The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has unveiled ambitious plans for the UK’s betting and gaming industry, particularly in the West Midlands. Over the next five years, this sector is poised to create a significant number of tech jobs, enhancing the region’s employment landscape.
Overview of the Industry in the West Midlands
The West Midlands hosts renowned operators like bet365 and Gamesys, along with several iGaming developers such as Intouch. Notable industry employers also include Genting, Inspired Gaming, and others. This concentration of key players underscores the region’s prominence within the betting and gaming sector.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
The BGC’s projection of 1,500 new tech jobs in the West Midlands over the next five years reflects a robust expansion plan. Presently, this sector sustains nearly 20,000 jobs in the region, with a substantial portion centered in Stoke, particularly owing to bet365’s operations.
Local Benefits and Community Engagement
Michael Dugher, Chief Executive of the BGC, emphasizes building a world-class industry that is deeply integrated into local communities. This vision underscores the significance of responsible corporate citizenship and positive community engagement.
National Scope of Growth
Beyond the West Midlands, the UK’s regulated betting and gaming industry anticipates creating a total of 15,000 tech jobs across the country in the coming years. This national-level expansion highlights the industry’s pivotal role in the broader economic landscape.
Impact on Stoke-On-Trent
In Stoke-On-Trent, the presence of companies like bet365 has contributed significantly to the local economy. Conservative Party politician Jo Gideon lauds the quality and sustainability of jobs provided by industry leaders like bet365, particularly in the wake of economic challenges like those posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Industry Footprint and Tax Contribution
The region boasts 500 betting shops and 16 casinos, generating an impressive £250 million in tax revenue annually. This substantial contribution underscores the economic significance of the betting and gaming sector in the West Midlands.
The UK’s betting and gaming industry, particularly in the West Midlands, is poised for substantial growth, with a focus on technological innovation and job creation. This transformative trajectory not only promises economic prosperity but also underscores the industry’s commitment to responsible growth and community engagement.