Birmingham Magistrates' Court granted a closure order against M1 Shish Shop Limited on Erdington High Street on Tuesday, August 11, following an investigation by Birmingham City Council Trading Standards. The business, which also traded as A1 Shish Shop Limited from the same address, was closed after officers seized illicit vapes and tobacco products during multiple visits.
Trading Standards officers first attended the premises in January 2025 and again in March 2026, seizing illicit vapes and tobacco on both occasions. They returned last month for a test purchase exercise, which led to the court order. After the decision, officers enforced the closure and formally shut the business.
First closure order under Operation CLOUD
The closure order is the first secured by the council as part of ongoing efforts to tackle illegal activity, protect consumers, and support legitimate businesses across Birmingham. The enforcement action was carried out under Operation CLOUD, a partnership involving Birmingham City Council and other agencies.
Councillor Harris Khaliq, Cabinet Member for City Services and Digital at Birmingham City Council, said: “We are committed to ensuring Birmingham's communities, consumers and businesses are protected from unlawful activity. This successful Closure Order demonstrates the important work carried out by our Trading Standards team and partner agencies to uphold the law and maintain confidence in our local high streets.”
Council pledges to support legitimate traders
Khaliq added: “The vast majority of businesses in Birmingham operate responsibly and make a positive contribution to the city's economy. Where there is evidence that enforcement action is necessary, we will not hesitate to use the powers available to us to protect residents and support legitimate traders.”
Councillor Sam Forsyth, Chair of the Licensing and Public Protection Committee, praised the officers involved. “This outcome highlights the vital role enforcement and regulatory services play in protecting our communities,” Forsyth said. “Birmingham City Council is committed to ensuring businesses operate within the law and that residents can feel confident that concerns about unlawful activity are acted upon.”
Forsyth thanked Trading Standards officers and partner agencies for their professionalism and dedication, adding that actions like this help ensure high streets remain safe, fair, and welcoming for everyone. The council continues to work with partner agencies to identify and address illegal activity across the city, and residents can report concerns about rogue traders, illicit goods, or other Trading Standards issues via the council's website.
