Paddy Power Founder Warns Fast-Paced Online Slots Fuel Addiction Concerns

Paddy Power Founder Warns Fast-Paced Online Slots Fuel Addiction Concerns

Stewart Kenny, one of the founding figures behind Paddy Power, has raised alarms about the speed of slots, arguing that their rapid gameplay mechanics may contribute to gambling addiction. He believes that current regulations, such as stake limits, fail to tackle the fundamental issue—how quickly players can place bets and receive outcomes.

In a recent BBC Radio 4 documentary, Kenny explained that the short delay between spins encourages players to “repeat the dose” rapidly, increasing the risk of addiction. He also highlighted how features like flashing lights, sound effects, and near-misses play a psychological role in keeping gamblers engaged.

Regulations Are in Place—But Are They Enough?

The UK government has already introduced measures to curb gambling-related harm. From next month, online slot stakes will be capped at £5 for players over 25 and £2 for those aged 18 to 24. In 2021, the UK Gambling Commission also mandated a minimum spin speed of 2.5 seconds and banned features like autoplay and quick spin to slow down gameplay.

Despite these efforts, Kenny argues that regulators must take further action to address game speed directly. He insists that while operators follow the rules set for them, it is ultimately up to lawmakers to ensure gambling protections are effective.

Industry Response: Are Operators Doing Enough?

Flutter Entertainment, the parent company of Paddy Power, responded to Kenny’s comments by acknowledging the evolution of their responsible gambling initiatives. The company highlighted its ongoing commitment to player protection, noting that its policies have significantly advanced since Kenny left over eight years ago.

Meanwhile, the Betting and Gaming Council pointed out that most gamblers in the UK engage responsibly and welcomed ongoing reforms, such as stake limits and a mandatory levy to fund research into problem gambling.

With these debates gaining momentum, the challenge remains to strike a balance between player freedom and safeguarding public health. As scrutiny increases, UK online casinos may face additional regulatory changes in the near future.