Written by Matt Emma
For many veterans, police officers, and first responders, the battle doesn’t end with service. According to the Centers for Disease Control, service members and military veterans have higher rates of tobacco product use than civilians, especially among service members who have been deployed overseas. Even though cigarette smoking increases the risk for lung cancer, heart disease, chronic bronchitis, and many other diseases, service members start using traditional tobacco after they enter military service. During 2010–2015, more than 1 in 5 (21.6%) veterans in the United States reported current cigarette smoking. In 2018, 14.6% of veterans enrolled for care at the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) reported current cigarette smoking. The same year, cigarette smoking reached an all-time low (13.7%) among civilians.
Many servicemembers report using smoking to cope with combat stress, boredom, and extended deployments. Veterans also report they face unique challenges when trying to quit, including emotional triggers, withdrawal, and social cues tied to their service years. In recent years, many have found switching to smoke-free alternatives like nicotine pouches as a step toward switching away from combustible tobacco for good.
Now, Northerner.com, the leading online retailer of tobacco-leaf-free nicotine pouches, has partnered with GOVX, the exclusive shopping platform for military members and public servants, to make that journey even more accessible. Verified GOVX members receive a 25% discount sitewide at Northerner.com—an ongoing token of appreciation for their service.
“Partnering with GOVX is our way of honoring the everyday heroes who serve our communities with courage and commitment,” said James Lees, VP of Customer Retention at Haypp Group, Northerner’s parent company. “For many adult smokers, nicotine pouches offer a modern alternative to traditional tobacco products, especially cigarettes. This partnership makes accessing smoke-free and tobacco leaf-free alternatives that fit their lifestyle easier for our veterans and public servants.”
More Than a Discount: A Step Toward Better Habits
The goal of Northerner’s partnership with GOVX isn’t just savings, it’s also increasing access to alternatives that support harm reduction. Access to tools that meet veterans where they are. And access to a smoke-free future, one choice at a time.With the help of trusted organizations like GOVX and smoke-free brands like Northerner, thousands of veterans and first responders now have more support on the journey to quit smoking.
If you’re a veteran or frontline professional looking to make the switch—or want to explore your options—you can visit Northerner.com or sign up directly through GOVX.com.
How It Works
The discount program offers 25% off all Northerner products to those who serve or have served, including:- Military: Active duty, reservists, retirees, and veterans
- First Responders: Firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics
- Law Enforcement: Police officers, federal agents, corrections officers
- Government Employees: Local, state, or federal
Claiming the discount is easy:
- Visit Northerner.com
- Click the GOVX pop-up and verify your eligibility
- Receive a unique 25% off code
- Apply the code at checkout—every time you shop
“This isn’t a limited-time offer—it’s a standing thank-you,” added Lees. “Though it cannot be combined with other promotions, it applies to all purchases and remains valid at all times.”
Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of nicotine pouches as a safer alternative to cigarettes or other tobacco products. The author does not make any representation or warranty regarding the relative safety, risk, or health impacts of nicotine pouches compared to cigarettes or other tobacco products. Furthermore, no claim is made as to the efficacy of nicotine pouches as a smoking cessation aid. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved nicotine pouches for use as a cessation tool, and scientific research on the short- and long-term health effects of nicotine pouch use is ongoing. Readers should consult with qualified health professionals regarding tobacco and nicotine use and cessation methods.
