The Delaware County Tobacco Vape-Free Coalition, Delaware County Health Department (DCHD), Chimes Holcomb, the American Heart Association of Greater Philadelphia and Lansdowne Borough recently hosted “The Rise of Vape Shops and Tobacco Outlets in Delaware County: Spotlight Borough of Lansdowne” at the historic Twentieth Century Club in Lansdowne.
The event brought together public health experts, educators, law enforcement officials and community leaders to discuss the rapid growth of tobacco and vape retailers throughout Delaware County and the impact on local communities.
“This event highlighted a shared commitment to protecting the health and well-being of our children, said Jessica Pointer, president, Lansdowne Borough Council. “By bringing together public health experts, community leaders, educators and law enforcement, we are building the partnerships needed to make informed decisions and create healthier communities for generations to come.”
Research conducted by Latino Connection and the Delaware County Tobacco & Vape-Free Coalition found that the number of tobacco retailer outlets in Delaware County increased by 113% between 2018 and 2024, growing from 280 locations to 596. In Clifton Heights Borough alone — a community spanning just one square mile — there are currently five vape shops.
Additional findings showed that tobacco retailers are, on average, located 550 to 1,700 meters closer to public schools than to the general population. Enforcement violations tied to these businesses were also found to occur closer to schools.
“Tobacco and vape shops, which often sell other drugs and illegally promote dangerously addictive substances, need stronger regulation to protect public health and support economic development,” said Sean McCormick, Ph.D., chair, Delaware County Tobacco & Vape‑Free Coalition.
Coalition leaders noted that municipalities across Delaware County have increasingly reached out over the past year seeking guidance on how to address the growing number of vape and tobacco retailers in their communities.
Lansdowne Borough Mayor Magda Byrne explained that while municipalities cannot prohibit these businesses from setting up shop, they can establish safeguards designed to protect public health.
Jacob Zychick, senior regional lead, community impact, at the Heart Association of Greater Philadelphia, discussed how strengthened zoning ordinances can help prevent tobacco retailers from opening near schools, childcare centers, parks, playgrounds and community centers. Zychick and Pointer also highlighted Lansdowne’s community-driven approach to developing its ordinance, emphasizing extensive public feedback throughout the process.
DCHD’s Deputy Director Stephanie Reese also provided an update on the county’s health improvement plan efforts, ongoing community partnerships and support for municipalities working to address the rise of tobacco retailers.