More than 80 local retailers will wind down sales of menthol cigarettes this week, as new restrictions on flavored tobacco products in Duluth take effect Friday.

Starting June 1, adults-only smoke shops will be the sole retailers allowed to sell such products, widely regarded as a gateway to nicotine addiction for young people.

Andy Verhel, owner of the Piedmont Milkhouse, said he aims to sell off his inventory of flavored cigarettes before the deadline arrives or risk having to eat the loss. [...]