A Deceptive and Immature Company. - Electronic Cigarette Specialist VPZ Employee Review

2.0
30 Mar 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Sense of community with colleagues, and the public as you will see repeat custom. More than just retail- giving expert advice. The stores are generally relaxed in pace depending on location.

Cons

The company attempts to be perceived as a reputable shop anyone could go to for professional information about vaping, differing itself from other vape shops - yet it is ran just as poorly. Nepotism, infighting and mismanagement are commonplace. Head Office treat the workers who keep their business running, and are the face of the company to the public, like robots - forcing them to stand for an entire nine hour shift. Any kind of feedback given must be within 'corporate mandated positivity', you are not allowed to voice any options or feedback that Head Office deems as non-complacent. The job is very simple and doesn't require overcomplication, yet staff are treated as if it's the military. The disconnection between Head Office and how the shops operate day to day is staggering - and their greed is palpable. Targets are shifted so that staff never achieve their bonuses. They are more likely to move management from other stores than allow for career growth through promotion.

Explore other reviews about VPZ

4.0
3 Aug 2022
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Good environment and friendly colleagues

Cons

None that I can mention

2.0
31 Mar 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The team instore and in the cluster manager - decent discounts on product.

Cons

The compensation for this management role is significantly below industry standards, particularly given the level of responsibility involved. There is a high degree of micromanagement, and despite holding the title of Store Manager, there is very limited autonomy over fundamental responsibilities such as recruitment, timekeeping, and holiday approvals. In practice, the role operates more as supervisory position, with a primary focus on rota planning rather than broader store leadership and strategic decision-making. Performance targets are often unrealistic and lack alignment with typical retail trends—for example, expectations that December sales levels should not only be maintained but increased through quieter trading periods such as January. There are also concerns regarding working practices, including an expectation to open the store without appropriate compensation. When working alone, it can be difficult to take legally entitled breaks, with staff effectively required to remain on the shop floor to serve customers. Overall, the role offers limited opportunities for progression and can become repetitive over time. Career development and pay progression appear inconsistent and difficult to attain, regardless of performance. Good luck if you need to speak to someone in head office as unfortunately they’ll of either been sacked or quit due to ever mounting pressure felt at all aspects of the business

3
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