Our CEO, Jabs Ahmed, was proudly honored with the Vapouround Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Vape Industry, a testament to his visionary leadership and innovative marketing strategies that transformed the vape landscape. His pioneering approach to launching Geekbar and, just nine months later, Elfbar sent shockwaves through the industry, reshaping how vape products were marketed and consumed. Within their first year, these two brands became global sensations, with sales reaching an astonishing £500 million in the UK alone.
A Revolutionary Marketing Strategy:
Jabs Ahmed crafted a marketing strategy unlike anything the vape industry had ever seen. Recognizing the growing influence of digital platforms, he spearheaded the use of Instagram and TikTok to engage a younger, tech-savvy audience, creating a movement that introduced over 1 million new vapers to the industry—many of whom were switching from traditional smoking to vaping. This shift was not only groundbreaking but also instrumental in expanding the vape market’s reach and appeal.
By leveraging these platforms, Jabs and the UK PLUG ME team were able to tell the story of vape brands in a way that was fresh, modern, and deeply engaging. They capitalized on the power of short-form content, influencer partnerships, and viral trends to create massive online visibility that translated into real-world brand loyalty. This digital-first approach redefined how vape products were marketed and firmly positioned both Geekbar and Elfbar as household names within the global vape community.
Nationwide Brand Exposure:
Outdoor Events and Experiential Marketing: UK PLUG ME didn’t stop at digital marketing; the team brought the brands directly to consumers by organizing outdoor events, such as music festivals, car meets, and pop-up experiences across the UK. These events were pivotal in building nationwide brand exposure and creating authentic consumer connections. For the first time in the vape industry, consumers were targeted through large-scale, high-energy events where they could engage with products, interact with brand representatives, and experience the vape culture firsthand. This experiential marketing approach, orchestrated by UK PLUG ME, turned vaping into more than just a product—it became a lifestyle. The direct interaction with consumers at events sparked a ripple effect that not only boosted sales but also solidified Elfbar and Geekbar as leading brands in the UK and beyond.
Revolutionizing Retail Expansion:
After establishing a strong digital and experiential presence, Jabs Ahmed and the UK PLUG ME team set their sights on dominating the retail sector. They employed innovative branding and marketing strategies to rapidly expand Elfbar's footprint from 100 vape shops to a staggering 25,000 convenience stores across the UK. This unprecedented growth was achieved by pushing the boundaries of traditional retail marketing and offering retailers tailored support to help them successfully introduce Elfbar to their customers. UK PLUG ME’s team worked closely with store owners to implement point-of-sale promotions, in-store branding, and consumer education programs that made Elfbar the go-to choice for vapers. This hands-on approach ensured that Elfbar wasn’t just another product on the shelf—it was a brand that resonated with both retailers and consumers alike. This expansion strategy fundamentally changed how vape products were distributed and sold, setting a new standard for the industry.
A Legacy of Innovation and Growth:
Jabs Ahmed’s leadership, combined with UK PLUG ME’s cutting-edge marketing strategies, has transformed the vape industry, driving unprecedented growth and setting new benchmarks for success. The company’s unique approach—fusing digital innovation with experiential marketing and strong retail partnerships—has created a blueprint for brands looking to establish themselves in the market.
For brands seeking to break through in competitive industries, UK PLUG ME’s proven strategies are a clear path to achieving growth, visibility, and long-term success.