do the same with an atomiser or a mod?

an elitist either - it makes you a conscientious vaper who doesn’t judge how much something costs, just

If it’s because it’s too hard to find, then look harder.

where it came from.

Part of the fun in hobbyist vaping, is the hunt.

Putting in effort and being rewarded.

And you know the silliest thing of all? Nearly all the people who get accused of being elitists are using

There shouldn’t be any need to suggest that someone use a clone. The gap between the lowmid range and the high-end is narrower than ever, and that’s purely because the low-mid range has

EXACTLY the same gear on a day-to-day basis as the budget vaper.

improved drastically – it’s almost at the point where a clone setup is the same price as an authentic setup that will perform equally as well.

Factor in the aftermarket support for your clone setup. There isn’t any. Factor in that your clone setup won’t hold its value, and that your clone setup is supporting businesses that have fewer scruples when it comes to employment rights, etc. After all, they were shady enough to copy someone else’s work – why not be shady with their other practices, be they US, British or from the Far East.

the authentice vaper - 5

Website: www.rhombus.moda E-mail: danielc.rhombus@gmail.com

rhombus Q & A

with what we could truly offer. My focus is to

You’re looking to expand your e-liquid

flavourful and trustworthy Malaysian e-liquids

range and don’t look forward to endlessly

to other countries.

make available high-quality, premium grade,

trawling store websites for reviews, reddit and Facebook. With Christmas around the corner, worry about? How about if someone did all

Where do you want to be in 5 years’ time?

the hard work for you? If you’re looking for

To be a well-established trustworthy brand,

e-liquids with a difference in one single place,

having all e-liquids under the Rhombus

look no further than Rhombus, who is an

umbrella to be the ‘go to’ Malaysian made

exporter of the finest quality e-liquids native

e-liquid brand in every country that we have

to Malaysia.

presence.

wouldn’t it be great to have one less thing to

They do all the tedious research and hard legwork so you don’t have to. By handpicking premium breweries, Rhombus ensure they only work with the crème de la crème. Founded earlier this year, Rhombus is headquartered in Malaysia and is supported by a seven-person team.

VapeLyfe Magazine caught up with International Sales Director at Rhombus, Daniel Chang. Find out what he had to say about why Rhombus stands out from the exporter crowd, the vape scene in Malaysia, and how it compares to the UK. This hip,

Rhombus is an umbrella company with an impressive portfolio of e-liquid manufacturers. How do you choose which brewers make the grade, to be included on your export list?

All brewers must pass a mandatory checklist as follows:

dynamic company is going places – expect to see more of Rhombus in the UK soon.

Why create an export e-liquid company?

Whilst studying in the UK a few years’ ago, I noticed the vape scene there wasn’t as big as it is now. The selection of e-liquids available during that period was limited. At most, the impressive e-liquids from the USA consisted mainly of dessert flavours. There were a few Malaysian juices brought to the UK by other parties, but they were still not up to par

rhombus q&A - 7

Rhombus is making great in-roads in the global market. It is keen to explore the UK market and make worthwhile connections. How would you best describe Rhombus in three words, so people can get an idea of what you’re about?

Professional, trustworthy and dynamic.

You have a diverse range of e-liquids. Are there flavourists (people who create and taste the e-liquids) on the Rhombus team, who pick and choose the flavours? What do they look for?

We have our in-house e-liquid connoisseurs and R&D team. They vape flavours and rate them accordingly. They then share opinions to help brewers out on their recipes for e-liquids.

We focus on the complexity of the e-liquid, layers of taste and overall body of the e-liquid.

The final decision is based on the total scores which are rated carefully to every single detail. We are very selective when it comes to choosing the juices we represent!

Although fruity and tropical flavours seem to be the most popular in the Malaysian market, cooling mint flavouring has its hardcore fans too. How did you

8 - rhombus q&a

come up with the idea to have varying degrees of cooling mint in your e-liquids? Has this been well received?

Malaysia is a tropical country where the weather is hot and humid all year round.

Thus, it would only make more sense to have cooling mint in most of them. As different markets enjoy varying degrees of cooling mint, we see this as an opportunity to cater for them.

I’m a vape store wanting to stock your e-liquids. What are the next steps to make this happen? Is there a lead-time, from making an enquiry, to having your tasty e-liquids in my store?

Depending on your location, the lead time varies between 2 to 3 weeks. Of course, lead time could be shortened where we have sales personnel presence. Alternatively, you can also visit our website at www.rhombus.moda for further details.

Vaping has really taken off in Malaysia. How would you describe the vaping scene over there?

The vape scene in Malaysia has been around for approximately 7 years but only took off about 3 years ago. However, the Malaysian government started to crack down on vape

stores by confiscating all products in shops

least that’s what customers have been telling

and placing a ban in certain states. It slowed

me.

trade down tremendously but there are still individuals who are passionate about creating their own e-liquid on a daily basis.

What do you think of the UK vaping scene and how does it compare to the Malaysian market?

What is your favourite thing about the working in the vaping industry?

The diversity and background of people in this great industry.

Malaysia on the other hand is more saturated,

What advice would you give to someone considering quitting smoking for vaping?

as it has been around for a number of years. I

I would encourage them to quit smoking

believe there is high potential for the vaping

gradually via vaping. Vaping enables a gradual

scene in the UK to expand furthermore.

reduction in nicotine intake and hopefully

The vape scene in the UK is still booming, even with the TPD regulations kicking in.

one day, the individual will be completely

How do you think Rhombus can add to the already eclectic mix?

weaned off nicotine.

At present, America produces the best dessert

wholesale enquiries go to

flavoured e-liquids and Malaysia produces

website www.rhombus.moda or

the best fruity flavoured e-liquids. There is

email: danielc.rhombus@gmail.com now.

To find out more about Rhombus or make

clearly a demand for Malaysian e-liquids on an international level. Rhombus is building a road for itself to provide these top-notch Malaysian made e-liquids. Our target market are clients who demand quality and endusers who knows what they are consuming.

How do you want people to feel when they’re vaping your Rhombus range e-liquids?

I want them to be impressed on the first inhalation and would like them to choose Rhombus as their everyday vaping e-liquid.

Once you go Rhombus, you never go back. At

rhombus q&A - 9

The Vapin g Pogonophil e 1010- the vaping pogonophile

The Vaping Pognophile is a vaping legend. This dapper dude has been creating waves in the vaping industry ever since he started writing about his two passions; vaping and beards. Over the next few months you’ll get to hear about The Vaping Pognophile and what makes him tick. From former smoker to dedicated vaper, read about his inspirational vaping journey right here. Here is the first instalment, enjoy!

