CEO of BAGC Welcomes Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross to Hippodrome Casino

_{BAGC CEO Grainne Hurst welcomes Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross to the historic Hippodrome Casino. (Image: Courtesy of Grainne Hurst)}

The CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council, Grainne Hurst, welcomed Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross to the Hippodrome Casino on Friday, Feb 14, to tour the iconic venue, meet staff and learn more about the sector.

This year marks the 125th anniversary of the iconic London venue, which first opened in January 1900 with a show starring Charlie Chaplin and has gone on to present some of the West End’s boldest and most innovative new entertainments, including in its most recent incarnation as the legendary Hippodrome Casino.

UK land-based casinos, a pillar of the leisure and tourism sector, currently employ more than 10,000 people, cater to over 13 million customer visits each year, contribute £300m annually in taxes, and generate an estimated £800m a year for the economy.

The sector is now waiting on much-needed modernisation reforms outlined in the White Paper on payment methods, gaming machine allocations and allowing all casinos to offer sports betting, which will strengthen the sector to better meet the needs and expectations of their customers.

CEO’s Video Celebrates Casino Industry's Contribution to Economy  

In a video posted on the BAGC’s LinkedIn page, Hurst explains more about the UK's fantastic casino sector and how it can play a part in the nation's growth story. 

Grainne Hurst said, “I am delighted to be here at the Hippodrome Casino in an iconic landmark venue in the heart of London, celebrating its 125th year. It's been wowing crowds for over a century. 

"Whether that's the amazing fine dining restaurants or the outstanding shows, or just the ability for customers to come and pit their wits against the house on the gaming tables."

West End Casino Industry a Driving Force Behind Britain’s National Output

The West End's casino industry plays a crucial role in the UK's burgeoning experience economy, which is valued at £300 billion and is becoming a significant contributor to national output. At a recent Heart of London Business Alliance (HOLBA) event, industry leaders emphasised that the growth of casinos, particularly with plans for new gaming floors and substantial hotel refurbishments, is set to generate jobs and attract visitors. 

This evolving sector, once regarded as merely entertainment, is now recognised as a vital driver of economic growth, with 57% of people preferring to invest in experiences over material goods. As stakeholders work collaboratively to enhance the overall visitor experience, they also address challenges like infrastructure issues and rising costs. 

The West End casino industry not only fosters tourism and local employment but is also pivotal in reinforcing London's position as a global entertainment hub.  

Hurst said, “You can tell I am excited and proud of this event last week, as this is my second post about it, but it was an excellent engagement with our Gambling Minister Fiona Twycross (Baroness Twycross) at The Hippodrome Casino.   

“Alongside the Hippodrome’s Executive Chairman Simon Thomas, we toured the venue, met staff and learnt more about the UK’s incredible land-based casino sector, which is primed to play its part in the government’s growth agenda.”