Key Updates in the UK Gambling Industry: 2025 Reforms, Technology Advancements, and Industry Highlights
The UK gambling industry has recently experienced several significant developments:
Government Reforms and Industry Response
The UK Government has announced plans to implement a statutory levy on gambling profits, expected to generate over £100 million annually to support research, prevention, and treatment of gambling-related harms. Additionally, new stake limits for online slots will be introduced, capping stakes at £5 per spin for adults aged 25 and over, and £2 for those aged 18 to 24. The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has expressed support for these reforms but cautioned against misrepresenting the wider gambling industry, emphasizing that the majority of gamblers engage safely.
GAMSTOP Reports Record Registrations
GAMSTOP, the UK’s national self-exclusion scheme for online gambling, reported record-high registration numbers at the start of 2025. In response to user feedback, GAMSTOP introduced a ‘5 years with auto-renewal’ exclusion option, offering long-term protection for users concerned about the end of their exclusion periods. Since its launch in 2018, over 500,000 individuals have utilized GAMSTOP’s services.
Bet365 Executive Compensation
Denise Coates, joint chief executive of Bet365, received £158.7 million in total pay last year, a notable decrease from the previous year’s £270.7 million. Despite the reduction, over the past seven years, her combined salary from Bet365 has totalled around £1.7 billion. Bet365, a major employer in Stoke-on-Trent, has faced scrutiny for its impact on society due to problem gambling and was fined for failing to prevent potential money laundering. The company states it is committed to customer safety and regulation.
Technological Advancements in iGaming
Industry experts anticipate that 2025 will be a transformative year for iGaming companies, with a significant increase in technology adoption. As the iGaming consumer market matures, casinos and B2B suppliers are expected to increase their investments in technology to stay ahead of the curve.
Launch of New iGaming Platform
Jonathan Gauci, former senior vice president of engineering at Gaming Innovation Group (GiG), has introduced a new iGaming solution for operators through a Malta-headquartered venture named Elantil. This platform aims to provide innovative solutions within the iGaming industry.
These developments highlight the dynamic nature of the UK gambling industry, with ongoing regulatory changes, technological advancements, and significant industry movements shaping its future landscape.