MERKUR UK has praised Bacta for leading the land-based gambling sector’s ongoing commitment to player protection, following the introduction of the new self-exclusion prompt for compatible B3 machines. The company’s Tony Boulton said the initiative demonstrates how technology, staff engagement and industry collaboration can work together to enhance safer gambling standards.
MERKUR UK has acknowledged Bacta for taking the lead in player protection and demonstrating the land-based sector’s commitment to social responsibility.
Speaking after participating in Tuesday’s Bacta webinar which was held to explain details of the new player prompt system for compatible B3 machines, Tony Boulton, MERKUR UK’s Director of Public and Political Relations said: “The new on-screen prompt which asks customers to confirm whether they are currently self-excluded before play begins, is the latest example of a wider programme of enhancements to the industry’s player protection undertakings.
“I felt that the webinar showed a high level of member engagement, with AGC owners keen to clarify operational issues, ask technical questions as well as confirm timelines and details of the roll-out. What the webinar clearly demonstrated is the seriousness with which the industry sees its player protection responsibilities and the central importance of Bacta in developing and deploying initiatives that will make a real difference.”
Outlining how technology is contributing to the debate Tony Boulton noted: “Whilst new technologies are powering social responsibility they should be deployed to support venue staff and not to replace the personal engagement that exists in-venue and which is so powerful.
“Social Responsibility is a journey which doesn’t have a final destination and Bacta’s on-screen prompt is one of the legs of that journey alongside initiatives such as the Bacta SR Exchange, Bacta’s sponsorship of Safer Gambling Week and the progressive working relationship the trade association enjoys with both DCMS and the Commission.” He added: “An integrated player protection and self-exclusion programme is good for business: it strengthens consumer confidence by demonstrating that player welfare is a core industry priority rather than just a compliance requirement. By combining staff training, self-exclusion, data sharing and the deployment of technology, Bacta member businesses are able to balance consumer choice with robust responsible gambling safeguards.”
Protection for all
Tony Boulton said… “An integrated player protection and self-exclusion programme is good for business: it strengthens consumer confidence by demonstrating that player welfare is a core industry priority rather than just a compliance requirement…
Originally published on Coinslot on June 8, 2026. Republished with permission.