At 12 years of age, on the isle of Guernsey, on a

or green when sucked, producing a small

Scout camp I tried my first cigarette. It was a

amount of vape. A lot of the guys were using

menthol More cigarette (I believe they still sell

them as well as smoking, and I couldn’t help

them).

think… what was the point of that?

I don’t particularly remember enjoying it, but

I asked them what they were doing and this

it was what the older lads were doing. The

was my first introduction to the electronic

‘cool’ lads. In the same year I moved schools

cigarette.

and I seemed to slot in with the smoking crew.

Wow!!!

Looking back, I find it quite odd that the

Not really. They looked pathetic and the guys

school did very little to stop the smoking –

who were using them, after a few weeks if

and the crew did very little to try and hide it.

that, had returned to smoking cigarettes.

In fact, the preferred place when it was dry was by the cricket nets in front of the science

Electronic cigarettes did however make me

block – in full view of several teachers.

think, and it wasn’t until I had a conversation with my wife that my journey into the

Occasionally some of the hardened dinner

unknown continued. My wife had a friend

ladies would confront the group and we’d

whose husband used e-cigs but not the

disperse, just to go around the block and

cigarette looking ones. She said that she

return to the cricket nets to carry on.

would ask him to get in touch with me about it. I waited on an email.

I continued to smoke for a further 24 years. As the years started to add up, I slowly realised

A couple of days later I heard from Carl (the

that I had smoked for longer than I had not.

husband of my wife’s friend). It was a great

During the last 5 years of smoking I had tried

email giving me all the information of how

giving up several times, each attempt as

he had converted from smoking to vaping. It

unsuccessful as the next.

was concise and measured, with some great directions including information about the

By the beginning of 2011 I started to see

online company that he ordered everything

people (mainly at work) with plastic cigarette

from – Totallywicked-eliquid.co.uk.

shaped objects, whose ends glowed blue

the vaping pogonophile - 11

I went to this website, had a good look

Well, when I look back it wasn’t quite, but you

around and found all the things Carl had

get the gist. It was good enough that I didn’t

written about. After a few more email

have another cigarette again... ever! (Well

exchanges with Carl, I was ready to make an

apart from once whilst drunk so it doesn’t

order!

count and I didn’t finish it.)

I had been ready to quit smoking for quite

The reality, was that this was an OK unit. It

a while, but my nicotine addiction was

was prone to leaking, occasionally getting

ridiculous. I couldn’t control it. I also had

a mouthful of liquid or the mouthpiece

a wife who didn’t smoke. She had never

breaking in your pocket and liquid

smoked and would complain about the smell.

everywhere. Also because you couldn’t see

She wasn’t a fan of waiting around either

how full the tank was, you could accidentally

whilst I had a cigarette, which was usually

do a dry hit which usually meant the atomiser

before going anywhere; a shop, restaurant,

was done for. I persevered, I was happy with

pub, supermarket, into the house, before

this, the minor negatives only happened

getting in the car and the time spent alone

occasionally enough to not bother me too

on the couch whilst I nipped out for a ciggy.

much and I HAD GIVEN UP SMOKING!

At the time, I felt this was a little exaggerated,

My wife was happier, my pocket was happier

but looking back quite true. Then there

and most of all I was happier. I consequently

was the cost. Smoking had become very

bought more units and carried lots of spares.

expensive. Even with the outlay of what

Nothing was going to stop this working...

seemed quite expensive equipment and

nothing!

e-liquid, the comparative cost was about a third (if not more) of smoking over the same

I bought loads of e-liquid and I mean LOADS

time period.

of different flavours to try. It all seemed so exciting – not only could I get my nicotine

I bought a beginners Tornedo Tank kit which

hit but I could do it in all kinds of flavours. I

consisted of 3 parts to the cigarette. A battery

bought all my liquids through Totally Wicked.

(with charger), an atomiser unit that screwed

I think at the time they did 3 different ‘own’

onto the battery and a plastic mouthpiece

brands with multiple flavours available in

that had a tank for the e-liquid (which clicked

each.

into place into the atomiser). To operate, you pressed a button and sucked at the same

Here are a few flavours: apple; cherry; coffee;

time. I also bought some Totally Wicked

Marlboro; French Marlboro; blueberry - the

tobacco flavour e-liquid at 30mg nicotine (yes,

list is long. I couldn’t get on with any of them,

this was very high!). I used this same e-liquid

some I just don’t know what they were trying

for 3 years.

to be but they weren’t nice. Others tasted good on the inhale but not on the exhale.

IT WAS AMAZING!

12 - the vaping pogonohile

Others I found pleasant and I thought I had

hit upon a good one, but after a day or two

I spent a lot of time looking at the Totally

they had left a horrible taste in my mouth.

Wicked site and watching how quickly the

Much later on I found out that this was mainly

e-cig technology advanced.

due to the high nicotine level I insisted on having.

I tried new things as they arrived, I remember

As I said before, I stuck with the one liquid

the first clearomisers, which were a great idea,

that worked for me, which was Totally Wicked

but just didn’t work particularly well (this was

tobacco. I think I got on with this the most,

the first version of the atomiser being inside

because it didn’t really taste of anything at all.

the liquid).

The Totally Wicked company has been great

Then the arrival of the Nova tank

to me and thousands of other people. Their

revolutionised vaping for me…

customer service is fantastic, their equipment excellent quality. Please, just because I didn’t

We hate to tease, but this article is to be

get on with the e-liquid doesn’t mean that

continued. You’ll just have to read about The

it is not good e-liquid, it is each to their own

Pogonophile’s exciting vaping journey in the

personal preference.

second issue of VapeLyfe Magazine.

Also at the time and through talking with

If you just can’t get enough of this very cool

the people on the Totally Wicked forum, the

dude’s musings or fantastic reviews (and

general consensus was that there was a lot of

we really wouldn’t blame you) check out his

dodgy stuff out there and to stick to what you

website www.VapingPogonophile.com now.

knew and what you trusted. I trusted Totally

Why not stalk him on social media too? He

Wicked so I stuck with them and why wouldn’t

can be found at:

I?

Website: www.vapingpogonophile.com Twitter: @V_Pogonophile Instagram: @VapingPogonophile Facebook: /VapingPogonophile Email: hello@VapingPogonophile.com

the vaping pogonophile - 13

ÂŽ

magazine

14

The Ideal Ohm Show (ios) is one of the most entertaining and informative shows focused on vaping.

