The findings of OLBG’s first UK Gambling Habits Survey, conducted by YouGov, revealed a significant shift in the betting landscape, with a decline in High Street bookmakers’ popularity and a rise in online gambling. However, recent developments in the industry suggest a potential resurgence for retail outlets. Operators such as 888 and Entain reported increased revenue from their retail arms, attributing the decline in online business to regulatory changes, including affordability checks.
Changing Dynamics: High Street vs. Online:
The survey results indicated that a considerable portion of respondents (23.5%) had stopped using High Street bookmakers, with 18.7% transitioning to online platforms while still maintaining some High Street activity. Only 7.5% of participants reported the majority of their gambling taking place at physical outlets. The COVID-19 pandemic and the convenience of online betting platforms have accelerated the shift towards digital gambling. However, recent financial reports from operators indicate a potential shift in this trend.
Resurgence of Retail:
888’s full-year results for 2022 demonstrated a decline in online operations but a significant increase in retail revenues. Although this can partially be attributed to the impact of COVID-19 restrictions in 2021, 888 also cited additional player safety measures and potential regulatory changes as risks to their online business. Entain echoed similar sentiments, reporting a decline in online revenue due to affordability checks imposed by regulatory changes. Surprisingly, the survey revealed that 65% of respondents were unwilling to comply with affordability checks.
Potential Impact of Affordability Checks:
While the proposed affordability checks in the UK Gambling White Paper aim to protect players from excessive gambling-related harm, their implementation may drive some customers away from online platforms. The disparity between the proposed thresholds for lower-level checks and the perceived intrusiveness of credit reference or open banking data checks could deter regular gamblers who prefer to maintain their privacy. This could result in a preference for High Street bookmakers, where affordability checks are not required.
The Influence of Slot Machine Regulations:
Another factor that could contribute to the revival of High Street bookmakers is the potential introduction of stricter regulations for online slot machines. The White Paper proposes limits on online slot stakes, aligning them with the restrictions imposed on Fixed Odds Betting Terminals (FOBTs) in physical bookmakers. This could level the playing field between online and retail gambling and attract customers who prefer the tactile experience of playing slots in person.
Impact on Betting Intentions:
Reports from major horse racing events, such as Cheltenham and the Grand National, indicated a potential shift in betting patterns. On-course bookmakers reported an increase in wagers due to punters seeking to avoid affordability checks imposed by online operators. A separate survey on betting intentions for the Grand National revealed a higher percentage of participants planning to bet in person at a High Street bookmaker compared to their usual online betting habits. This suggests that concerns about affordability checks may influence bettors’ choices.
Balancing Player Protection and Customer Preferences:
While the UK Gambling White Paper aims to modernize regulations and protect players, it is essential to strike a balance between safeguarding individuals from harm and respecting their preferences for privacy and convenience. Higher-level checks targeting excessive gambling habits are generally supported, but lower-level checks with perceived intrusiveness may drive customers back to High Street bookmakers.
The shift in gambling habits, with a decline in High Street bookmakers’ popularity and the rise of online gambling, may witness a potential reversal as recent developments indicate a resurgence for retail outlets. Affordability checks and proposed regulations on online slot machines could drive customers away from online platforms. Privacy concerns, coupled with a desire for convenience, may motivate regular gamblers to return to High Street bookmakers. Achieving a balance between player protection and customer preferences will be crucial in shaping the future of the gambling industry.