Republic Technologies is set to remove all Strike Anywhere match formats from its range ahead of changes in EU regulations this spring.

This includes products available under Swan Vestas and Cook’s Matches brands, which will switch to Safety Matches from the end of March / early April.

Gavin Anderson, general sales manager for Republic Technologies (UK), said: “We are proactively making this move ahead of EU regulations, which will result in the chemicals required to produce Strike Anywhere Matches no longer being available after 31 May 2018.

“We strive to deliver the best possible consumer experience, with high quality products that enable our retail and wholesale/cash & carry customers to drive sales from tobacco accessories.

“We have worked closely with our suppliers, taking a number of factors into account including environmental impact, customer feedback, safety and ongoing production costs; our customers remain our first priority.”

Over the coming weeks as the products are phased out, Republic Technologies will be communicating directly with its retail and wholesale/cash & carry customers to offer guidance on the change.