The U.K. Gambling Commission (UKGC) has unveiled new rules aimed at improving the safety and transparency of consumer promotional offers. These changes are set to bring greater clarity and protection to individuals engaging with gambling operators.
Key measures include:
Ban on Mixed Product Promotions: Gambling businesses will no longer offer bonuses that require customers to engage in two or more types of gambling activities, such as betting and playing slots. Research indicates that gambling across multiple products increases the risk of harm and can confuse consumers with complex terms and conditions. This ban is designed to promote fairness and openness while reducing risks.
Limit on Wagering Requirements: Operators will now face restrictions on bonus wagering conditions, capping them at 10 times the original bonus amount. For instance, a £10 bonus with a 50x wagering requirement previously required £500 in bets before withdrawal of winnings was permitted. This cap simplifies offers, reduces the risk of harm, and ensures greater transparency without compromising consumer choice.
Additionally, the UKGC will revise the structure and wording of Social Responsibility Code 5.1.1 (Rewards and Bonuses) within the License Conditions and Codes of Practice to better outline expectations for operators. Full details of these revisions are available in the Commission’s response document.
These updates align with the 2023 White Paper High Stakes: Gambling Reform for the Digital Age and will be implemented on 19 December 2025.
Tim Miller, Executive Director for Research and Policy at the UKGC, stated: “These changes will better protect consumers from gambling harm and give consumers much better clarity on, and certainty of, offers before they decide to sign up.”
