Since the introduction of a new system of purchases at vending machines at the beginning of the year that was intended to prevent minors from buying cigarettes, turnover at Austrian tobacco shops has plunged.

The Chamber of Commerce said that turnover from vending machines is down by 50 per cent since January 1. At the same time, turnover from sales during shop business hours has risen but not enough to compensate for the decline from the machines. Tobacco shops used to get 10 per cent of total turnover from purchases at their vending machines. At present, they are obtaining only five per cent of total turnover from them. The Chamber added that many smokers are buying cigarettes at service stations or public houses.
Under the newly introduced law, people must use a Bankomat debit card or a SMS to purchase cigarettes at vending machines. The debit cards have codes indicating whether their bearers are underage. However, many Austrians don't want to use debit cards at the machines and tourists do not have any that work at them. (CEN)