Betfred is set to close 132 of its UK betting shops and cut over 600 jobs starting September. This decision follows an increase in the Remote Gaming Duty earlier this year. While another tax hike is expected in 2027, it won’t immediately affect retail betting. The choice to close outlets was first disclosed by Sky News.
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Impact of the Tax Increases
CEO Jo Whittaker expressed regret about the decision, citing increased employer National Insurance contributions, wage inflation, higher gambling taxes, and overall economic uncertainty as critical pressures. “We’ve tried hard to protect our sites and staff,” Whittaker noted, stating the fiscal and regulatory pressures made it impossible to sustain all shops. Betfred will still operate around 1,100 outlets post-closure and has initiated staff consultations to address the impact. The tax rise, part of the UK’s autumn budget last year, featured a major Remote Gaming Duty increase alongside an online sports betting levy set for 2027. These fiscal changes forced Betfred’s hand in closing well-operated, customer-driven locations, according to Whittaker. But those closures aren’t surprising—they echo a familiar tune in the industry.
Similar Moves by Competitors
Entain, which owns Ladbrokes and Coral, announced store closures in Ireland in April. The company shuttered 39 out of approximately 100 Ladbrokes shops, cutting over 226 jobs. In July, Entain announced an additional 500 global roles would be axed, primarily in operations. A spokesperson claimed these cuts weren’t linked to the tax increase but were part of a strategic plan for cost efficiency and shareholder value. Meanwhile, Evoke, parent to William Hill, directly blamed tax increases for its decision to close 200 stores in April. A spokesperson disclosed these closures should alleviate the burden from the tax pressures announced in the previous year’s autumn budget. The pattern is notable. Industry pressures often hit several operators simultaneously.
Market and Regulatory Context
The UK gambling sector is reeling from these regulatory changes—particularly the tax hikes. The Remote Gaming Duty and other levies place heavy operational burdens on betting shops, causing widespread closures. Industry players like Betfred and Evoke are opting to shrink their retail footprint to adapt to an evolving market. Regulatory bodies haven’t been quiet, either. With fiscal policies tightening and taxes increasing, operators are forced to rethink sustainability. Analysts have flagged that more shop closures could be on the horizon if these economic conditions persist. But whether that actually dents revenue remains an open question.
What’s Next?
Betfred is focusing on smoothing the transition for affected employees and maintaining operations across the rest of its network. Consultations with staff affected by these closures have already begun. As for the industry, all eyes are on 2027 when the next tax increase is scheduled, which may prompt further adjustments in the market.
Garry Sputnim is a seasoned journalist and storyteller with over a decade of experience in the trenches of global news. With a keen eye for uncovering stories that resonate, Alex has reported from over 30 countries, bringing light to untold narratives and the human faces behind the headlines. Specializing in investigative journalism, Garry has a knack for technology and social justice issues, weaving compelling narratives that bridge tech and humanity. Outside the newsroom, Garry is an avid rock climber and podcast host, exploring stories of resilience and innovation.
