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Paddy Power to Close 57 Betting Shops, 250 Jobs at Risk

10/19/2025

24 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Paddy Power, part of Flutter Entertainment, will close 57 betting shops in the UK and Ireland due to rising costs, risking nearly 250 jobs.
The closures affect 29 shops in UK, 28 in Ireland, and one in Northern Ireland; staff were informed on October 14 with redeployment offered.
Flutter Entertainment says closures are not tied to gambling tax increases, but hikes could affect jobs and push customers to unlicensed operators.

History

Historical Context

The Gambling Act of 2005 reformed UK gambling laws, introducing regulations for online gambling and protecting vulnerable individuals. By 2019, over 8,000 betting shops operated in the UK, reflecting a significant industry expansion. However, the recent closure of 57 Paddy Power shops underscores ongoing challenges, including rising costs and regulatory concerns, potentially driving customers to unlicensed alternatives.

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Story summary

Paddy Power, part of Flutter Entertainment, will close 57 betting shops in the UK and Ireland due to rising costs, risking nearly 250 jobs.
The closures affect 29 shops in UK, 28 in Ireland, and one in Northern Ireland; staff were informed on October 14 with redeployment offered.
Flutter Entertainment says closures are not tied to gambling tax increases, but hikes could affect jobs and push customers to unlicensed operators.

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