Coventry shop ordered to close for persistently selling illegal products

ARA Mini Market, located on Broomfield Road within Coventry, has been ordered to close for persistently selling illegal tobacco, illegal vapes, counterfeit goods.

An order was served on the store on Thursday 3 September. Coventry magistrates granted a three-month closure.

The Closure Order will remain in force until 11.59pm on 2 December 2026.

Working with Coventry Police, Coventry City Council's Trading Standards department applied for the court order to prevent people engaging in criminal activity and young people being exposed to harmful products.

Cllr John McNicholas, Community Safety and Cohesion, added: "We are increasing our efforts in partnership with the Police and the community to close shops that are illegally trading and this closure order is yet another positive step. I'm determined that we will reclaim our High Streets and shopping areas!

"I've said that we will continue to take a zero tolerance approach to any illegal activity by retailers, whether that's illegal tobacco, vape or any other counterfeit sales.

"Retailers who wish to break the law will be found out - and I encourage all our residents to report this criminal activity to help us stop commercial crime."

Coventry South Northwest Inspector Dal Bal said: "Working alongside Trading Standards, our teams have taken action to close these business premises. Our priority is to protect our communities and tackle those who repeatedly break the law by putting illegal profits ahead of the safety and wellbeing of the public.

"We are continually looking for ways to reduce crime and disorder and make Coventry a safer place. Locally we are focusing on reducing antisocial behaviour, shop theft, and working with Councillors to create long-term solutions. We encourage everyone on our patch to join us for a community meeting to discuss any crime concerns they might have."

Coventry Police are committed to keeping our communities safe and we will keep pursuing action against businesses linked to criminality.

If you have concerns about suspicious activity at a premises or building, let us know by calling 101.

To pass on information without leaving your details, you can speak anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Published: Monday, 7th September 2026