Entain’s digital transformation of UK retail is on track as it celebrates launch of 100th Digi-Hub

Entain’s Digi-Hubs reinvent the traditional betting shop, with the contemporary, digital-first spaces dubbed the shops of the future. Digi-Hubs have a transformed look-and-feel, and are fitted with more digital touch points, best-in-class sports betting and gaming terminals, and interactive displays, providing more dynamic content and experiences for customers.

Since 2019, when the first trial Digi-Hub opened, the roll-out of these digital-first shops has been integral in welcoming customers back to the high street. Entain has already seen over 1 million gaming sessions and over 10 million sports bets take place in Digi-Hubs. With this milestone, Entain moves closer to its ambition to open 200 Digi-Hubs by the end of 2024.

Will Thorp, Strategy Director - UK Retail at Entain, said: “We’re thrilled to announce the opening of our 100th Digi-Hub. We’re passionate about creating connected, digital experiences in our shops to continue distinguishing ourselves as the market leader. Entain sits at the very heart of a fast-paced, ever-evolving world of entertainment, and to continue providing positive player experiences, it’s crucial that we continue to innovate and excite our customers. Digi-Hubs help us do just that and have been a huge hit.”

The modernised, relaxed atmosphere of the Digi-Hubs has been influential in attracting a new generation of customers to the high street. The Group highlights that more online-first customers, who are typically more diverse than traditional betting customers, are coming into betting shops for the first time.

The milestone moment for Digi-Hubs comes as UK retail continues its resurgence after the lockdowns of the pandemic. In 2022, Entain reported UK retail NGR up 56%, which is supported by an improved customer offer through more digital touch points in shops and best-in-class sports betting and gaming terminals.