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Merkur Slots UK has been ordered to pay a £95,000 fine, due to one of its British venue’s failing to meet its social responsibility standards
The penalty was imposed by UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) following an investigation that found that the Merkur venue had not interacted appropriately with a customer who gambled continuously from 1:50 PM to 6:43 PM on 1 November and again from 1:28 PM on 2 November until 12:57 AM on 3 November.
The investigation noted that the customer had lost £1,981 at Merkur’s adult gaming centre in Stockport. The UKGC determined this constituted a breach of its Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP).
Andrew Rhodes, CEO of the UKGC, stated: “This case clearly demonstrates an operator failing to comply with regulations designed to protect consumers from gambling-related harm.
“In recent years, online gambling operators have been penalised for social responsibility failings. This investigation highlights that land-based operators must also take action to reduce the risk of gambling harm.”
The UKGC found that Merkur’s Stockport premises failed to meet LCCP regulations, which require operators to proactively engage with customers and mitigate gambling-related risks.
Rhodes added: “All operators must ensure they have robust policies and procedures in place to prevent harm, and that staff are properly trained to implement them effectively.”
The UKGC acknowledged Merkur’s cooperation throughout the investigation. Merkur attributed the failure to premises staff not correctly applying company policies and procedures. The company has since taken immediate action to address these shortcomings at its Stockport venue.
UKGC seeks feedback on gaming machine standards and safety
This enforcement action aligns with the UKGC’s broader efforts to enhance safety in retail gambling. The Commission has launched a consultation on gaming machine technical standards and testing strategies, running from 29 January to 20 May.
This marks the UKGC’s third consultation under the implementation of the 2023 Gambling Act Review White Paper.
Tim Miller, UKGC Executive Director for Research and Policy, commented: “The White Paper prioritises ensuring gambling is conducted safely. We fully support this goal, and our latest consultation outlines how we plan to implement new standards in the land-based sector.”
The proposals include introducing five new standards, a licence condition, and a social responsibility code provision to help consumers use gaming machines safely at every stage of their journey.
