Even now that venues are open and operating, online casinos continue to generate huge amounts of revenue from players that started playing during the pandemic.
The recent pandemic caused some major economic issues in the UK. However, the iGaming industry was one that actually prospered during this time. With people stuck at home and unable to visit land venues, online gambling activities drastically increased over the past two years. Even now that venues are open and operating, online casinos continue to generate huge amounts of revenue from players that started playing during the pandemic.
Before the pandemic, online gaming was considered a pastime that socially isolated people. Since businesses closed down and social distancing was required, gamblers found a way to interact with others through online gaming. Whether they chatted during live casino games or engaged on forums, online games quickly became a way to pass time and communicate with others.
Studies have shown that there has been an increase of more than 200% in those over the age of 60 who are now playing online games as a result of pandemic shutdowns.
Why online sites attracted players
Offline gambling was not available during the pandemic. Major casinos including some of the newest online casinos throughout the UK were closed and revenues plummeted as a result. However, the casinos that were affiliated with online sites did not suffer. In fact, the number of people playing games at online casinos increased since games were easily accessible.
Casino sites took advantage of the surge of new members and provided appealing welcome bonuses to lure in new players. Many sites featured a £1 deposit bonus for those who created an account. With attractive bonuses and the ability to play games for cash payouts, the online gambling industry in the UK grew rapidly.
Increased gambling addictions
Despite revenue being generated through online playing, the UK saw a huge spike in gambling addictions as a result of the pandemic. Those with gambling problems reported playing more online due to boredom. There was less work available and more free time. This led to an increase in screen time and many new accounts being created at UK gambling websites.
With the ease of access and multiple ways to fund accounts, the UK saw a gambling crisis as a result of COVID. People working from home had easy access to sites at all times and often lacked the discipline to gamble responsibly. Many say this was a way to make money during a time when they were otherwise losing it from job losses and shutdowns.
The increase in problem gambling did not stop when the shutdown ended. In fact, the UK is still seeing increased numbers. This is largely due to sports events now being played and the growing sports betting industry online. Gamblers continue to place large bets on sports teams as well as at online casinos, increasing the number of gambling addictions every month.
Overall gambling participation has returned to pre-pandemic levels, but the UK Addiction Treatment Group reports an increase in problem gambling, especially among those aged 16 to 24. Recently, a study revealed that problem gamblers in that age group have risen to 1.4% from 0.4% in 2021.
