The UK gaming Commission (UKGC) has produced data on consumer gaming behavior in the United Kingdom in reaction to current environmental conditions. According to the research, gross gambling yield (GGY) increased by 5% year on year from January to March, reaching a stunning £1.3 billion ($1.39 billion). Regardless of economic conditions, evidence suggests that customers’ willingness to gamble remains robust, with actual event betting and online slots topping the industry’s growth.
Rise in Real Event Betting and Online Slots
According to the most recent data, sourced from operators representing roughly 80% of the online gambling market, the increase in GGY was driven by real event betting, particularly with the Cheltenham Festival, and online slots, which increased by 13% and 2%, respectively. Online slots generated a GGY of £551.7 million ($594.05 million), exceeding prior estimates. The total number of spins reached a record high of 19.5 billion during the quarter, representing a 9% rise.
According to the data, average monthly active accounts increased by 15% to 3.9 million, with a peak of 4.23 million in March. The number of spins each session reduced by 7% as a result of this increase as compared to the prior quarters. The total number of sessions over the three-month period increased significantly, reaching 137.86 million, showing increased participation in online gambling activities. However, the average session length was reduced to 17 minutes.
Segment Performance and Machine Gambling
While online slots and actual event betting grew, other gaming sectors, including casino games, saw a 3.49% decrease in GGY to £153.11 million ($164.8 million). Poker was also down 7.17% year on year. Machine gambling, which includes fixed-odds betting terminals, saw a 5% increase in GGY, hitting £292 million ($314.4 million). The average spend per session and the average number of spins per machine session both increased somewhat.
According to the report, the total number of customer interactions during the quarter decreased by 12% to 2.9 million, compared to the previous year. The vast majority of contacts, however, remained automated. Surprisingly, direct interactions with operators increased by 31%, demonstrating a proactive effort to client involvement and responsible gambling practices.
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