Hosted by Craig Harrison, John Martin, Ric Grove and Richard Vick, the fearless foursome continues to educate and inform on myriad aspects of vaping. The dynamic of the hosts and the way they bounce off each other, is one of the things that makes this show highly watchable. Four guys, chatting about vaping and what’s hot in the industry, whilst having bucket loads of fun is compelling viewing. Get to know more about these hosts in this enlightening interview, where you’ll learn about how IOS came to be, the hosts’ thoughts on vape events around the country, and the future of vaping. A massive thank you to IOS for their time – continue rocking our world.

16 - IOS

What are your day jobs?

C: Software Engineer. Gripping stuff.

J: Estate Manager, I look after the structure of a listed building that has been converted into apartments.

RG: Retailing mod making parts on www.modmaker.co.uk.

RV: In my day job I am project manager for a software development company which specialises in retirement income. I enjoy the separation it gives me from my enjoyment of vaping.

How did you all meet?

J: I first met Craig in a lesser known Facebook group and then in person at Vapefest 2016. Ric I met in a Hangout when we were first planning The Ideal Ohm Show and in person at Vape Jam in London, where I also met Richard, who’s been out with us at every vape meet too.

RG: I met John and Craig when we started the show, and Richard at the vape conventions.

RV: First properly met the guys at Vape Jam in London. We were only talking for twenty minutes or so before we found ourselves in the local pub just outside the venue. I knew immediately that they were my kind of people. Ended up drinking with them all at Expo and Fest and kept in touch with them through the community and social media.

C: Knew of John from Safer Vapers (he’s an admin, so everyone thinks he’s some kind of vaping god), then got to meet him at Vapefest in 2015. Got to know Ric through Dean bringing him in to do IOS and Richard because we kept bumping into each other in convention bars. Pretty much hit it off with all three straight away - they’re good people first-and-foremost.

IOS - 17

On the shows, you’ve stayed away from promoting the normal paths for advocacy in vaping in the UK, and instead talked of a different approach. What is that and why?

RG: Without ranting too much, these so called advocate groups don’t realise that when they spam Facebook they are preaching to the converted, as

same thing over and over but expecting a different result would be called madness by some. Personally I favour promoting vaping in a positive way and getting as many people as possible to stop smoking.

Petitions, t-shirts and letter campaigns have yet to show a positive result, in my humble opinion.

What has been your favourite vape event in the UK this year so far?

everyone who vapes and uses the Facebook groups already knows. It’s such a small percentage of vapers in these groups that it’s pointless singing the same old song to the same few people. The best form of advocacy in my opinion is vaping in public and talking to anyone that is interested about why they should vape instead of smoke. Pass on your knowledge and unused gear to help people.

RV: I love all vape events – if it’s a meet in a shop or a noisy smelly warehouse I don’t mind. I just enjoy sharing my enthusiasm for my hobby with likeminded people. The event I have to say that I had the most fun at this year was Expo; I had a lovely hotel on campus that I staggered back to around 5am. The event was massive and very interesting and I managed to spend time with a lot of different

RV: We are honest and open minded people, if a

groups of friends.

successful method of advocating vaping became apparent we would evaluate it and promote it. The truth is that nothing has up to this point been in any way successful on any level. We instead try to focus

C: Vapefest. If I were 20-years younger then maybe Expo, but it’s all about catching up with friends, good food, drinking, and trying not to get into trouble.

on what we can control, which is attracting more smokers to vaping, saving their lives and increasing our numbers and therefore our significance to the

J: Vapefest, the atmosphere is just fantastic and the fact that it’s outside only adds to it for me.

political landscape.

RG: I’d have to say Vapefest due to the nature of the C: Advocacy in the UK is just rubbish. Too many groups all heading in different directions, all wanting to out-do each other for the sake of out-

event. It’s all about being sociable which makes it more relaxed. That said though, this year we had a very sociable time at Vape Jam and Vaper Expo too.

doing each other. There’s a few people who are good at what they do, but they’re a tiny minority.

Vapers aren’t someone’s personal army.

J: Advocacy needs to change in the UK, doing the

18 - IOS

Has The Ideal Ohm Show turned out as you’d expected when you

started?

C: I expected we’d do a few shows, find that there’d be more people on the show than viewers and we’d go back to doing whatever normal people do on a Thursday night. Reality was very different, fortunately.

J: I had no expectations going into IOS. I’d been on and watched Plumes of Hazard plus they’ve helped us no end but we always thought a UK Live show would have to be different. For me, the show is more than I’d hoped for. Viewers have been so kind and supportive. I also couldn’t work with a better team of co-hosts.

RG: To be honest I had no idea what to expect. I just went along for the ride. I made new friends with the co-hosts and had fun which is why we do it every week.

RV: I think the beauty of the show is that it has no agenda. It has a massive community built around it

decent people who poke fun at this strange vaping thing we all do. But what’s probably true is they watch us to see us make idiots of ourselves, which we are happy to do every week. Either way, we have a laugh and we bring some relevant content into the show and people seem to enjoy it, which is what it’s all about.

RV: It does amuse me immensely that people tune in to the show when they could be watching Pacino play Corleone or whichever European game is on…

I think the difference between putting on Netflix and this show is that by watching the show you are taking part in it. You can comment in chat during or after the show, help decide the content of the show or even come and see us in person at a vape event.

C: People can’t be watching for a top quality production, that’s for sure. We try to keep it fast, fun and fairly educational, and people like that. It’s testament that our Facebook group is very active for a show of its scale.

which I know the guys are very proud of. I don’t think anyone would have predicted its impact but equally the guys went in with no expectations and just wanted to enjoy themselves which I can tell you first hand they are.

Why do you think people watch the show?

Richard just joined The Ideal Ohm Show. How do you think he’s settling in?

RG: Richard is great. As he’s only two or three shows in, I think he’s done amazingly well, and has slotted in like a new friend sitting around your table down the pub. If people haven’t seen it yet, he has a wicked

J: I think people watch the show because they feel

sense of humour that will come out more as he gets

part of the experience, four friends talking, drinking

more shows under his belt.

and laughing, it’s like a good night out. I could be totally f**king wrong though.

RV: Who?

RG: I think people watch the show because we are

C: Richard knows the game and he’s good at it.

