A recent YouGov poll has revealed that a significant 90% of UK betting shop patrons engage in additional spending or activities in their local area during their visits. This survey, which included responses from 1,475 adults, highlighted that nine out of ten betting shop customers participate in other local engagements, such as shopping or leisure activities, on at least some occasions. Notably, 54% reported doing so on most or nearly every visit.
These findings, shared on the website of prominent operator Entain, illustrate the broader economic influence of retail betting in the UK, especially with the autumn budget approaching.
Entain, which operates well-known brands like Ladbrokes and Coral, pointed out the valuable role that betting shops play in local economies. Bejay Patel, managing director for the UK and Ireland at Entain, emphasized the importance of these establishments in supporting high streets. "This research confirms what our hard-working colleagues know to be true – betting shops are a cornerstone of every high street and provide a boost to local business," he stated. "We need to recognise the important contribution betting shops make to our economy and local communities alike."
The YouGov poll also assessed the social importance of retail betting, revealing that 68% of respondents view betting shops as established fixtures on the high street, while 60% believe they contribute to local employment. Additionally, 76% of betting shop patrons appreciate them as venues for social interaction, a figure quite similar to the 77% rating given to cafés.
Entain has been proactive in promoting the positive aspects of betting shops through its What’s at Stake campaign.
However, these findings arise amidst challenging circumstances for UK retail betting shops and the broader sector. Both Betfred and Evoke have shuttered numerous locations this year. Recently, Flutter announced that approximately 1,400 jobs in its UK and Ireland operations are at risk due to restructuring efforts. The industry is also grappling with the recent increase in remote gaming duty, which rose from 21% to 40% as of April 2023.
Further complications may be on the horizon. In anticipation of next week’s autumn budget, a group of Labour MPs has penned a letter to UK Chancellor John Healey urging an increase in machine games duty. This increase is speculated to raise the current rate from 20% to 40%, although reports suggest it might be capped at 25%.
Grainne Hurst, CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council, cautioned that even a modest tax increase would adversely impact the UK betting industry. "Any further tax increase would heap more pressure on an industry already facing substantial tax rises, threatening jobs, high streets, and vital funding for British racing," she remarked. She called on the chancellor to consider the likely economic ramifications of any tax increases in the upcoming budget, advocating for the protection of jobs, businesses, and British sports reliant on the regulated betting sector.
