Link Telecom Enterprise Limited, the business in Thornton Heath, received the penalty for selling a vape to an under-18 and breaching the Tobacco and Related Products regulations.
Croydon Council handed the maximum fine of £2,500 for the sale of a vape to a child at the Brigstock Road shop.
The company was fined a further £20,000 for two offences of stocking vapes that failed to display health warnings and the supplier’s contact details in Great Britain.
Additionally, they were ordered to pay the council’s full costs, amounting to £5,008.13.
The company was not represented at the court hearing, resulting in their conviction in absence.
The court found the recent change in ownership of the business to be a “cynical” attempt to abuse the court process.
The business owner now has six months to settle the fine.
The legal action against Link Telecom Enterprise Limited is part of Croydon Council’s ongoing effort to clamp down on illegal traders in the borough.
Executive Mayor of Croydon, Jason Perry, said: “I am proud that we have the best Trading Standards team in London because they work hard to protect residents and businesses against illegal operators.
“The legal action is part of the council’s crackdown on rogue businesses that fail to follow legislation which can put residents’ health at risk, as well as harming legitimate businesses’ trade.”
“Our Trading Standards team do really important work to help keep us all safe.
“Residents are vital in helping the team, so if anyone thinks a shop is selling restricted products to those underage or illegal vapes, please get in touch.”
The council encourages businesses to reach out for information to deter underage sales or other Trading Standards assistance.
They also invite residents to report any suspected illegal activity from a shop.
Croydon’s Trading Standards team won Team of the Year at the London Trading Standards Awards 2024, held in November last year.