IOS - 19

Available at

UK Distribution, contact: distrib@hovlondon.co.uk / 020 35834070

That he brings an additional element in his being a

it. I’m not sure if people think we are biased about

reviewer isn’t the key - it’s that he’s got an educated

anything we do get free but that certainly isn’t the

opinion and knows how to put it across.

case. If we like something we say we do and if we don’t we’ll say why. IOS CAN’T BE BOUGHT.

J: When we started looking for a fourth, after Dean gave his notice in, the list of possibilities was fairly large but in time we realised what we wanted above anything was someone we could work with, who understands the ethos and doesn’t take life too

Who would be your dream guest on the show?

seriously. Richard fit the bill for all of us, there was no argument about that. I’m pleased to say that we

C: Raven Vapes - that is all.

were absolutely correct, he’s an Ohmie through and through.

J: Vape wise we’ve had all my heroes on (not bad eh?) and now I’d count them among friends, to be honest. So in answer to your question it would be a

What misconceptions do people have about being on IOS?

comedian or a writer, I’ll take Louis CK.

RG: Somebody like Stephen Fry who doesn’t vape and sees the world and all of its flaws.

RV: I think like a lot of things in vaping, people don’t realise what goes into the end product. From the

RV: In vaping terms we have had a lot of the best

outside in, you see four guys who commit an hour

guests already which is amazing. It might be

and a half to sit down once a week. The reality is

interesting to watch Leonardo DiCaprio’s eyes widen

that we work really hard before and after the show,

as Ric shows him the mod showcase section! There is

planning it, coming up with content, booking guests

also that ‘bubbly’ German guy on Gogglebox…

and also administrating the Facebook page.

C: That people think we get kickbacks or loads of money for doing the show – we don’t. If we monetised our channel, we’d be better off financially

What setup do you recommend to smokers and new vapers?

doing a paper-round once a week.

J: The Aspire Plato is perfect for new vapers or J: People think we don’t plan each show but we do.

smokers. The choice of coils and a replaceable 18650

Some might think that we think a lot of ourselves or

gives it a clear edge from the closed systems.

we’re something special, nope we really don’t, if you see us at a meet, come over, grab a chair and chill,

RG: Cleito with stock 0.4 coils and any of the mods

we’re all in this together.

that hit about 50w. There’s such a range of easily affordable and good quality straight out of the box

RG: People may think we get loads of free stuff. This really isn’t the case and certainly isn’t why we do

22- IOS

setups now.

RV: I recommend the Innokin Endura T22, I’ve

the Axis Kamagong wood mod back in the day… Like

already converted 4 smokers with that kit. It has a

Ric the other side of vaping has cost me more. My

good capacity mouth to lung tank, and a long lasting

review camcorder cost me a fair few hundred.

battery. Sadly, there is no miracle kit that works for everyone, nor a juice that is universally loved, so it’s

C: Three or four times I’ve spent about £500 on a

trial and error.

mod and £150 on an atty. Once traded a Railbox for a driptip, but that’s another story…

C: Nautilus X and an eLeaf of some kind. Hardest part will be finding the right flavour, but stick with it and

J: The most expensive thing I’ve bought is an Artisan

you’ll find it soon enough.

Mod. Richard (the modder behind it) is a personal friend and therefore you’ll have to just make up what you think I paid.

What does your family think of the show?

RG: I decided I would buy tools instead of high end mods as it keeps me modding, so in a sense my garage is filled with vaping tools, milling machine

RG: They think we are all mad. They are correct.

and 3D printers.

RV: The wife is very supportive of the show and

from typical Thursday night activity.

What is it about vaping that keeps you interested?

C: They have no idea I’m doing it, which is probably

C: New toys are part of the interest, but it’s mostly

not a bad thing. Then again, they knew I smoked so it

down to the community side of things that keeps

won’t be too bad if or when they find out.

me going. I’ve been so fortunate to make some great

everything else I do. The rest of the family and friends can’t get their head around it at all, but I guess it’s far

friends that happen to be vapers as well.

J: My wife has been incredibly supportive of the whole thing; she even watches a bit every week even

J: The innovation from the cottage industry and

though she doesn’t vape. My parents and brother

modders, the people in the community.

have no real idea I do the show lol.

RG: Innovation and range of products is amazing. The industry is moving so fast now. I think the biggest

What’s the most you have spent on one vaping item?

thing for me is seeing the mods people are making and knowing I had a small part in helping them create not only mods but an understanding of how they work so no rules will ever stop them making a

RV: I’m kind of a big deal so tend to not need to buy

mod.

my own gear. I paid a fair whack for my Lost Vape DNA200 Squonker. I remember splurging a chunk on

RV: To be honest, vaping alone doesn’t hold my

IOS -23

attention. Before I started my YouTube review

of us started because we knew somebody and now

channel I had already reached a plateau, I had no

there are almost 3 million vapers in the UK.

friends that smoked or vaped and there were only so many ways I could rebuild my Kayfun. I decided

RV: Honestly I have no idea. The weight of positive

that I enjoyed it but needed ways to diversify it, so

science could crush the opaque opinion of society

making videos about vaping and joining in with

and government leading to a golden age, or the

the community coupled with the ever changing

giant corporations that control mankind could

landscape of vaping is what keeps my interest.

take it under its wing and make it something very ponderous indeed.

Where do you see vaping going in the future?

C: The beginner gear will begin to improve at a rapid rate and we’ll move away from the cigalikes and CE4’s. It’ll take time for all the stock that’s out there to move, but it’ll happen.

J: I think vaping in the main will be closed systems sold by big tobacco/pharma. The TPD and FDA legislation is the pause in the market they needed to catch up, in my humble opinion. I do think us hobby vapers will still be OK, but we’ll just find new ways to

What do you think of the vaping sub-cultures?

carry on.

RG: I find them interesting. Coil art, tricking and RG: I think that things will pretty much stay the same

building monster mods is all fun and that’s what it’s

in my social bubble because none of us will stop

supposed to be. I hear people saying it’s stupid but

vaping due to unfair capitalist rules. I think anyone

honestly, to the non-smoker, vaping on an Ego looks

who wants to start vaping and doesn’t know anybody

stupid. If any of the sub-cultures interest you, go for

will have a harder time of it, but that said, nearly all

it. At the end of the day, you’re not smoking so it’s all

24- IOS

brilliant.

RV: Judging by the reaction I get out and about, I RV: Like all walks of life it takes all sorts; I found a

would say not great. People think it is just as bad as

group today dedicated to vaping without the lights

smoking and a very silly idea – an opinion that’s sadly

on. I think it is healthy and allows for a more inclusive

perpetuated by mainstream media.

hobby than many others.

