The number of betting shops in the UK have remained stable for the last few years at around 6,000, and currently sit at just over 6,200 according to the latest regulatory information published. Made up of just over 500 smaller or independent bookmakers with the other 5,500 split between the main brands including Betfred, Paddy Power, Ladbrokes and William Hill.
Back in the 1970’s and 1980’s there were around 16,000 betting shops in the UK but with the increase in taxes and lower profitability these numbers have fallen. More information can be found on the betting shop statistics page.
Bookmakers on the high street
The 6,000 or so shops that exist currently make up around 4% of the UK’s entire retail units, despite recent news coverage regarding the number of betting shops on the UK high street this percentage is fairly low.
Currently there is a decline in traditional high street retailers which has resulted in some bookmakers moving back to prime locations, but as the economy picks back up and in turn high street rents, bookmakers will likely move their shops to less prime locations away from the main high street again.
The numbers do not include retail operations from within football grounds of which popularity has increased over recent years. With partnerships made between premier league clubs and UK bookmakers the relationship provided a synergy that was beneficial to both parties