Stop & Shop to Halt Cigarette Sales

Stop & Shop is set to stop selling all cigarettes and tobacco products at its 360 locations across the Northeast by August 31, as part of its commitment to community wellness. This decision, endorsed by health organizations including the American Cancer Society, follows similar moves by retailers like CVS, Walmart, and Target in previous years. The supermarket chain aims to support public health by providing resources for smoking cessation and promoting healthier choices, as stated by Stop & Shop President Gordon Reid. Additionally, the company will host cigarette buyback events on August 28 in Boston and Staten Island, offering incentives such as gift cards and healthy snacks to participants. The initiative aligns with data indicating that a significant number of smokers wish to quit but lack access to appropriate resources. Stop & Shop's actions reflect a broader trend among retailers prioritizing health over tobacco sales in response to growing public health concerns.