C: Most people don’t have a clue what to think, and C: No-one is better than anyone else, and as long as

a large majority of vapers look at the hobbyist vaper

you’re not smoking, go for it. If you believe you need

as being a bit mad. Once you scratch the surface

to look down on another group of people who vape

though, you begin to realise there’s a lot more going

in a style different to yours, then you need to have a

on in vaping.

quiet word with yourself. 200 watts doesn’t make you better than 16 watts, and your £1000 setup doesn’t

J: Most people either don’t know what vaping is or

make you better than a £20 setup. It just makes you

think we’re tw*ts in the same vein as Apple users and

different.

Games Workshop enthusiasts.

J: Vaping sub-cultures can and will always exist, but

RG: I think they probably look at vaping and think it’s

they’ve no need to argue. The industry can tear itself

stupid and just the same as smoking. It’s our job to

apart with these things or remember one thing: ‘no

help them understand why we do it and explain how

one cares how you vape and no one wants to watch

much healthier it is than smoking.

you do it’.

To catch the guys in action, check out The Ideal Ohm Show every Thursday at 9pm GMT. If you’re late

What do you think the current public opinion of vapers is?

to The Ideal Ohm Show party, you can view missed episodes on their YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/c/TheIdealOhmShow.

IOS - 25

Derby’s first vape lounge to launch e-liquid range

Blake said: “Growing the lounge side of the business came gradually. Customers should

The increasing popularity of vaping means,

be able to check out goods leisurely. It

that to stand out from the crowd, you’ve

doesn’t matter if a customer spends £1

got to be one very special outfit. Enter

or £50. I would rather see less money in

Vapey Jacks, nestled in the heart of Derby

the till and more smiley faces of satisfied

on Green Lane.

customers.”

Vapey Jacks is the byword for an

Having worked in customer services since

understated cool vaping experience. Enter

he was a teenager, Blake knows how to

the store and you’ll be forgiven for feeling

treat clients and always strives to keep

as if you’ve walked into an Amsterdam bar.

them happy. Their ethical ethos of avoiding

By taking inspiration from the cosy brown

the hard sell and giving customers time to

cafés in the Netherlands channelling laid-

think and explore their store, is reflected in

back, lived-in vibes, Vapey Jacks have

healthy sales.

created something unique in Derby. It’s all comfy sofas to lounge on, clustered chairs

Vapey Jacks attracts vapers from all ends of

for communal chats and chilled out tunes

the spectrum. You could be a newbie vaper

which make you forget about going home

researching vaping to quit smoking, or

altogether.

you could be a seasoned vaper who wants to straighten kanthal for parallel builds;

Sibling owners Blake and Mark Lowis

whatever your query, guaranteed Vapey

opened Vapey Jacks one year ago, with

Jacks have the answer to it.

a vision of bringing the first vape bar to the city of Derby. Now, it is the go-to spot

Vapey Jacks is known for its quality

for vapers and non-vapers alike. It is a

e-liquids, mods, dreamy milkshakes and

place that’s as refreshing as your ice-cool

coffees that don’t cost the earth. After

menthol vape; in wanting to step away

recently announcing a new coffee flavour

from the sterile ‘mobile phone shop’ feel,

on Facebook, and listening to numerous

of glass cabinets, no-touch and hard-sell

customer requests, Vapey Jacks created

policy, the Lowis brothers have created a

a brand new flavour profile. (Do check

unique, comfortable space. You can go in-

out their newly invented toffee-nut salted

store and ask for vaping advice, safe in the

caramella, which consists of two shots of

knowledge that you won’t walk away with

coffee poured on a dollop of caramel sauce,

anything you don’t need.

topped with textured milk with a drizzle of butterscotch.)

2626- vapey jacks

It’s certainly an exciting time for Vapey Jacks. From a team of three, they’re in the

And with Christmas around the corner,

process of recruiting to accommodate busy

Vapey Jacks have a very special treat

sales. In addition to being store managers

lined up, consisting of premium reserve

of Vapey Jacks, the brothers also own DRB

juices, merchandise and the company’s

Liquids. It is under this umbrella company

first foray into tobacco flavoured e-liquid.

that Blake has overseen clever innovation

This exclusive three tier festive gift set

of a newly launched Horny Horse Sauce

celebrates the DRB brand and tells the

(HHS) e-liquid line. HHS is stocked in select

story of the company behind it.

stores across the country and Vapey Jacks are now in talks with suppliers from Europe

For more information about Vapey Jacks,

keen to stock the tasty HHS juices.

or wholesale enquiries, please email vapeyjacks@gmail.com now, or pop in-

Creating HHS has been a labour of love;

store for the full Vapey Jacks experience.

the flavour profiles only came to be after

Where else are you going to get a massive

months of research, testing, tasting,

grinning gorilla (fake but totally cool)

steeping and more testing. Six delicious

greeting you at the entrance?

flavours made the cut; zingy Lime Meringue Tart, cheeky Blueberry Muffin, dreamy Banoffee Cream Pie, tropical Peach Melba, moreish Fruit Salad, succulent Strawberries with Bubble-gum Sauce, and delicately nutty Buttercream with Praline.

vapey jacks - 27 27

IBVTA challenge proposed restrictions on vape advertising

children or young people taking up vaping. Real results showed advertising had a positive effect on smoking levels in England and Scotland, with the lowest smoking levels ever recorded.

The Independent British Vape Trade Association (IBVTA) has challenged the Committee of Advertising Practises (CAP) new guidance for proposed restrictions on advertising vaping products.

There are still over seven million smokers in England alone. Further restriction on advertising in the UK will deprive these people of access to valuable information on alternatives to vaping.

The IBVTA believe CAP will impose unnecessary restrictions on their members’ legitimate business activities, and make it harder for smokers to find out about products that are at least 95% less harmful than the tobacco they currently smoke.

Fraser Cropper, Chairman of IBVTA said: “These new advertising restrictions are a result of the UK Government implementing the TPD in the form of the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations...

