Jackpot: How Gambling Conquered Britain

Jackpot: The Hidden Truth About Gambling is a powerful exposé of the gambling industry in the UK, revealing its insidious business practices and the enormous profits generated for companies operating in the industry. The book explores the history of gambling in the UK, from the first National Lottery draw in 1569 to the Wild West of today's online casinos, and follows the money to show who profits and at what cost.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 02 February 2023
Publisher: Guardian Faber Publishing

A powerful exposé has been published, shedding light on the unethical business practices that have led to substantial profits for companies operating within the UK's gambling industry. This comprehensive and insightful polemic delves into the intricacies of the gambling industry, offering a nuanced and sometimes harrowing perspective. The book bears similarities to Patrick Radden Keefe's award-winning work, "Empire of Pain," in its exploration of the dark underbelly of this sector. The Sunday Times has hailed it as a serious attempt to grapple with the magnitude of Britain's gambling problem. The Spectator has praised it as a persuasive and thought-provoking analysis. The Financial Times has described it as fascinating, while the Irish Times has deemed it eye-opening. The Telegraph has awarded it a remarkable rating of 7/10, highlighting the staggering number of gambling logos displayed during a single Premier League football match (716) and the substantial salary of Bet365's CEO in 2020 (£421 million). Furthermore, the annual losses incurred by British gamblers amount to £14 billion, underscoring the significant financial toll this activity takes on individuals and society as a whole. It is worth noting that over half of the population in the UK engages in gambling activities each year. Jackpot takes a deep dive into the seedy underbelly of gambling to explore these critical questions and many more. Author and Guardian reporter Rob Davies follows the money trail, tracing its origins from the first National Lottery draw in 1569 to the modern-day Wild West of online casinos. Through his meticulous research, Davies uncovers the individuals and organizations that profit from this industry, while also shedding light on the human costs and societal repercussions associated with gambling addiction. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of the gambling industry and the urgent need for reform.

Weight: 308g
Dimension: 197 x 129 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781783352258
Edition number: Main