The U.K.’s gaming industry will create 15,000 tech jobs over the next five years, according to a report issued by the Purpose Coalition for the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC).
The report also touted the gaming sector’s effect on “leveling up” the economy outside of London. It notes that the sector employs 10,000 high-skilled jobs and supports another 30,000 but will probably see future growth outside of the capital. It names several communities that are hosting online gaming companies, such as Leeds, where Sky Bet is based.
BGC CEO Michael Dugher said the only thing that threatens even more job creation would be “poorly conceived regulations that hamper business and threaten jobs.” Many in the industry fear the Gambling Act Review, and what major changes it might lead to.
Lord Walney, chairman of the Purpose Coalition, commented, “The sector now faces a fresh challenge of persuading the government to modernize its regulatory framework in a way that allows its positive economic impact to continue despite tighter restrictions to protect vulnerable consumers.”
