A recent poll conducted by YouGov has found that an impressive 90% of betting shop patrons in the UK engage in additional spending or local activities during their visits. The survey, which collected responses from 1,475 adults across the UK, reveals that nine out of ten betting shop customers partake in activities such as shopping or dining on at least some visits, with 54% admitting they do so during most or nearly every encounter.
This data, shared on the site of prominent operator Entain, underscores the significant economic impact that retail betting has in the UK, especially with the autumn budget approaching. Entain, which operates the Ladbrokes and Coral brands, maintains a substantial retail presence.
Bejay Patel, managing director for Entain Group in the UK and Ireland, commented on these findings, emphasizing the vital role that betting shops play in bolstering 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. "We need to recognize the important contribution betting shops make to our economy and local communities alike."
The YouGov poll also addressed the social dimension of retail betting, revealing that 68% of respondents view betting shops as established fixtures on high streets, while 60% believe they help sustain local employment. Additionally, 76% of betting shop customers rated these establishments positively as meeting places, which is comparable to the 77% approval rating for cafés.
Entain has undertaken initiatives, such as its What’s at Stake campaign, to promote the positive impacts of betting shops.
However, the findings come during a challenging time for UK retail betting shops and the sector as a whole. This year, both Betfred and Evoke have shut down numerous locations, and Flutter recently announced that 1,400 jobs across its UK and Ireland operations are at risk due to restructuring measures.
The sector has faced difficulties stemming from an increase in the remote gaming duty from 21% to 40%, which took effect this past April. More challenges could arise with next week’s autumn budget. A group of Labour MPs has already written to UK Chancellor John Healey requesting an increase in machine games duty, expected to rise from 20% to potentially 40%, although reports suggest it could be capped at 25%.
Grainne Hurst, CEO of Betting and Gaming Council, stated this week that any further tax hike, even by just 5%, would severely impact the UK industry. "Any further tax increase would heap more pressure on an industry already facing substantial tax rises, threatening jobs, high streets, and crucial funding for British racing," she warned. Hurst urged the Chancellor to weigh the full economic effects of any tax increases, aiming to protect the jobs, businesses, and British sports reliant on the regulated industry.
