BGC releases new research highlighting the vital role casinos play in reviving Britain’s high streets
A BGC report says casinos draw visitors to town and city centres and support nearby hospitality, while the sector seeks investment certainty amid possible tax changes.
New research from the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) says Britain’s casinos play an important role in supporting high streets, drawing visitors into town and city centres and boosting neighbouring hospitality businesses. The findings were presented at an event hosted by the Night Time Industries Association at London’s Hippodrome Casino on 14 October.
The BGC research found 41.1% of surveyed casino customers would otherwise have stayed at home, while 55% said they probably or definitely would not have visited the local area. 72.1% reported using at least one other local business during their visit. The report examines how casinos are evolving into broader hospitality, leisure and entertainment destinations.
It cites 108 licensed casinos supporting about 14,000 direct and indirect jobs and attracting nearly 14 million visits annually. The sector has identified around £200 million of planned capital investment over five years following the Government’s 2025 casino reforms. However, the BGC says uncertainty over possible changes to Machine Games Duty in the Autumn Budget could affect business confidence and investment.
