Flutter reviews 100 Paddy Power shops as 400 jobs face risk

Flutter Entertainment is examining the future of up to 100 Paddy Power betting outlets in the UK and Ireland, with staff fears that the equivalent of around 400 positions may be put at risk as the company deals with the effects of progressive gambling tax rises, escalating costs and toughening competition in the online gambling market. Flutter has stated that the rosters of the shops is under review, but with no decision coming on the furloughing or closing of stores. The workers at the shops on the shortlist are likely to be allowed to apply for alternative roles at its remaining outlets if, and where, this is possible. The review comes as the retail betting sector in the UK is still aiming to address the challenges of rising operating costs, competitive pressure and increased online gambling activity. A Flutter UK and Ireland spokesperson said: We are incredibly proud of our high street estate, and it remains a key part of our business in communities across the UK and Ireland. Unfortunately, we have had to take the extremely difficult decision to conduct this review. The company pointed to the increase in the Remote Gaming Duty in the UK, which is the main reason for increased taxation on online gambling revenues. Flutter’s spokesperson added: The high street trading environment has been challenging for a number of years given rising costs, fierce competition, economic uncertainty and the shift to online but we also face a material impact from the higher gambling taxes announced in last year’s UK Budget. Our immediate priority at this time is to support those colleagues affected by this announcement. The company also introduced a change at the top of the corporate hierarchy with the resignation of the CEO Peter Jackson and the elevation to this position of Dan Taylor. The Paddy Power review highlights the growing pressure on UK betting-shop operators as higher taxes and changing customer behaviour reshape the retail gambling market.