LONDON, ENGLAND - Restrictions that ban supermarkets and other large stores in England from displaying packs of cigarettes took effect on April 6.

The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) reminded retailers to be prepared for the tobacco display ban, which came into effect for all larger stores.

It is now illegal for all stores over 3,000 square feet to display tobacco products to the general public. All other shops and businesses selling tobacco products will be affected from 6 April 2015.

James Lowman, ACS CEO, said: "ACS did not support the introduction of the display ban, however now it is here retailers must ensure they and their staff are aware of the requirements and that their stores are fully compliant from day one."

The tobacco display ban affects large stores in England; compliance deadlines in Wales and Northern Ireland have not yet been announced. Scotland also intends to ban tobacco display but this is subject to separate legislation.