Come On In, Sit Down And Play!
Today heralds a major change in the UK’s gambling laws, and a major change in access rights for the UK consumer. As of today gambling companies will be able to advertise in the national press and on TV, increase their jackpots and open their doors to members off the street. So will it really make a big difference?
While many will argue that today’s changes should have been made 30 years ago, they will have a massive impact upon the gambling industry (and the casino sector in particular). Consumers will have much more access, with many of the old time delays taken away, such as the 24 hour waiting period before joining a casino and actually being able to play, and gambling companies can now target the whole UK audience.
Since the changes were actually announced a few years ago, we have seen some major foreign investors target the UK for expansion into the gaming industry. Casinos, bookmakers and various gambling web sites have all come under the microscope with many changing hands at sky high prices. It seems as though the astute investors of the industry have been gearing up for this moment for some time!
While the industry is celebrating today’s changes, there are a number of associations who are concerned about the long term effects of gambling and the potential downside for those who become addicted. This has always been a concern of the gambling industry as well, with all operators acutely aware of their social responsibilities and obligations. Despite the relaxation of some rules, there are still a whole host of guidelines to ensure that all are able to enjoy gaming, and reducing the downside to society as much as possible.
It is still early days, although it will be interesting to see how today’s changes are received, and the long term impact.