We believe there are no grounds to justify these

Existing CAP guidance is supported by a broad range of interested parties, from health professionals to industry insiders and vapers themselves.

proposed restrictions. Critically, we are deeply concerned that these restrictions will further entrench the dominant position of the tobacco industry by making it increasingly difficult for the

The general consensus is that people are happy to advertise responsibly since there is no such evidence to show the current advertising legislation is having a negative impact. Existing regulations are working

legitimate vape industry to sensibly promote their businesses and the products they manufacture and sell; products that are at least 95% less harmful than tobacco.�

contrary to suggestions that vaping is acting as a gateway to smoking for non-smokers. This claim is simply untrue. Figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) show that 99.9% of vapers are adult current or former smokers. One major plus is that thousands of smokers are switching to vaping whilst there is no evidence of non-smokers taking up

These are sentiments seconded by the UK vaping industry. Whilst many in the industry agree certain legislation within the TPD is good for business and that it protects the integrity of the industry, almost all involved believe legislation surrounding advertising is damaging and ultimately short sighted.

vaping.

It is encouraging to see the IBVTA speaking on Crucially Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) noted current advertising legislation was not leading to

28 - NEWS

behalf of their members and for those from the wider vaping industry and community. For more

information on the IBVTA or for membership

party line is the fear that tobacco companies could

information, head to their website www.ibvta.org.uk

infiltrate proceedings as part of the press pack and

now.

unduly influence decision makers, potentially even bully them to suit their own agenda.

Secret meetings mar WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control COP7

Whilst VapeLyfe Magazine appreciates that some aspects of government business do need embargo, an international treaty which impacts the global community should be transparent, easily accessible and open for discussion.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) held their

John Britton (Professor of Epidemiology and Director

seventh Framework Convention on Tobacco Control

at UK Centre for Tobacco & Alcohol Studies, Faculty

(FCTC) on 7 November 2016. The six-day conference

of Medicine & Health Sciences) said: “In my view the

took place at the India Expo Centre, Uttar Pradesh

press should be present, and if that means one or

Delhi, with delegates flying in from all around the

two people from tobacco companies sneaking in

world to discuss protocol concerning regulation of

behind a press badge, so be it.”

tobacco products.

Banning press augments the disingenuous approach The Indian government and Convention Secretariat

of WHO, who view e-cigarettes as a threat to health.

were the co-organisers of the meetings, which saw

This is especially worrying, considering the thousands

presence from the WHO FCTC’s 180 parties who were

of lives that are at stake. Every year, around 100,000

in attendance for the course of the convention.

smokers in the UK die from smoking related causes and around half of all regular cigarette smokers will

A major talking point which overshadowed

eventually be killed by their addiction. It is common

proceedings, was the bizarre exclusion of journalists

sense and in the interests of public health to actively

keen to report on one of the key events of the year

promote not only e-cigarettes, but also non-tobacco

on tobacco control. As the news unfolded on social

and NRT products as viable alternatives to smoking.

media, journalists were seen being ejected from the main conference, some being escorted off the

E-cigarettes are already used widely in the UK

premises in what appeared to be a heavy-handed

as a tool to stop smoking, and the key goal is to

approach reminiscent of a draconian authoritarian

prevent death from inhaling tobacco smoke. WHO’s

exercise.

approach is flawed, in that it strongly adheres to the misconception that e-cigarettes are a tobacco

This lack of transparency and zero scrutiny, whereby

product.

parties could discuss and determine the narrative of policies behind closed doors, where millions of lives

Professor Britton said: “If the Framework Convention

would be affected was unethical and morally wrong.

decide to make regulation of e-cigarettes, that reduces their availability and affordability, if it makes

Why were journalists excluded from COP7? The

that a priority of global tobacco control policy, that

NEWS - 29

would be a major step back and major hindrance to

available everywhere. This alarmist rhetoric helps no-

public health. It will cost thousands and thousands

one, with potential vapers being put off e-cigarettes

of lives.”

and who may well continue to smoke tobacco cigarettes, thus endangering their life even further.

VapeLyfe Magazine believes regulations which make e-cigarettes less accessible, more expensive, less

COP7 has been a disappointing event and there

consumer friendly or that hinder innovation, will

are areas for development and a definite need

make tobacco cigarettes seem the better, easier

for scrutiny of medical evidence before the next

option. The direct and devastating impact of this

meeting. Switzerland is the location for the next

would be an increase of cancer and related deaths

Framework Convention. 2018 is the year. Two years

including premature deaths and lung disease. With

will fly by. In the meantime, stay strong, watch this

e-cigarettes being lauded for being the less harmful

space, and we’d be keen to know if you were at the

alternative to smoking (Public Health England

Conference of the Parties 7 (COP7). What was your

say e-cigarettes are around 95% less harmful than

experience of it? Please email info@vapelyfemag.

tobacco), it is truly shocking to think of carrying on as

co.uk and one of our journalists will get back to you.

we are, will ultimately result in the death of millions.

Professor Britton said: “We have to adopt alternative strategies. We may not be fully aware of the longterm effects of those strategies, but common sense dictates, that if you have a safer form of nicotine, that smokers find acceptable, make the switch. Yes, we should be looking at long term hazards very carefully.”

WHO have called for countries to ban vaping in public places where smoking is not allowed. Citing fears of passive vaping, the ban would outlaw e-cigarette use in hospitals, schools and public transport. It is difficult to understand how banning a safer alternative makes sense, when the product with higher risks attached – the tobacco cigarette – is

30- NEWS

aaron bierbert director of ‘a billion lives’ exclusive Q & A It is rare that a self-taught film director’s debut can simultaneously ignite a firestorm of controversy and receive critical acclaim with his first feature — but Milwaukee native Aaron Biebert has done just that with his new documentary film ‘A Billion Lives’.

Winner of two top honours including the Supreme Jury Prize and Best Director at the Melbourne Documentary Film Festival 2016, Biebert’s film exposes how pharmaceutical companies, antismoking advocacy groups and tobacco companies are to blame for the disinformation, over-regulation, and banning of vapour technologies that are helping millions of smokers quit worldwide.

VapeLyfe Magazine caught up with Aaron to chat about the vaping industry, how ‘A Billion Lives’ came to be, and what he’d do if he was president of the USA.

How did the award winning documentary feature film ‘A Billion Lives’ come to be?

After one of my colleagues died from lung cancer, I started to learn more about smoking addiction, the difficulty of quitting, and what therapies work. I never understood how someone who was dying of lung cancer could keep smoking. I initially thought that vaping looked like some hipster way to keep smoking indoors. Years later, some friends educated me more on the topic. They sounded like conspiracy theorists with talk about how big business and government interests were interfering with this cheap, drug free alternative that is helping many people quit smoking. When I found out that a billion people were projected to die from smoking this century, I knew this topic deserved a look. If there was indeed something going on, it would be the story of a lifetime. Telling the public what we found, is what ‘A Billion Lives’ is all about.

aaron biebert q&A-33

It is interesting that you neither vape or smoke, yet you have produced an incisive, intelligent documentary on the very industry that you wish to save. How many hours of research do you think you’ve undertaken in the creation of ‘A Billion Lives’? Was it difficult learning everything from scratch?

