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UKGC: Information for operators re-opening land-based gambling premises

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As restrictions on the lockdown ease the UKGC has published a number of frequently asked questions covering its expectations from land-based operators.

These FAQs are aimed at helping operators manage compliance with Government guidance on reopening with continued compliance with the Licence conditions and codes of practice (LCCP).

The Commission is also reminding operators they are still expected to continue to follow Customer Interaction guidance as doors are reopened to consumers.

Frequently asked questions

Which premises can open from 15 June?

Just betting offices in England are able to open from 15 June.

 

Do Operators still have to meet all the Gambling Act and LCCP requirements?

Yes, there are no changes to operators’ obligations. We therefore expect operators to have confidence in their ability to be fully compliant with our requirements when they reopen. Where we find evidence of non-compliance, we will take swift action.  

 

Will the Commission undertake premises-based assessments?

The Commission’s approach will support the following Government objectives as set out in guidance:

  • To minimise the contact resulting from visits to stores or outlets
  • To minimise the number of unnecessary visits to offices
  • To minimise non-essential travel

This means that the Commission will look to obtain premises information by remote means. This includes requesting electronic data or recordings and where possible/necessary undertaking Skype meetings.

 

Will Licensing Authorities undertake premises-based assessments?

LA requirements remain the same. Individual LAs will undertake their own risk assessments and implement policies and procedures accordingly.

 

Who do I report my concerns to if I think government Covid-19 guidelines are not being followed correctly?

The Gambling Commission is not responsible for addressing breaches of Covid19 guidance. The Health & Safety Executive (HSE), Local Authorities, and local Police Forces (England & Wales only) have the relevant information on their websites.

 

Risk Assessments 

General business risk assessment

Whilst not a requirement, we would expect operators to consider the risks posed to compliance with the Act, LCCP and associated guidance. As such we may seek evidence to support this.

 

Do operators need to review their premises [local] risk assessment(s)?

Operators may have to implement changes to manage social distancing and to protect staff and customers. Where these changes are significant, and could affect the mitigation of local risks, operators must review and where necessary update their risk assessments.

 

Do operators need to update their AML risk assessment?

Land based operators in the regulated sector are required to regularly review their AML risk assessments. Casinos are not reopening in June, but we would expect them to review the risks when they do. Operators in the unregulated sector are expected to review the risks and if required update any risk assessments.

 

Premises  

What do operators need to consider if they are putting screens around machines for customer protection?

Operators must ensure that whatever measures they put in place to socially distance customers, staff can continue to supervise the premises, monitor customers behaviour for signs of gambling-related harm and monitor compliance with age-restrictions.

 

Do the social distancing rules mean customer interactions are suspended?

No. Operators must ensure that staff can and do undertake customer interactions that are meaningful and effective and that they comply with the LCCP and with our Customer Interaction guidance .

 

Do operators still need to undertake Age Verification (AV) check programs?

Operators are still required to undertake these programs. Suppliers (e.g. Serve Legal) could also be undertaking their own business risk assessments that may require changes to the process.

 

If customers are wearing PPE (facemasks), are operators still required to undertake AV checks?

Yes, Government guidance states that customers can be asked to remove their masks for AV checks. If customers refuse, then staff should follow operator guidance on refusing service.

 

If customers are wearing PPE (facemasks), are operators still required to enforce self-exclusions?

Yes. There are no changes to an operator’s responsibilities.  Operators are expected to review their policies and procedures and to take a pragmatic approach.

 

Can operators move their gaming machines to allow for social distancing? Where plans submitted to LA stipulate specific areas for machines (most likely betting shops) operators must contact the LA for advice first.

Can operators expand the use of TITO?

We expect full and proper supervision of these facilities, in particular the monitoring for potential money laundering or safer gambling issues. Operators must ensure that they can evidence appropriate controls when installing TITO and all gaming machines must comply with the relevant technical standards.

 

Can betting operators increase the number of SSBTs?

We expect full and proper supervision of these facilities. In particular the monitoring for potential money laundering or safer gambling issues. Provided operators can evidence appropriate controls when installing SSBTs, use can be expanded. 

 

Can operators replace safer gambling messaging (posters/leaflets etc.) with social distancing/Covid 19 messaging?

Our guidance on the provision and display of information has not changed.

 

Will the Commission suspend test-purchasing?

We will continue to carry out test-purchasing to identify those that are operating unlawfully.

 

What will the Commission do about the period of time during which there were no test-purchase exercises?

We do not want operators to be disadvantaged and so we will be calculating results only for the periods during which premises are open.

 

Staff  

What happens if staff will not or cannot undertake customer interactions due to social distancing or Covid 19 concerns?

Operators must ensure customer interactions take place. Staffing issues are a matter for individual operators, but our expectation is that they are confident in their abilities to meet all of our requirements, including customer interactions, when they reopen. Where we find evidence of non-compliance, we will take swift action.  

 

What happens if a PML goes sick with C-19 or has to self-isolate?

Our expectation is that operators will have in place contingency plans. So long as this is the case, wherever possible the Commission will be flexible on arrangements.

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Playson casts its lucky charm in 4 Pots Riches: Hold and Win

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New Super Pots Bonus Game among thrilling features in highly anticipated sequel

Playson, the accomplished digital entertainment supplier, welcomes the return of its lucky leprechaun in the charming new release, 4 Pots Riches: Hold and Win, with the mischievous figure on hand to elevate wins with a host of enriched features.

