European lotteries record €29.4 billion for society in 2024
European lotteries contributed a record €29.4 billion to society in 2024, highlighting their central role in Europe’s public finances.
Amid economic uncertainty, national lotteries are essential to public budgets and social programmes, underlying their societal value.
Key figures: growth and economic impact
The report analyses data from 67 operators across 37 European countries, offering a comprehensive overview of the sector. In 2024, total sales reached €109.9 billion, while Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) stood at €46.1 billion.
The report notes that over 62% of Gross Gaming Revenue was returned to society, including healthcare, education, culture, sport, and direct contributions to national budgets. This redistribution equates to approximately €47 per capita across Europe.
European lotteries operate under strict regulatory frameworks and public concessions, with proceeds directly supporting public benefit, which sets them apart from other gambling segments.
Digital and retail: a shifting balance
The sector continues to evolve in response to changing consumer behaviour. Instant games remain a primary source of growth, while the sports betting segment has seen the strongest growth.
At the same time, the retail channel retains a central role. Nearly 300,000 points of sale remain active across Europe, ensuring broad accessibility and a strong local presence.
Digital channels grew significantly in 2024, as online Gross Gaming Revenue hit €6.2 billion – up 19% – confirming a gradual shift towards digital, without replacing retail.
Employment and responsibility: the strength of a regulated model
The sector also supports employment, with more than 55,000 full-time employees reported across European lotteries in 2024.
National lotteries implement consumer protection measures in line with World Lottery Association guidelines and established regulatory frameworks for responsible gaming.
These measures are designed to ensure a controlled and transparent gaming environment for players.
The challenge of illegal gambling
The sector continues to face challenges, with illegal gambling identified as a significant ongoing concern.
Unregulated operators, often offshore, divert funds from public systems and pose risks to consumers; regulated lotteries are key for revenue and protection.
The report urges policymakers to implement stronger measures to target illegal gambling and to recognise and strengthen the role of national lotteries in European policy debates.
Message from European Lotteries
Reinforcing the sector’s importance, European Lotteries President Romana Girandon highlighted the fundamental role that lotteries play in Europe’s socio-economic fabric.
According to Girandon, even within an increasingly competitive and complex gaming landscape, national lotteries remain committed to serving the public interest. For this reason, their role should be fully recognised and valued in future policy frameworks.
Balancing growth and public interest
The 2024 report shows that European lotteries generate economic returns and social impact while aligning entertainment and public benefit.
Looking forward, the sector must continue to innovate, particularly in digital, while maintaining high standards of security and responsibility. As public resources remain under pressure, active support and recognition of lottery contributions are vital to maintaining their role as a strategic tool for Europe’s social and economic development.
This article was first published in Italian on 1 April 2026.
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