BGC Research Shows Casinos Generate High Street Visits and Support Local Businesses

According to G3 Newswire, new research from the Betting and Gaming Council highlights the role Britain’s casinos play in drawing visitors to town and city centres and supporting neighbouring businesses.

41.1 per cent of surveyed casino customers said they would otherwise have stayed at home. 55 per cent indicated they probably or definitely would not have visited the local area. 72.1 per cent reported using at least one other local business during their visit.

Report Findings on Casino Activity

The study, titled Beyond Gaming: The Evolution of Britain’s Land-Based Casinos as Nightlife Destinations, covers the sector’s 108 licensed casinos. These venues support approximately 14,000 direct and indirect jobs and generate nearly 14 million visits annually. The research was unveiled at an event hosted by the Night Time Industries Association at London’s Hippodrome Casino.

Casinos have evolved into hospitality, leisure and entertainment destinations that combine gaming with restaurants, bars and live events. This activity feeds directly into the wider night-time economy.

Investment Plans and Tax Concerns

The findings arrive after the Government’s 2025 casino reforms, which created new scope for modernisation. Operators have identified approximately £200 million of planned capital investment over the next five years, focused on hospitality facilities, entertainment venues and customer experiences.

Michael Kill, CEO of the NTIA, said: “Britain’s high streets need businesses that give people a reason to leave home and spend time in our towns and cities. More than four in ten surveyed casino customers would otherwise have stayed at home, and almost three-quarters used another local business.

“Modern casinos support jobs, hospitality, entertainment and neighbouring businesses. That contribution deserves recognition in the national conversation about high-street regeneration.”

Grainne Hurst, Chief Executive of the Betting and Gaming Council, said: “These findings show that Britain’s casinos have a vital role to play in supporting our high streets, creating jobs and bringing people into our towns and cities. Casinos are about much more than gaming. They are major employers and entertainment destinations, supporting restaurants, bars, hotels and countless other businesses that depend on a thriving visitor economy.

“The Government’s welcome reforms last year gave casinos new opportunities to modernise, diversify and invest. With around £200 million of investment planned across the sector, there is a real opportunity to deliver even greater benefits for local communities.

“But that progress cannot be taken for granted. Businesses need certainty and confidence to invest, and further tax pressures risk holding back the very growth and regeneration we all want to see.

“We should be backing well-regulated businesses that support jobs, investment and Britain’s high streets, not putting further obstacles in their way.”

Uncertainty over potential changes to Machine Games Duty in the Autumn Budget is cited as a factor that could reduce business confidence and delay the identified investment.

Reporting: G3 Newswire

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