Tax changes for adult gaming centres
In his inaugural budget, Chancellor John Healey raised the machine games duty levied on slot machines from 20% to 25%. The Treasury stated the measure is expected to generate nearly £150m a year. In addition to the duty increase, adult gaming centres and vape shops were excluded from business rates relief, a step estimated to cost them a combined £10m.
Industry response and market reaction
Entain, the owner of Ladbrokes, stated it expects a £25m hit from the tax change, with bookmakers warning the measure could lead to shop closures. However, shares in listed gambling operators including Entain, Evoke and Rank Group rose following the budget after investors avoided a higher 40% rate anticipated by some. Trade body Bacta defended its members, stating that venues maintain robust player protection measures and operate under strict licensing regimes.