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Sales of smoking cessation aids are set to break through the £100 million-mark as more Britons seek to kick the habit.

According to research firm Mintel, the introduction of smoking bans in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland has already had an effect on sales while the imminent ban in England will boost figures further.

Numerous options are available to smokers looking to quit, including hand gels, mouth sprays and nicotine-replacement chewing gums and patches.

Mintel says that there has been a 40 per cent increase in UK sales of smoking cessation aids since 2002 and the industry is estimated to reach £140 million by 2011.

"With antismoking legislation coming into place in more and more countries across the world, many smokers are trying to quit so that they can enjoy a night out, without needing to pop outside for a quick cigarette," David Jago, director of Mintel GNPD custom solutions, said.

"Sales of products are set for a boom period, particularly in England where a ban on smoking in public places is coming into place this weekend."
As part of its research, Mintel cites numerous new products on the shelves across the world aimed at the prospective quitter.

In the US, a water-soluble hand gel called Nicogel contains extracts of tobacco and claims to beat cigarette cravings; in Italy a mouth spray known as Sofar is formulated with silver ions claim to induce feelings of nausea when smoking; and in Portugal a tea made with Melissa, eucalyptus and thyme is marketed at making smokers breathe easier.

From Sunday smoking will be banned in all public spaces and workplaces in England, including nightclubs, bars and restaurants.