Getting the full picture on UK gambling

The betting industry generates GBP 6 billion in the United Kingdom annually – half a percent of the nation’s total gross domestic product – according to a new study by professional business services provider Deloitte.
Commissioned by online and land betting group Ladbrokes, the ‘Full Picture’ survey found that the betting industry also provides over 100 000 direct and indirect jobs, which is 0.3 percent of the United Kingdom’s total employment.
Deloitte reported that the retail betting industry alone generates GBP 700 million in wages each year along with GBP 800 million in profits while providing GBP 700 million in tax.
In addition to quantifying the economic contribution of betting in terms of both direct and indirect impacts, the report also highlighted the wider impact of the industry in delivering other socio-economic policy objectives.
It showed that betting provides a relatively high number of jobs for workers with no qualifications, boosting employment opportunities and skills development, and has a regenerative impact due to the high levels of footfall.
“The betting industry makes a significant contribution to the British economy but is subject to intense international competition,” said Simon Oaten from Deloitte.
“With Internet and mobile betting growing, the challenge for government is to balance effective regulation with creating the conditions for the domestic industry to compete.”
Deloitte stated that 15 percent of horse racing’s annual income is derived from the betting industry, which helps to support employment in rural areas through links with the sport. The report also highlighted the positive impacts of betting on sports through marketing and direct sponsorships.
“This report comes at a crucial time for the industry and will help inform the government and stakeholders about the important contribution the industry makes to employment and taxation in these difficult economic times,” said Chris Bell, Chief Executive Officer for Ladbrokes.
“We hope it will contribute towards more informed policy making and help remove much of the uncertainty that has surrounded the taxation and regulation of our industry in recent years.”

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