We spent about three months researching everything

You attended the European premiere in Poland and most recently, Milwaukee.

What has the reception been like towards the film? Has that surprised you?

The reception has been better than I expected. Our worst review was a 4 out of 5. We’ve won awards on four continents. Governments have been changing.

Media has been supportive. Basically it’s been a dream scenario. I am very surprised.

before committing to the topic. We didn’t want to be on the wrong side of history. Thankfully the information at its core is quite simple: smoke causes cancer, vaping doesn’t cause cancer.

How did you feel when you saw the film along with audience members?

It was fun to hear people laughing where I expected

What did you want to be when you were a child?

them too, and when I didn’t expect. There is one place in the movie that is quite gross. I still chuckle when I hear everyone’s reaction.

I wanted to be an architect. I loved the idea of creating functional works of art that would last.

Did you ever think you’d be a pro-vaping champion?

Never. However, I’ve always wanted to make a difference. Hopefully this film will help.

What is the best thing about what you do?

We’ve seen fans of ‘A Billion Lives’ tattoo themselves with the film’s logo, such is their belief in the cause and raising awareness of vaping. Did you ever think your film would impact on lives the way it is doing now?

I never thought people would permanently tattoo #ABillionLives on their bodies before seeing the

I get to meet a LOT of people, and see a lot of the

movie! It’s crazy! It was really inspiring though and

world. It’s really been a great experience.

motivated me to make the film even better.

And the worst thing about what you do?

The worst thing is when some of the people I try

What do you hope to achieve from ‘A Billion Lives’?

to help attack me because we’re not fast enough

I hope we can wake up the public, put pressure on

getting the film into their area, or because we don’t

governments, and help people understand how

put the movie out for free, which we can’t afford. It

difficult a situation it is for smokers. Many can’t just

disregards what we’re trying to do, and it hurts my

snap their fingers and quit. Hopefully it leads to more

morale. Luckily, 99% of people are very excited and

respect.

generous, and that gives me the inspiration needed to keep pushing.

34 - aaron biebert q&A

What are your plans for the next five years?

I need to spend more time with my family and give our team a break. We’re going to make more movies.

We’ll see how this one goes.

If you were president of the USA, what are the top three things you’d do?

I would replace the leadership at the FDA and CDC. I would give a speech explaining what tobacco harm reduction is and encourage smokers to consider using vapor technology. I would start a new political party focused on reforming government and limiting the influence of big money on politics.

Social justice is clearly one of your beliefs. Are there any other passions you’d like to turn your attention to, for the greater good?

I’m concerned about our food system, medical system, and government. I’ll probably focus on them for a while. I might do a sports documentary somewhere along the way.

It was great chatting to Aaron. To find out more about the fantastic work undertaken by Aaron and his team, and ‘A Billion Lives’, please go to website www.abillionlives.com now.

aaron biebert q&A-35

Expect the unexpected with Vape Bar… inside Cash Generator

Darren is an ex-smoker. Having smoked around 45 cigarettes a day, he discovered vaping via Facebook and decided to give it a try. He successfully quit smoking within a month of trying his first e-cig, and has been vaping for two years.

Some might say that a Vape Bar within a

Have you ever walked past a shop and had

Cash Generator might lack knowledge and

to double take when you thought you saw

customer service – not so at the store in

something totally unexpected? That was us

Harpurhey. Darren was employed because of

a few weeks ago, when we spotted a vape

his extensive vaping knowledge and has been

store… inside a Cash Generator in

at the Vape Bar for three months now.

Harpurhey, Manchester. We nearly walked on by, but minds working overtime, we stepped

When asked about their favourite part of the

inside. Why? A Cash Generator is the last

job, the communal opinion was that they

place we’d ever expect to see a Vape Bar.

loved the vaping community. The passionate

Interest piqued, we just had to find out the

vapers have made some great friends through

story behind this bizarre but cool set-up.

vaping and regard all their customers as friends. So much so

The brain behind the

that they are now

Vape Bar operation

planning a vaping

is Damien Wathey

BBQ for everyone

(assistant manager

on their Facebook

at Cash Generator)

group!

with help from cool sidekick Darren

So, here’s the million-

Hatch (sales assistant

dollar question – how

at Vape Bar).

did the shop come to be?

Damien was the driving force behind

After Damien was

getting the Vape

introduced to vaping

Bar inside the Cash Generator store. Having

he had the idea to stock e-cigs in the shop. As

smoked for over 15 years, Damien instantly

his passion and interest grew, he decided he

took to vaping, falling in love with the

wanted to get out and see what else was on

technical side, building his own mods and

offer in the area. After plenty of mystery shops

discovering new premium juices along the

and hundreds of juices being sampled, he

way.

chatted to other shop owners for information

36- vape bar in cash generator

on mods and rigs, just to see what kind of help was out there. After being somewhat

It is evident from speaking to Darren that he

disappointed by the offerings of the other

loves his job. Friendly and happy to help, he

local shops, Darren decided that there was a

is consistently keen to advise customers and

significant need to offer premium products

chat about new juice lines. He is now using

and excellent customer service to the vaping

his extensive knowledge in the industry to

community.

help others and share best practice.

One of the issues Damien came across whilst

With the addition of a new dedicated

visiting other vape shops, was the level of

member of staff, the Vape Bar team

unease experienced by newbie vapers. The

embarked on building their social media

store seemed rather intimidating for new

presence, to ultimately offer help and advice

vapers to enter. The genius of the Vape Bar,

online. They take customer service very

is that it’s a shop within another shop. This

seriously and offer advice remotely to vapers

‘soft’ introduction doesn’t

who cannot get to the store.

feel heavy handed, so you can pop in and browse

One of Damien’s main aims is to

at leisure, without feeling

educate and inform on the safety and

the obligatory need to

quality of products bought online,

buy something. The store

or from an unauthorised seller. It is

also picks up a lot of

common to find a steady stream of

‘passing trade’ this way,

customers instore asking for repairs

as people in the Cash

or advice on their vaping gear, which

Generator part of the

Damien actively encourages. He does

store are curious about

after all, love to help.

vaping stock.

