In a recent address, Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross discussed the government’s ongoing efforts with the Gambling Commission to scrutinize the “extent and effects” of white-label operators in the UK. This announcement was made during her inaugural public appearance at GambleAware’s annual conference since assuming her current position over the summer. Baroness Twycross emphasized Labour’s dedication to mitigating gambling-related harm.
Throughout her comprehensive speech, she highlighted concerns about gambling advertisements in UK sports, transitioning into a discussion about white-label operators. She stated, “I am conscious of the growing number of ‘white label’ operators using football in this country to reach consumers beyond Great Britain. We are working with the Gambling Commission and industry experts to collect additional data on their impact. Should further measures be required, we will not hesitate to take action.”
White-label operators have historically been able to secure front-of-shirt sponsorship agreements with Premier League teams, primarily aiming to market to customers outside the UK, notably in Asia. TGP Europe, the UK’s largest white-label provider, operates under a licence from the Gambling Commission, allowing various Asia-focused operators to establish a presence in the UK and sponsor Premier League clubs. Their partners include BJ88 sponsoring Bournemouth, Stake for Everton, SBOTOP for Fulham, and DEBET for Wolves.
Additionally, TGP Europe facilitated white-label agreements for Nottingham Forest’s partner Kaiyun Sports and Leicester City’s sponsor BC.Game. Nonetheless, these arrangements are currently inactive, and neither company is operational in the UK. BC.Game is also involved in a bankruptcy case in Curaçao, which may lead to the revocation of its licence from the island nation.
Crystal Palace’s sponsor, Net88, is partnered with Risq Capital, while Southampton’s partner, Rollbit, is active in the UK through Grace Media. Betano, recognized as a leading market player in Brazil, engages in the UK via a white-label deal with BVGroup, also sponsoring Aston Villa in a high-value agreement.
Baroness Twycross also plans to examine “large-scale prize draws,” a sector highlighted by Gambling Commission CEO Andrew Rhodes as being under increased scrutiny following government concerns. She stated, “While these draws, like those offered by Omaze, are not governed by the Gambling Act, I want companies participating in these events to ensure consumer protection and transparency. I will be engaging with the sector to maintain high standards.”
In her speech, the minister also announced that the Department of Health and Social Care and the Gambling Commission will collaborate on a new strategy for safer gambling messaging, arguing that industry-led management of the issue is unsustainable. “This is a reasonable and measured request of the industry, and I appreciate the Betting and Gaming Council’s cooperation thus far. I anticipate further advertising initiatives and plan to meet with them in the new year to continue discussions.”
Moreover, she confirmed Labour’s commitment to the recommendations of the Gambling Act 2005 review white paper, noting that despite their opposition status previously, their support remains steadfast now in government.
In closing, Baroness Twycross expressed her aspiration for a “better, safer gambling industry,” urging collective responsibility to face these challenges together. She pledged to continue conversations and collaboration in pursuit of this goal, anticipating progress in the coming weeks and months.