High EuroMillions jackpots have encouraged consumers to buy more lottery tickets, with Allwyn International reporting a 2% rise in third-quarter UK revenues to €974m (£852.3m) on a constant currency basis.
The National Lottery operator said the UK’s steady growth was also driven by its digital channel, such as interactive instant win games, and targeted promotional and marketing activity.
However, total revenue in the quarter to 30 September was down by 1% after accounting for currency headwinds.
Adjusted EBITDA was €9m (£7.8m), an increase of €3m (£2.6m).
“We remained focused on the ongoing execution of our plans to transform the UK National Lottery, including upgrading legacy technology infrastructure that has long constrained new product development and innovation, to support future commercial initiatives and the further enhancement of the customer proposition,” the accounts said.
“During the quarter, we were delighted to successfully transition to a new central lottery system as one of over 30 system upgrades carried out, as well as activating new state of-the-art retail terminals to over 70% of our retail partners. The rollout of new retail terminals has continued after the end of the quarter.”
The results come as Allwyn prepares its retail partners for the Christmas period with festive draws and a new scratchcard campaign.
This year’s festive draw lineup includes a £15m Lotto ‘Must Be Won’ draw on Christmas Eve, which will be supported by a nationwide advertising campaign across TV, press, online, and digital billboards from 18 December. The EuroMillions 10 UK Millionaires draw will follow on 2 January, with in-store PoS available from 25 December.
Allwyn said these were an opportunity to boost sales for retailers.
The National Lottery operator has also invested £7m into a media campaign across November and December, featuring new ‘Scratchcard-igans’ with Olympian Tom Daley.
It has confirmed the return of the ‘Big Thank You’ giveaway, following its summer debut. Running from 1 to 14 December, the ‘Big Thank You’ will reward 40 independent retailers with the choice of seven prize options, including a Eurostar city break, Michelin Star culinary experience, and cricket hospitality.
“Retailers are central to our festive plans, with exclusive scratchcards and three major event draws creating a huge opportunity to boost sales and spread some cheer,” said Alison Acquaye-Acford, Allwyn director of commercial partnerships and retail sales.
“We’re urging them to make the most of PoS, talk to customers about the draws, and join the fun of our Scratchcard-igans campaign. And with the return of our ‘Big Thank You’ prize giveaway from 1 December, there’s even more reason to get involved and win incredible rewards. It’s the perfect way to end 2025 and kick off 2026 – for retailers, players, and the good causes they help support.”
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