Entain, the gambling group behind brands including Ladbrokes and Coral, has cautioned against additional increases in gambling taxes, warning that further hikes could put retail operations and jobs at risk. The company’s chief executive, Stella David, called on government ministers to carefully evaluate the potential impact before implementing new tax measures.
Entain reported a 2 percent rise in total revenue for the three months ending September 30, driven in part by growth in its online segment. Online revenue increased by 3 percent overall, with a notable 14 percent surge in the UK and Ireland markets. Despite these gains, the company expressed concern that heavier taxation could undermine the sustainability of physical betting shops and reduce employment opportunities within the sector.
The company’s comments come amid ongoing discussions about gambling regulation and taxation policy in the United Kingdom, where the government is reviewing the sector’s economic and social impact. Entain’s management emphasized the importance of balancing regulatory objectives with the commercial realities faced by gambling operators.
By highlighting the recent growth in online gambling, especially in key markets, Entain underscored the resilience of that segment but also suggested that retail operations remain vulnerable to excessive fiscal pressure. The firm’s stance reflects broader industry concerns that tax increases could accelerate the migration of customers to unregulated platforms or overseas operators.
Entain’s strong performance in digital betting contrasts with challenges faced by bricks-and-mortar outlets, which have experienced significant pressures from changing consumer habits and heightened regulatory scrutiny in recent years. The company’s appeal seeks to prevent policy steps that could exacerbate those difficulties, preserving a mixed business model that includes both online and retail channels.
As the government considers its approach to gambling taxation, Entain’s warning highlights the potential trade-offs involved in balancing public health objectives against economic consequences for the industry and its workforce. The company’s recent financial results indicate steady growth, yet its message signals caution against measures that might undermine this progress.