In a groundbreaking collaboration, leading operators in the Swedish gambling industry, namely Kindred Group, ATG, and Svenska Spel, have joined forces to foster public awareness and initiate a fact-based dialogue addressing the critical issue of gambling harm. This strategic partnership aims to shed light on the measures taken by the operators to mitigate the adverse effects of gambling and enhance transparency within the industry.
Key Data Points:
As part of this collaboration, the operators have committed to publishing four key data points bi-annually. These metrics are designed to provide insights into the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at reducing gambling harm and fostering responsible gambling behavior. The identified data points include:
Percentage of customers contacted due to problematic gambling (as a proportion of total active customers).
Impact of proactive contacts on customers (percentage of customers who subsequently reduce their gambling activities).
Average reduction in gambling activity among individuals who have been contacted.
Proportion of contacted customers choosing self-exclusion from gambling with operators.
Significance of Data:
The decision to disclose these specific data points is underlined by the acknowledgment of a pressing need. A recent survey by the Swedish Public Health Agency revealed that 56% of the Swedish population engaged in gambling for money in the past year. This high participation rate is coupled with a low level of public trust in the gambling industry, despite its widespread presence as a source of entertainment in the country.
CEO Perspectives:
Henrik Tjärnström, CEO of Kindred Group, emphasized the importance of these key metrics. He highlighted that reporting these figures every six months will provide stakeholders with a clear understanding of the operators’ efforts to counteract harmful gambling. Tjärnström expressed the belief that a more fact-based and open dialogue would contribute to increased trust in the industry and inspire other operators to adopt similar transparency measures.
Initiatives for Harm Reduction:
The collaborative initiative underscores the commitment of the operators to achieving zero revenue from harmful gambling. They outlined their multi-faceted approach, which incorporates regulatory compliance, technological solutions, ongoing research, and direct human intervention to address the complex issue of gambling harm.
Public Perception:
The Swedish Public Health Agency’s survey not only revealed the prevalence of gambling but also shed light on the existing trust deficit within the industry. Despite being a widely embraced form of entertainment, the gambling industry faces skepticism from the public. The partnership’s emphasis on transparency seeks to bridge this trust gap and foster a more positive perception of the industry.
Industry-Wide Impact:
The union of operators, comprising Kindred Group, ATG, and Svenska Spel, represents a significant step towards creating industry-wide accountability. By setting a precedent for transparency and regularly reporting key metrics, these operators aim to influence their peers to follow suit. The ripple effect of this initiative may pave the way for a collective commitment to responsible gambling practices across the Swedish gambling landscape.
Regulatory Landscape:
Acknowledging the role of regulations in shaping the industry, the operators in this partnership recognize the need for compliance with existing regulations. Furthermore, they actively engage with regulatory authorities to ensure that their initiatives align with broader efforts to create a safer gambling environment.
Technological Solutions:
In an era dominated by technology, the operators are leveraging innovative solutions to address gambling harm. From sophisticated algorithms identifying potentially problematic behavior to user-friendly interfaces facilitating self-exclusion, technology plays a pivotal role in the operators’ efforts to promote responsible gambling practices.
Research as a Foundation:
A commitment to ongoing research underscores the operators’ dedication to evidence-based decision-making. By staying abreast of the latest findings on gambling behavior, addiction patterns, and intervention strategies, the operators are better equipped to refine their initiatives and adapt to the evolving landscape of responsible gambling.
Human Intervention:
While technology is a powerful tool, the operators recognize the irreplaceable role of human contact in addressing gambling harm. Proactive outreach, counseling services, and support networks are integral components of the operators’ strategy to provide assistance to individuals facing challenges related to their gambling habits.
The collaborative effort of Kindred Group, ATG, and Svenska Spel marks a significant stride towards creating a more transparent and accountable gambling industry in Sweden. By committing to regular reporting of key metrics and emphasizing a multi-faceted approach to harm reduction, these operators aim to build public trust and inspire positive change within the industry. As the data is unveiled bi-annually, stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and the public will gain valuable insights into the progress made and challenges faced in the pursuit of responsible gambling practices. This initiative serves as a beacon for the broader industry, encouraging other operators to prioritize transparency and work collectively towards a safer and more sustainable gambling environment.