Investigation Launched by Gambling Commission Regarding Merkur
Merkur Casino, the second-largest player in the UK gambling sector, is facing a critical juncture in its expansion plans. Despite opening 100 new venues since 2020, the company's growth has encountered local opposition, with a premises application in Sheffield being withdrawn due to resident objections.
The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has been investigating Merkur, a German-owned company operating Britain's second-largest network of adult gaming centres. However, as of August 2025, there are no public reports or details from the UKGC about an investigation specifically targeting Merkur pertaining to slot machines or the slot machine sector.
Recent news about Merkur in the UK relates mainly to its acquisition and reopening of The Casino MK in Milton Keynes, and planning permission issues for a proposed slots parlour in Edinburgh. The Gambling Commission continues to maintain its policy of not confirming or denying investigations into individual operators.
Merkur's UK operations currently consist of 228 sites. However, the company has faced allegations of allowing a vulnerable customer with lung cancer to lose over £2,000 in 16 hours. Staff at Merkur reportedly reserved the customer's favorite slot machine and facilitated her continued play despite her physical condition.
The Gambling Commission is empowered to levy financial penalties on license-breaking companies. Merkur, in its results statement, expressed concerns about potential business impacts from negative publicity. However, the company did not comment on the proposed relaxation of regulations on high street slots.
Meanwhile, Merkur's parent company, Merkur Group, is also expanding in the US market with new gaming licenses. Despite the challenges, Merkur Casino UK remains committed to revitalizing the local leisure market, as seen in its acquisition and reopening of The Casino MK in Milton Keynes.
References: 1. Merkur Casino to reopen Milton Keynes venue 2. Merkur's Edinburgh slots parlour plan rejected 3. Gala Bingo reports technical glitch to UKGC
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