Journal Article

DKFZ-2025-01964

http://join2-wiki.gsi.de/foswiki/pub/Main/Artwork/join2_logo100x88.png Spatial distribution of e-cigarette vending machines: a case study from Germany.

Alemu, S. (First author)DKFZ* ; Mons, U.DKFZ* ; Schaller, K.DKFZ* ; Baltaci, E.DKFZ* ; Hoe, C. (Last author)DKFZ*

2025
BMJ Publ. Group London

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Please use a persistent id in citations: doi:10.1136/tc-2025-059546

Abstract: Germany has the highest density of cigarette vending machines globally, and the recent proliferation of electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) vending machines raises growing public health concerns, particularly regarding youth exposure. However, limited data exist on their spatial distribution and contextual placement. This study presents the first spatial analysis of e-cigarette vending machines in Germany, using the Berlin-based company 'Vape4Me' as a case study.Geo-referenced data on e-cigarette vending machine locations were extracted from the Vape4Me website and cross-validated using Google Maps and Microsoft Bing Maps. Spatial analyses-including density mapping, proximity assessments and co-location analysis-were conducted using ArcGIS Pro, R and OpenRouteService. Associations with population size were examined through regression analysis. Selected sites in Cologne and Wiesbaden were visited for on-site validation.A total of 316 (Vape4Me) e-cigarette vending machines were identified in Germany, with the highest concentration in Berlin. Machine density was significantly associated with population size, with a 3.24% increase per 1000 additional residents. In Berlin, vending machines were frequently co-located with hospitality and commercial establishments and rarely placed near outdoor or public utility areas. On-site inspections revealed that machines offered disposable e-cigarettes for around €10, with basic age verification.The integration of e-cigarette vending machines into everyday environments-combined with continuous advertising and 24/7 access-normalises e-cigarette use and poses challenges to tobacco control efforts. Stronger regulations, including bans on the sale of cigarettes and e-cigarettes via vending machines, are urgently needed to protect youth from early nicotine exposure.

Keyword(s): Advertising and Promotion ; Denormalization ; Electronic nicotine delivery devices ; Public policy

Note: #EA:C170#LA:C170# / epub / Short report

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Contributing Institute(s):

1. Policy und Implementierungsforschung in der Krebsprävention (C170)
2. Primäre Krebsprävention (C120)
3. M050 Krebsprävention und WHO-Kollaborationszentrum für Tabakkontrolle (M050)

Research Program(s):

1. 313 - Krebsrisikofaktoren und Prävention (POF4-313) (POF4-313)

Appears in the scientific report 2025

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Database coverage:
; Clarivate Analytics Master Journal List ; Current Contents - Clinical Medicine ; Current Contents - Social and Behavioral Sciences ; Ebsco Academic Search ; Essential Science Indicators ; IF >= 5 ; JCR ; National-Konsortium ; SCOPUS ; Science Citation Index Expanded ; Social Sciences Citation Index ; Web of Science Core Collection

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