n a recent press release, the IBA reported that only 721 licensed betting shops remain in operation nationwide—a significant drop from previous years. Since the gambling tax was increased from 1% to 2%, 138 betting shops have closed, with 10 more shutting down so far in 2025 alone.
Retail Betting in Crisis as Shops Close Across Ireland
Retail betting shops across Ireland are closing at an alarming rate, prompting urgent warnings from industry representatives. The Irish Bookmakers Association (IBA) has called on the government to reconsider further increases to gambling taxes in the upcoming 2026 Budget, citing rising operational costs, shifting consumer behavior, and a tax burden that threatens the survival of the sector.
In a recent press release, the IBA reported that only 721 licensed betting shops remain in operation nationwide—a significant drop from previous years. Since the gambling tax was increased from 1% to 2%, 138 betting shops have closed, with 10 more shutting down so far in 2025 alone.
“These closures have directly resulted in the loss of more than 700 jobs,” the IBA stated,
“many of which were located in small towns and rural communities.”
Taxation and Regulation Driving Closures
IBA Chair Sharon Byrne told SiGMA News that the industry’s contraction stems from a combination of economic and political pressures. While she acknowledged a shift toward online gambling, Byrne emphasized the outsized role of taxation policy:
“Before 2019, the number of retail closures had stabilized. But since the tax was doubled, we’ve seen shop closures rise dramatically.”
She added that the rising cost of operations, coupled with increased fiscal pressure, has pushed many licensed operators to the brink.
Despite this, the industry has expressed broad support for the newly established Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI).
“We fully welcome and support the regulator,” Byrne noted,
“but we must also recognize the compliance costs it will bring. Ensuring these costs are reasonable and reflect the sector’s tax contribution is essential.”
Worsening Forecast for 2026
The IBA warns that any further tax increases would have devastating consequences:
“Our internal projections indicate that if the 2026 Budget includes another increase, we could see an additional 200–250 shop closures and 1,000–1,250 job losses.”
The press release continues:
“This would not only jeopardize thousands of livelihoods but also undermine the social and economic fabric of Irish towns and communities.”
Rising Risk of Black Market Gambling
Beyond the threat to employment, the IBA cautioned against unintended side effects of overly aggressive taxation and regulation:
“Without a sustainable tax and regulatory framework, licensed operators will collapse, jobs will be lost, and customers may turn to unregulated black market providers,” Byrne warned.
The IBA echoed this in its official statement:
“An increase in gambling taxes will inevitably lead to more licensed operators exiting the market—accelerating the shift of customers to the black market, weakening consumer protection and reducing government tax receipts.”
Retail Betting Shops Still Serve a Vital Role
Despite the online shift, retail betting outlets remain vital in many communities.
“Licensed betting shops continue to play a central role in many Irish towns,” Byrne said.
“They attract adult patrons, fulfill entertainment demand, and provide a social environment for both customers and staff.”
Call for Government Intervention
The IBA is calling for immediate engagement with policymakers:
“We’ve been actively engaging with stakeholders since proposing the retention of the current 2% tax rate,” said Byrne.
“We will continue to provide data and insights to support sound policymaking and ensure the sustainable, responsible growth of the Irish gambling sector.”
