Entain H1 2026 outlook highlights online growth despite UK tax headwinds

Entain on Tuesday outlined its first-half 2026 outlook, projecting an acceleration in online revenue growth despite facing increased tax pressure in the UK.

The gambling group, which operates brands including Ladbrokes and Coral, said online operations are driving performance amid a challenging regulatory and fiscal environment in its domestic market. The UK has imposed higher gambling duties in recent years, pressuring margins for operators.

The company’s presentation materials, reviewed by Reuters, emphasize online growth as a key pillar of its strategy to offset regulatory and tax headwinds. While specific financial targets were not disclosed, the focus on digital channels reflects broader industry trends favoring online betting over traditional retail.

Entain’s UK exposure remains significant, with the country contributing a substantial share of group revenue. The higher tax burden, including a 2023 increase in the remote gambling duty to 21% from 15%, has weighed on profitability for operators. Analysts have noted that such fiscal pressures could constrain investment in marketing and product development.

The group’s emphasis on online growth aligns with a shift across the sector, where digital platforms offer higher margins and broader customer reach compared to land-based operations. Entain’s brands have invested in mobile and online experiences to capture market share in a competitive landscape.

The outlook comes as the UK gambling regulator continues to scrutinize marketing practices and responsible gambling measures, adding further operational complexity for operators.