The online gambling industry is currently one of the biggest in the UK. Reflecting on how it all started and how now numerous people participate in gambling makes for an exciting and informative journey both new and experienced players can enjoy.
In 1994, the first online casino was launched in the UK.
Even though the first online casinos were simple, they grew in popularity. Within a few years, more than 200 online casinos were up and running.
In 2005, the UK’s Gambling Act was drafted and came into force in 2007. It regulated how these online venues could operate and advertise, legalising the industry, worth £8.36 billion at the time.
The yearly revenue of the UK’s online gambling industry is £5.7 billion.
Online casinos make up 39.9% of the total gambling revenue of £14.2 billion. More than 25 million players are the driving force of the industry, with 10.5 million of them playing online. While the British people like various casino games like roulette, bingo, and poker, slots remain the most popular choice.
The online bingo, betting, and casino sector grew 8.1% in total, with online betting raking in £2.3 billion, nearly half of the overall yearly revenue.
Most people that gamble in the UK are between 45 and 52 years old.
The 25-34 age group, however, dominates UK’s online casinos, with 23.1% of them playing every month. Those from 35 to 54 years of age are also frequent online gambling participants, contributing 22% to the user base.
One of the main reasons for the industry’s growth was regulation. UK players can now enjoy casino games offered by the top online gambling venues without worrying about fairness and safety. The companies operating these websites and brick-and-mortar locations are regulated and respectable organisations, many of which are even listed on the London Stock Exchange.
Online gambling also has the advantage of being easily and always accessible while offering a wide range of gaming choices and perks to new and old members.
