TLDR Betfred will close 132 betting shops in the UK, putting around 600 jobs at risk. The closures mark more than 10% of Betfred’s total estate, leaving about 1,100 shops open. Betfred blames higher National Insurance costs, wage inflation, and rising gambling taxes for the decision. The UK government raised remote gaming duty from 21% to 40%, with online sports betting duty set to rise to 25% in 2027. Rivals William Hill, Paddy Power, and Ladbrokes have also announced shop closures in recent months.
Betfred has confirmed it will close 132 betting shops across the United Kingdom. The closures will begin in September and put around 600 jobs at risk.
The company started a consultation process with staff on July 31. The closures represent just over 10% of Betfred’s total shop count.
Once the closures are complete, Betfred will run about 1,100 shops. That is down from around 1,680 shops at its peak in 2017.
Betfred was founded in 1967 by brothers Fred and Peter Done. The company is based in Warrington and employs around 7,500 people.
Why Betfred Is Closing Shops
Betfred pointed to rising costs as the main reason for the closures. These include higher employer National Insurance contributions, wage inflation, and increased gambling taxes.
Chief Executive Jo Whittaker said the company tried hard to protect all its sites. She said the combined pressure of these costs left the company with no other choice.
Whittaker said the shops being closed are well run and staffed by committed employees. She said the company will now focus on supporting affected staff.
Fred Done, whose family wealth is estimated at £3.61 billion, called the tax changes the biggest threat he has faced in nearly six decades in the industry.
The UK government’s autumn budget raised the remote gaming