For more information on the Vape Bar After just a month into the venture, Damien

in Cash Generator or wholesale enquiries

had produced a business that had very high

please go to Facebook page

standards. Specialising in rigs and mods and

www.facebook.com/groups/vapebar14 now.

premium juices, Damien’s motto was simple.

He didn’t sell something he wouldn’t vape

What is the most unique spot you’ve seen

himself.

a vape store? Why not get in touch with us and let us know about that mad, rad, totally

Damien’s next move was to employ a vaping

cool vape store you’ve seen. Email info@

enthusiast with a good knowledge and

vapelyfemag.co.uk now or let us know via

passion for the industry, to help him deliver

Twitter using hashtag #MadRadVapeStore.

the excellent customer service he was

You never know, it might be featured in an

striving for. That was when Darren joined the

upcoming issue of VapeLyfe Magazine.

business.

vape bar in cash generator - 37

Vape store spotlight: Just Vapours Hyde Just Vapours Hyde is a vape store on Clarendon Place in the heart of Hyde. It is owned by Joe Chesworth and Anna Randall, who have been serving the vaping community since May 2013. VapeLyfe Magazine

What is so great about your vape store?

I’m here to help, so if someone comes in knowing nothing about vaping, slightly nervous about stopping smoking, I can help and advise them about where to start. I also love it when a customer comes in asking for something specific or a bit unusual. I’ll go out of my way to find it for them, and I always find it. I also offer a loyalty card, rewarding loyal patrons for their custom. And it’s a friendly place, we’re always welcoming and happy to give advice.

industry, the best thing about being a vape store

How do you think the vaping industry has changed since you opened your store?

owner, and what he’s vaping at the moment.

The vaping industry has become a lot more

caught up with Joe to chat about the vaping

competitive, that’s for sure! There have been three

What was the reason behind opening the store?

I wanted to stop smoking. I first got into antismoking therapy ‘Bio Com Therapy’ more commonly known as Bioresonance therapy, with my mum back in 2007. That was how I first gave up smoking.

I had the treatment and stopped immediately. This sparked a keen interest and passion to help others to stop smoking. So we invested in the equipment and the training, but unfortunately we couldn’t get enough interest. Then one day my sister rocked up with an e-cig. Admittedly I had started smoking again since the Bio Com Therapy and as with most people, the e-cig offered a feasible way to stop smoking for good.

What is the best thing about your job?

Apart from the freedom your own business brings, it has got to be seeing the difference in my customers.

I see people come into the shop wheezing and clearly suffering from the effects of heavy smoking.

After just a few months I can see the improvements.

It’s a great thing to see.

38 - just vapours hyde

other vaping stores open on this street since we opened. One interesting development in the industry is how e-liquids have become something of a fashion statement or a fad. You have your solid juices (your staples if you like) but then there are the flash, funky lines.

Where do you see the vaping industry in 10 years’ time?

I’d have to say I can see the industry exploding! This worries me too, as I wonder with ever increasing interest in the industry, what restrictions the government might put in place. Obviously, we’ve already seen the likes of the TPD… what’s around the

which you can vape apart or mix together. I’m hearing they’re already sold out online. I’ve also got Quickie Milk and Chocolate juice, which I think is the best chocolate milk juice out there. The others seem to taste quite ‘chemically’ but this one is super chocolatey, smooth and just pretty perfect actually. I have 100ml for £35.00 in stock.

corner? An Australian style ban? I seriously hope not!

What are you vaping at the moment?

I’ve got three on the go. Laffy by Clown Liquids tastes of grape and blueberry taffy. It’s absolutely delicious.

Then there’s Lemon Tart by Dinner Lady, which is spot on. It’s bitter and sweet at the same time, and tastes exactly like a lemon tart. I actually tried this one at the Birmingham Expo. Dinner Ladies had a stand there and they even had the actual puddings out next to the liquids so you could taste how spot on they were. My third one is Cereal Trip by Bad Drip Labs which tastes of fruity cereal.

Are there any upcoming juices which you’re excited about?

I’ve got Fusion box by Dropsicle coming very soon.

It’s basically two different ice lolly liquids, a mixture of cherry and raspberry, and strawberry and kiwi,

What mods are hot right now? Is there anything you can recommend that’s good value for money?

I’ve got a new mini box mod in, which is the iNano Eleaf 650mAh. They’re the smallest around. I’ve got some Kangertech Top EVOD starter kits 650mAh with charger leads and a free juice all for £17. There’s also the Kangertech Subox Mini kit 50W 4.5 ML subtank mini £56 kit with battery. They’re pretty solid starter kits.

For more information about Just Vapours go to Facebook page www.facebook.com/justvapourshyde or call 0161 964 4638 now.

just vapours hyde -39

VapeLyfe Magazine atte earlier this year and ha caught our eye. PS if you s in this cool collage, Twee we’ll give you a me

40- Vaper Expos

nded both Vaper Expos ad a blast. Here’s what spot your stall or product et us @vapelyfemag1 and ention in issue two.

Vaper Expos - 41

Launch Competition

We are running a fantastic to issue It’s

our

competition

celebrate of

the

VapeLyfe

festive

edition,

first Magazine.

and

because

it’s Christmas, we’d love to give you guys a surprise treat. We’ve got a fabulous collection of tasty e-liquids, just for you. Sneak peek flavours include delicious desserts, fantastic fruit, and sensational cereals.

For a chance to win this great Christmas haul, subscribe to

our

magazine

on

www.vapelyfemagazine.co.uk

by Thursday 8th December 2016. The winner will be announced on the following day, and the prize posted out at the earliest opportunity, so you hopefully receive it in time for Christmas. Good luck to all entering!

PS whoever says things like “it’s the taking part that counts” and “there are no losers” is obviously lying. Don’t worry if you don’t win this time, because we have plenty of competitions coming up, so keep your eyes peeled!

Reviews We have a review price list; if you’d like your products reviewed, please email info@vapelyfemag.co.uk using hashtag #ReviewRequest in the subject heading.

Each product is allocated to a member of our review team, who will dedicate time getting to know your product (2 days for an e-liquid, 7 days for an atty or mod).

For this reason, we cannot do last minute reviews, as we don’t think you can get a clear picture after just a few puffs. Please note – we only give honest reviews.

If you’ve paid for a review and we think the product is good or bad (we prefer good, because it’s not fun vaping crap), we will say it how it is. Please don’t take offence by this, we just really value truth and integrity. You will be notified of a publication date, which is usually within 1 month from the review date.

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magazine