We Card Awareness Month: Enhancing Retailer Training Standards
Twenty Governors are backing 'We Card Awareness Month' this September.
The We Card Program, now celebrating its 29th year, is shining a light on the critical need for training among frontline store employees. This initiative is designed to improve adherence to federal, state, and local regulations regarding age-restricted products.
In a landscape where regulations are constantly changing, We Card stresses the importance of effective training programs. These initiatives prepare retail staff to confidently prevent underage purchases of tobacco, vaping, and nicotine pouch products. Doug Anderson, the president of We Card, remarked, "As laws evolve, our focus is on equipping employees with the knowledge they need to refuse sales to minors."
This year's Awareness Month has garnered significant support, with proclamations from 20 Governors reinforcing the message of responsible retailing for age-restricted products. Participating states include Arkansas, Connecticut, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Missouri, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Wisconsin, West Virginia, and Wyoming, with more states anticipated to join.
Adhering to FDA regulations and local laws is crucial for responsible retailing. The FDA conducts around 9,000 inspections each month to ensure retailers comply, while state governments also monitor adherence to youth access laws.
Lyle Beckwith, Senior Vice President of Government Relations for the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) and a founding board member of We Card, emphasized the organization's dedication: "Our goal is to ensure that all age-restricted products remain inaccessible to anyone under 21 years old." He added that well-trained staff members help stores build a trustworthy reputation within their communities.
Five Key Steps for Retailers During Awareness Month
To support We Card Awareness Month, retailers are encouraged to implement five key steps:
- Train all new hires and refresh veteran employees. Utilize comprehensive eLearning programs, whether developed internally or provided by We Card. Employees should be knowledgeable about FDA regulations and local laws, as well as practice carding techniques. When they know how to respectfully deny sales, compliance becomes much easier.
- Update store signage and training materials. Keeping information current strengthens the We Card message for both customers and employees. Retailers can order We Card's 2025 Kits and Age of Purchase Calendars.
- Evaluate employee performance through mystery shopping checks to ensure proper ID checking practices. We Card's ID Check-Up service employs individuals over 21 years old to verify compliance.
- Benchmark store practices against We Card's Guide to Best Practices. By completing a brief survey, retailers can download the free Guide to discover improvement strategies.
- Engage in We Card's campaign to address the issue of social sourcing among underage youth. Research shows that underage individuals often access tobacco products through social means. Ordering a free in-store campaign kit can help raise awareness about preventing these attempts.
Resources for Retailers
We Card offers a variety of valuable resources designed specifically for retailers to help them navigate the complexities of selling age-restricted products. The focus on education and compliance is essential for promoting responsible retailing practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is We Card Awareness Month?
We Card Awareness Month is a campaign aimed at enhancing training and compliance for retailers that sell age-restricted products, emphasizing the importance of effective employee training.
Why is training important for store employees?
Training provides employees with the knowledge and confidence needed to deny underage purchases, ensuring compliance with laws and fostering a responsible retail environment.
How can retailers participate in We Card Awareness Month?
Retailers can take part by implementing training programs, updating their materials, conducting performance assessments, and joining the campaign against underage access.
What resources are available for retailers?
We Card offers a range of resources including eLearning programs, signage kits, performance checks, and best practices guides to support compliance efforts.
What regions are involved in the campaign?
Currently, states such as Arkansas, Connecticut, Indiana, and many others are participating, with additional states expected to join throughout the month.
