UK Casino Executives Highlight Risks of Machine Games Duty Hike at London Event

Executives from major UK casino operators gathered on 15 October 2026 at London’s Hippodrome Casino for a panel that focused on a proposed increase in Machine Games Duty from 20% to 40% and the effects such a change could have on ongoing modernisation efforts in the land-based sector. Genting Casinos COO Paul Willcock and Rank Group CEO Richard Harris joined other industry figures to outline how the doubling of the tax might influence investment plans, venue operations, and employment levels if it appears in the government’s autumn Budget later that month.

Details from the October 2026 Panel

Participants described the timing of the proposed duty rise as particularly challenging because operators have only recently begun to expand machine offerings and generate additional revenue following the 2025 land-based reforms. Data shared during the session indicated that several venues have already increased the number of gaming machines and recorded higher income, yet those gains could face reversal if tax costs rise sharply. Observers at the event noted that executives stressed the need for regulatory and fiscal stability before committing further capital, with Genting Casinos specifically positioned as ready to expand once certainty returns.

Potential Effects on Investment and Jobs

Industry representatives explained that higher Machine Games Duty would reduce the funds available for venue upgrades and new site development, which in turn could limit the creation or retention of thousands of positions across the country. A report presented at the panel outlined projected job impacts alongside public perception data on casinos, and this document has been made available through industry channels. One section of the discussion highlighted that without tax predictability, operators might scale back expansion projects that were already in early planning stages after the 2025 regulatory updates.

Richard Harris of the Rank Group pointed out that recent machine expansions have contributed directly to revenue growth at multiple locations, yet those same sites could struggle to maintain staffing levels if operating margins shrink under a 40% duty rate. Paul Willcock added that Genting Casinos remains prepared to increase its UK footprint, describing the company as eager to move forward with additional investments provided the tax environment does not introduce new uncertainties. Both executives emphasised that the sector’s ability to support local economies depends on maintaining viable cost structures during the current phase of modernisation.

Context of Post-2025 Reforms

The panel placed the proposed duty change against the backdrop of reforms implemented in 2025 that allowed greater flexibility in machine numbers and venue configurations. Those changes produced measurable increases in machine deployment and associated income at several major operators, according to figures discussed during the session. Executives argued that further progress on venue improvements and employment growth now hinges on whether the government maintains the existing 20% rate or proceeds with the suggested increase to 40%.

Representatives also referenced a survey contained in the panel report that examined both employment projections and broader public attitudes toward casino facilities. The document, hosted by the National Trade and Industry Association, provides additional detail on how tax adjustments might affect workforce planning across the sector. Operators present at the Hippodrome stated they would continue to monitor Budget announcements while reiterating their willingness to invest once fiscal conditions stabilise.

Conclusion

The 15 October 2026 panel at the Hippodrome Casino brought together senior figures from Genting Casinos and Rank Group to address the implications of a potential Machine Games Duty increase. Discussions centred on investment readiness, venue sustainability, and employment considerations in light of recent land-based reforms and the possibility of a 40% duty rate appearing in the autumn Budget. The event also featured supporting data from an industry report that examined job impacts and public perception, with the full document accessible via industry resources. Operators conveyed that tax and regulatory clarity remains essential for continued development of UK casino facilities.