We have got to act together and speak to government with one powerful voice

Ron Colley, Landmark Cash and Carry Ltd

According to the magazine's research, seven out of 10 UK retailers have noticed a rise in smuggled tobacco products, while half say bootlegging is on the increase in their areas.

More than one-quarter of traders say their tobacco sales have fallen by between 11% and 25% over the year, while 14% saw sales tumble by between one-quarter and a half.

Alcohol sales fared better with a fifth of traders unaffected by bootlegging, but it was a serious problem for 10% of licensed traders who lost one-quarter of their sales.

The lost trade is estimated to cost each retailer tens of thousands of pounds a year.

Almost two-thirds of the 410 retailers surveyed said pubs and clubs were the most popular outlets for smuggled goods.

Forgotten crime

Over 50% said that private homes, car boot sales and the backs of vans were all commonly used to sell on smuggled goods.

Nine-in-10 retailers said they would support the introduction of "UK duty paid" marks on packs, although less than 25% believed that would have a significant impact on the problem.

Ron Colley, marketing director of Landmark Cash and Carry Ltd, said: "We sometimes forget that bootlegging is a crime.

"The common criminals who trade in cigarettes and alcohol don't just evade tax and duty and take business away from legitimate channels, but also sell on to children.

"We have got to act together and speak to government with one powerful voice.

"We are asking retailers to join us in the fight for new policies that will stamp out smuggling for good."