BGC campaign hits home as Scottish government lifts betting shop restrictions
Covid-19 restrictions on chairs, gaming machines and live racing coverage will end on 22 July
The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has welcomed the Scottish government’s decision to end significant restrictions on the country’s betting shops.
Scotland’s bookmakers were initially allowed to reopen their doors on 29 June, but have been subject to severe restrictions, including the removal of all chairs and switching off all gaming machines.
In addition, bookies were barred from showing live racing on TV in a move which the BGC claimed led to a 95% reduction in betting shop turnover.
Earlier this month, the BGC warned the Scottish government that the country’s 900 betting shops and 4,500 employees were at risk due to what it described as “draconian” restrictions being placed on operators.
The trade body had also claimed Scotland’s horseracing industry could be at risk, due to the absence of media rights revenue as a result of the restrictions.
However, the Scottish government confirmed on Friday that betting shop restrictions will no longer apply from 22 July.
All shops will still follow strict Covid-19 mitigation measures however, such as hand sanitisers, screens and social distancing rules.
BGC CEO Michael Dugher welcomed the positive update for Scotland’s bookmakers as they continue to recover financially following the relaxation of restrictions.
“We have always said that the extra restrictions imposed on Scottish betting shops were unnecessary. We are delighted that the Scottish government has listened and responded,” said Dugher.
“Betting shops in Scotland can now look forward to playing their part in helping to kickstart the economy, supporting Scottish racing and providing a safe environment for customers who enjoy a flutter,” Dugher added.
EGR Intel last week explored the future of the retail sector after the safe reopening of betting shops in England.