During a Gambling Business Group panel at last month’s ARE expo, operators were encouraged to build stronger community ties and highlight their economic contribution to Britain’s struggling high streets.
The gambling sector has been urged to take lessons from the hospitality industry’s long-term approach to community engagement and public relations, following discussions at the recent High Street Hub at the ARE Expo.
The panel, organised by The Gambling Business Group, examined how the gambling industry could improve its public image and strengthen its position within local communities at a time when many town centres continue to face economic pressures.
“Our high streets need all the help they can get, and footfall encourages more footfall,” reflected GBG CEO Peter Hannibal. “There is much to learn from our colleagues in the Licenced Trade when we are up against a government that is doing nothing for small businesses.”
One of the key questions explored during the session was: “What would a 3-point plan look like for the gambling sector to win more hearts and minds?”
The discussion concluded that there was “no silver bullet and no overnight fix” when it came to changing public perceptions of the industry, with panellists instead emphasising the importance of “consistency, visibility and long-term engagement at both local and national level”.
Among the major themes discussed were the need to challenge perceptions using evidence and case studies, while also promoting the positive role gambling venues can play within communities through employment, charity work and their function as social spaces on the high street.
The panel also highlighted the importance of operators building closer relationships with councils, licensing authorities, Business Improvement District groups, Purple Flag partnerships and community organisations.
The Gambling Business Group added that operators should become “more visible within their local communities” and encourage venue managers to engage with initiatives linked to regeneration, crime reduction and safer socialising.
Speakers and contributors to the discussion included Sylvia Oates CBII, Andrew Green, Jim Cathcart and David Lucas, alongside representatives from the Institute of Licensing, with Coinslot’s Chris Jones chairing the panel.
Originally published on Coinslot on May 25, 2026. Republished with permission.