The highlight is the Super Pot Bonus Game, which is triggered by the Super Clover Bonus Symbol. It begins with an expanded 5×5 grid, which offers more space for Bonus symbols and Pot Features. This special mode includes one or more Pot Features and gives players the chance to win the Super Jackpot of 10,000x by filling all 25 cells.

During the Hold and Win Bonus Game, players can activate one or more of the following three Pot Features:

Multi Feature – Violet Clover Bonus applies up to three multipliers (x2, x3, x5) to enhance payouts.

Collect Feature – Blue Clover Bonus gathers all visible symbol values and adds them to its own.

Mystery Feature – Red Clover Bonus reveals Mini, Minor, or Major Jackpots, or high-value prizes up to 75x.

In all Bonus Games, players can aim to land 15 Bonus symbols to win the Grand Jackpot (3,000x). The Golden Pot may also appear and transform into an additional Clover Bonus symbol to boost feature potential.

The random appearance of Mini, Minor or Grand Jackpots during bonus play can also trigger one of three corresponding in-game jackpots, whilst the Grand Jackpot stands at 3,000x in the Bonus Game and 10,000x in the Super Pot Bonus.

Through its folklore adventure, Playson underlines its ability to introduce captivating new iterations to its beloved 3 Pots family, blending stimulating audiovisual effects with mechanics that have proven a global success with players.

Tamas Kusztos, CCO at Playson, said: “4 Pots Riches: Hold and Win brings fresh Irish charm to one of our most popular game series, combining player-favourite mechanics with exciting new features like the Super Pot Bonus Game.

“With its vibrant theme and generous modifiers, this release showcases our commitment to evolving gameplay while maintaining the core entertainment that our players love.”

The post Playson casts its lucky charm in 4 Pots Riches: Hold and Win appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Just Slots Brings the Party with New Game Launch, ‘Unholy Mystery’

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Just Slots, a Malta based iGaming software developer, has announced the launch of its latest title, ‘Unholy Mystery’, set to release on 7 August. Building on strong momentum, this marks Just Slots’ fifth release since the breakout success of their debut game, Sugar Heaven.

Following the ominous world of their last release, Book of Arcane 100, Unholy Mystery gives the theme a playful twist by blending dark undertones with a party-like atmosphere and a bold visual style that feels like a monster birthday jamboree. Just Slots stays true to its roots with a familiar reelset and fan favourite features like Hotspin and Bonus Buys, both proven hits with players. To make it a standout experience, unique features and mystery symbols have been added to the mix. All the mystery symbols landing on the reels reveal the same symbol, and may include multipliers up to 100x, giving huge winning potential with every spin.

The game features a cast of interesting characters, adding personality to the experience. During the free spins, the background comes alive, bursting with vibrant colours and playful animations that showcase exceptional attention to detail, making every frame a feast for the eyes. The game is brought to life by music compositions that complement the experience, making each spin feel like part of a celebration.

Commenting on the release, Christine Parkhill, CCO at Just Slots said: “Unholy Mystery continues our mission to surprise and delight players with each new title. Despite the dark undertones, this release takes a more playful turn, combining rich visuals, a festive tone and mechanics our players love. With fresh twists like powerful mystery symbols and vibrant art direction, we’ve aimed to create an experience that is entertaining and full of surprise. It’s a celebration of what makes gaming fun, and we can’t wait to see how our players respond.”

Just Slots continues to surprise and reinvent with bold new themes and distinctive game concepts, ranging from the candy coated charm of Sugar Heaven, to the historical fantasy of Shogun Skylord, the futuristic mythology of Cyber Egypt and the mystical allure of Book of Arcane 100. Unholy Mystery will go live on the 7 August and will be playable on leading sites such as Gamdom.com, Stake.com, CasinoDays.com, 500.casino, Bitcasino, Sportsbet.io and more. A playable demo will also be available on Just Slots’ website, inviting players to jump into the party early and get a taste of the fun packed mystery.

The post Just Slots Brings the Party with New Game Launch, ‘Unholy Mystery’ appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Interwetten becomes team partner of SK Rapid

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Yellow and black meets green and white! Interwetten becomes SK Rapid’s new team partner. The online sports betting pioneer and Austria’s most popular football club are starting the new season together. The combination with Rapid coach Peter Stöger, who has been an Interwetten expert for many years and will also remain on the sidelines, makes the partnership a real success.

With more than 24,000 club members and over 220 official fan clubs, the Austrian record champions boast the largest fan base in the country! And with the Allianz Stadium in Vienna’s West Hütteldorf, the Green-Whites boast a modern home! Interwetten is expanding its extensive football commitment to include a traditional club and will now be present at SK Rapid’s home games on a ball display or 3D carpet in the stadium, as well as on the Hütteldorf club’s digital channels.

“We are very pleased about the new team partnership with SK Rapid. The connection to a club with great charisma and passion is a perfect fit for Interwetten. And the best part: With our long-time expert Peter Stöger, we already have Rapid’s coach on board ,” explains Interwetten Marketing Director Dieter Grück , who promises fans a comprehensive experience in addition to betting.

Grück adds : “We are planning various digital activations throughout the season that will offer our customers and Rapid fans unique experiences. This will certainly include exclusive promotions with Peter Stöger. With this, we want to underline our connection with Austrian football.”

SK Rapid Managing Director Steffen Hofmann warmly welcomes the sports betting provider to the green and white partner family. “This partnership is a strong signal and demonstrates the trust placed in our club. Together, we are planning innovative activations and are convinced that the collaboration will be very successful. I am delighted that Interwetten is now part of the large green and white partner family.”

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