Entain is to shut down its TAB Racing Club in New Zealand just one year after the venue first opened its doors to customers.
TAB Racing Club only launched in September 2024, modeled after Ladbrokes Racing Club in Australia. However, Entain Australia and New Zealand chief executive Andrew Vouris said the venue will soon close.
The New Zealand Herald reported that during its short life, the facility secured 18,000 New Zealand TAB customers as members. Despite this, Entain maintained concerns over running costs and not fitting in with its wider business plan.
TAB Racing Club currently has 28 thoroughbred and standardbred horses in its ownership. Entain has already launched a process to sell these horses, stating animal welfare will be its key priority.
‘Disciplined’ Decision to Shut TAB Racing Club
Vouris said the closure represented a “disciplined, responsible decision.” He added that shutting the venue will allow Entain to get “back to basics” of selling bets and delivering strong returns to the New Zealand racing industry.
“We are focused on our core business of responsibly selling bets and creating innovative products, while ensuring the horses are well cared for with their new owners, and our customers enjoy the experiences they’ve already secured,” Vouris said.
“This decision is about discipline, focus and doing what’s right for the long term – winning, but not at all costs.”
Entain said it will honor all existing club experiences through to the end of New Zealand Cup Week in Christchurch in November.
