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Not long ago, betting shops were everywhere in the UK. Streets were full of signs from Ladbrokes, William Hill, and Betfred. People visited them daily not just to bet, but to meet friends, chat about football, or enjoy the races. These shops were more than businesses. They were part of the culture.
But times have changed. Now, online betting is leading, and the world of retail betting looks very different. However, one thing is clear retail betting hasn’t disappeared. It’s still here, just smaller and adapting to the new age.
When Betting Shops Were Everywhere
A few years back, betting shops ruled the gambling world. In 2012, there were more than 9,000 betting shops in the UK. By 2017, there were still around 8,900. These shops earned over £3 billion each year. Even though online betting was growing, retail betting was the main source of income for many companies.
Back then, retail had everything location, loyal customers, and strong performance. It made up about 40% of the total gambling market, and even more in sports betting. Online betting was more of an extra feature.
The First Big Blow: Regulations and COVID-19
In 2019, a big change hit the industry. The UK government reduced the maximum stake on betting machines (FOBTs), which were a big part of shop earnings. As a result, over 800 betting shops closed, and total income dropped by hundreds of millions.
Then, COVID-19 arrived in 2020. Shops were forced to shut, and people had no choice but to switch to online apps and websites. Many people who had never bet online before now learned how easy and fast it was. This was a turning point for the industry.
The retail share in sports betting kept falling:
- 2019: 35–37%
- 2020: 28–30%
- 2021: 24–26%
- 2022: 23–25%
- 2023: 22–24%
- 2024 forecast: 21–22%
At the same time, online betting soared, reaching:
- 2020: over 70%
- 2021: over 74%
- 2022 onwards: 76–79%
Is Retail Betting Dead?
No, it’s not. While its share has gone down, retail betting is still alive and important. That 21-22% still means millions in revenue and thousands of shops open across the UK.
Many people, especially older customers, still prefer walking into a shop. Even younger players who use apps still like to visit betting shops once in a while for the social atmosphere. A phone app can’t replace that real-life interaction.
Some betting companies are now using omnichannel strategies this means giving customers a mix of both online and offline services. Big names like Betfred, Ladbrokes, and Coral continue to invest in their physical shops. They’re adding digital screens and self-service terminals, and updating interiors to give customers a modern experience.
Betting Shops: Still Part of British Culture
Retail betting is not just a business model, it’s part of the UK’s social and cultural identity. For years, it’s been a common part of everyday life. Even if people are moving online, that cultural connection remains.
Operators know that they can’t choose just one way forward. They need to improve their apps and online services while keeping the retail space alive and attractive. Betting shops still build brand loyalty and help reach a wider audience.
What’s Next? A Hybrid Future
The future of betting in the UK is most likely hybrid. Online will keep growing, especially with younger players. But land-based betting shops will still exist, smaller, smarter, and more focused.
These shops may no longer be the centre of gambling, but they will become social hubs, places where people can enjoy betting together, chat, and have fun. This blend of digital and physical experience might be the perfect match for the next generation of players.
Also Read: GambleAware Study: Young Adults Leading The Push To Reduce Gambling
