A recent YouGov poll has shown that a substantial 90% of betting shop customers in the UK pair their visits with local spending or activities. The survey collected the opinions of 1,475 UK adults and revealed that most betting shop users, specifically 54%, engage in additional local spending on most or nearly every visit.
These findings, which were shared on the website of key operator Entain, highlight the broader economic influence of retail betting in the UK, especially as the autumn budget approaches.
Entain operates a significant retail presence in the UK through its well-known Ladbrokes and Coral brands. Bejay Patel, managing director for Entain Group in the UK and Ireland, commented on the poll's results, emphasizing the vital role that betting shops play in contributing to high streets and local economies. "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," Patel stated. He added, "We need to recognize the important contribution betting shops make to our economy and local communities alike."
The YouGov poll not only assessed the economic impacts but also the social significance of retail betting. It found that 68% of respondents view betting shops as established high-street fixtures, and 60% believe they support local employment. Additionally, 76% of betting shop patrons rated them positively as places for social interaction, closely matching the 77% approval rating for cafés.
Entain has been actively promoting the benefits of betting establishments through its What’s at Stake campaign.
The release of the poll results arrives at a challenging time for UK retail betting outlets. Both Betfred and Evoke have closed numerous shops this year, and Flutter recently announced that 1,400 positions in its UK and Ireland business are at risk due to a restructuring effort.
The UK betting sector has faced significant challenges following an increase in remote gaming duty from 21% to 40%, which took effect in April. Additional hurdles may be imminent as a group of Labour MPs has written to UK Chancellor John Healey urging an increase in machine games duty amid speculation surrounding the upcoming budget. The proposed increase could elevate the duty from 20% to 40%, although reports indicate it may be adjusted to a maximum of 25%.
Grainne Hurst, CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council, warned that even a modest tax increase could pose serious risks to the 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 asserted. Hurst urged the Chancellor to consider the economic ramifications of additional tax hikes and to safeguard the jobs and businesses that rely on the regulated betting industry.
