The Prize Competition Council (PCC) has officially been launched as a trade association representing the UK's prize draw sector. Announced on Wednesday, the PCC seeks to unite over 50 operators to foster responsible standards, enhance player protections, and promote long-term industry growth.
After several months of collaboration across the industry, the PCC has developed a governance framework and contributed to a voluntary code of conduct intended to improve transparency and accountability among prize draw operators. This code, published by the government in November 2022, took effect in May 2023 and was designed to address player protection and ethical marketing concerns. It allows players to set monthly spending limits, with operators also able to impose their own limits.
Daniel Swann, who represents smaller operators, underscored the necessity of widespread adherence to the voluntary code, asserting, “It is vital that everyone embraces the Code and feels the PCC has their interests at heart.”
The inaugural board, elected for a two-year term, reflects a variety of operator sizes and business models. Board members include:
– George McGregor (independent chair)
– Chris Jennings (Winvia Entertainment PLC)
– Tam Watson (Jumbo Interactive UK)
– Declan Murray (Pristine Competitions)
– Punit Shah (Seven Days Performance)
– Pete Toye (The GiveAway Guys)
– Oliver Donnelly (McKinney Competitions)
– Ian Buckley (Paragon Competitions)
– Daniel Swann (Two Fat Ladies Competitions)
Jo Bucci, a founding member and outgoing director of the PCC, also serves as chair of Winvia Entertainment PLC. She noted that establishing a strong board would help tackle the challenges the sector faces in the coming years and acknowledged the “constructive engagement and support” from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport during the council's establishment.
George McGregor emphasized that the creation of the council demonstrates the sector's maturation and the importance of strong representation and clear standards for a thriving industry.
Looking ahead, the PCC identified its initial priorities, which include assisting members with the implementation of the voluntary code of conduct and creating sector-wide guidance and training materials. Acting as a representative voice in discussions with government and regulators is also a key focus.
The organization is dedicated to ensuring that smaller operators receive the advocacy and guidance they require.
In the UK, prize competitions operate within a complex regulatory framework, often differentiated from gambling and lottery laws based on their format and prize distribution methods. The Prize Draw Competition (PDC) market has seen significant growth recently, with a Rokker survey in April indicating it generated £1.3 billion in annual revenue and engaged approximately 7.4 million active players.
Jamie Pinner, a senior leader at the UK prize draw operator DrawHouse, noted, “One of the key advantages in the UK is that prize draws are not currently subject to Remote Gaming Duty. That makes them a far more efficient revenue stream than sportsbook or casino products, at least for the time being.” However, Pinner views this regulatory environment as a temporary advantage, predicting that in the coming years, the market is likely to shift towards regulation. Major betting operators, he believes, will be well-positioned to adapt swiftly due to their existing infrastructure, compliance frameworks, and established customer bases.
