Betfred to close 132 UK betting shops and cut more than 600 jobs

Betfred is preparing to close 132 betting shops across the UK and cut more than 600 jobs as part of a restructuring of its retail business.

The closures, which are expected to begin in September following a consultation process, represent just over 10 per cent of the bookmaker’s estate. Betfred will continue to operate approximately 1,100 shops across the country.

Chief executive Joanne Whittaker said the decision had been taken with “deep regret”, pointing to higher gambling taxes, increased employer National Insurance contributions, wage inflation and economic uncertainty.

The company warned ahead of the government’s Autumn 2025 Budget that substantial increases in gambling duties could lead to shop closures. Remote gaming duty subsequently increased from 21 to 40 per cent, while a new 25 per cent online sports betting duty is due to take effect in April 2027.

The closures could also cost British horseracing approximately £4m annually in levy and media-rights payments, based on an estimated contribution of £30,000 from each shop. BetFred will continue to operate over 1,100 betting shops in the UK and employee over 6,900 staff after the changes.