The gambling industry has evolved substantially in recent years. The introduction of online gambling, increased variety of games, and more advanced safety measures, has led to nearly half of Brits (48%) participating in some form of gambling.

With a rich history and interesting future, let’s take a look at how gambling has changed over the past couple of decades, why it’s become so popular, and what’s next for UK gamblers. 

A brief history of UK gambling 

Gambling in the UK dates back to the 16th century. However, it first grew in popularity in the 18th century, particularly amongst the upper and middle classes. 

The most significant change in gambling history came in 1960, when betting became legalised. By the end of 1961, there were over 10,000 betting shops in the UK. 1,000 casinos were also set up within the first five years, the first of which is thought to have been The Casino Club in Port Talbot, Wales. 

In the early 1920s, football pools really took off. This remained one of the most popular forms of gambling until 1994, when the National Lottery was introduced and surpassed the popularity of football pools. 

The late 1990s saw a continuation of traditional gambling and a rise in online gambling, as internet access became apparent in more and more homes across the country. 

Modern gambling 

Gambling in the UK has grown considerably in the last decade. Between 2013 and 2023, there was a 200% increase in the total gross gambling yield (GGY), with the figure reaching £15.2 billion between April 2022 and March 2023. 

The growth of the gambling industry could be down to several factors.

1. Tax-free betting

Before 2001, punters had to pay tax on their winnings. However this was changed by Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, in 2001. Now the betting companies are taxed, and not individual players. The chance to win £1000s of tax-free money likely elevated the appeal of gambling for many people across the UK.

2. Increased access

The introduction of online gambling meant having to physically visit a betting shop or bingo hall was no longer necessary. With 24/7 access to gambling from the comfort of your own home, it now couldn’t be quicker or easier to place a bet.

3. Social connection

Despite the rise of online gambling, non-remote options are still popular, particularly with games such as bingo, which maintain a strong social element. Surprisingly, the younger generation are a large part of that demographic, with double the amount of 25-35 years olds visiting a bingo club in 2022 compared to 2018. 

4. Safety and regulation 

The UK Gambling Act of 2005 further propelled the online industry. As more regulations were put in place and player protection increased, it felt safer to participate and gambling possibly became more attractive to players in the UK. 

How technology has altered the gambling industry 

Technology has advanced dramatically in the last couple of decades and with that, the gambling industry has evolved alongside it. 

Unbeatable convenience 

94% of people in the UK over the age of 16 own a smartphone and the ability to gamble online has meant you can play anytime, anywhere. It’s now easier than ever to use online casinos, play the lottery, and enjoy mobile gambling, and there’s no doubt this has contributed to the increase in gambling participation.

Rise of non-GamStop casinos 

Whilst the strengthening of safety and security has been attractive to some and tighter regulations have been helpful for those unable to manage their gambling habits, it has been less favourable for others. The restrictions put in place have reduced the overall enjoyment for some UK gamblers. 

Non-GamStop casinos aren’t regulated by the UK Gambling Commission, therefore don’t follow the same restrictions as regulated casinos. Using non-GamStop casinos means you can gamble even with an active self-exclusion, use payment options such as credit cards and cryptocurrency, submit higher bets, and leverage better bonuses. These differences have led to a growth in the popularity of casinos not on GamStop.

Surge in cryptogambling 

Digital currencies have become more widespread in the last few years due to their enhanced security and faster, cheaper transactions. The rise in digital currencies has caused a surge in crypto gaming and now crypto and bitcoin casinos are increasing in popularity in the UK. 

Introduction of virtual reality casinos 

Virtual reality (VR) technology has become more developed in recent years and the use of VR has now entered the gambling world. Virtual reality casinos replicate the atmosphere of a physical casino, allowing you to immerse yourself in the gambling experience without leaving your living room. 

What does the future hold for gamblers in the UK?

The UK gambling industry has steadily risen in the last decade and with the advancement of technology, things like VR casinos and crypto gambling will become more sought-after. 

However, with the government’s aims to create a safer environment for gamblers, tighter restrictions, as seen in the 2023 Gambling white paper, could deter people and encourage the use of unregulated casinos.