Finnish gambling monopoly Veikkaus will reduce the number of slot machines it operates across Finland as part of a broader plan to reduce problem gambling.
The Veikkaus board of directors approved a plan to cut the number of slots by an estimated 3,500, as well as pushing for compulsory identification in order for customers to play slots and other games.
“Responsible gaming measures have been planned and will continue to be numerous in the coming year,” Veikkaus Director of Responsibility Pekka Ilmivalta said. “We will be involved in the planning of this work, for example, with those dealing with gambling problems, as well as with addiction experts.”
The body will also do more to promote responsible gambling, and tie responsible gambling results to performance-based bonuses for management.
Veikkaus has acknowledged that the changes could lead to a €50 million (US$55.6 million) decline in earnings.
