The Government has brought in the ruling with the aim of protecting children from being the target of tobacco promotion and helping people quit smoking. The Department of Health says evidence shows cigarette displays in shops can lure young people into lighting up, with nearly two-thirds of current and ex-smokers saying they picked up the habit before 18.
A Morrisons' spokesman said: "We are prepared for the ban on the display of tobacco.
"We have redesigned the tobacco booths in all stores in accordance with the regulations and have ensured all of our colleagues are aware of the changes."
Smaller shops and businesses selling tobacco to the public will have to comply with the new rules from April 2015.
Suman Chandran, manager and owner of Albion Stores, in Albion Street, Cheltenham, says it will cost his business around £2,000 to make the necessary changes.
He said: "I think we will probably need to arrange something underneath the counter so we will need to re-do the whole thing. We will need to get a new counter. It's going to cost a lot of money."
Pradip Patel, owner of Cotswold News and Cigars, Clarence Street, Cheltenham, said: "The majority of adult smokers know what they want anyway, so they don't need to browse. But I think people will be more willing to buy black market cigarettes, rather than go into shops."
Jo Butcher, programme director of health and well-being at the National Children's Bureau, said: "National Children's Bureau welcomes the end of tobacco displays.
"Children and young people tell us that outside influences make it even more difficult for them to choose healthier lifestyles.
"A yet-to-be-released National Children's Bureau health survey has found more than one in four young people felt they needed more information about the health effects of drugs, alcohol or tobacco.
"It's essential that we create a culture that promotes and protects public health and tobacco legislation is a significant factor in making this happen."
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