As the largest independent bookmaker in Scotland, Scotbet commands a substantial presence with its operation of 30 betting shops. Their story began in the 1960s when they were known as Morrison's Bookmakers before rebranding and introducing a branded online platform. The economic slump post-2009 brought financial hardship, leading to a management buyout in 2011.
Scotbet stands tall as a prominent name in Scotland's independent bookmaking sector. Its origins trace back to 1961 when its pioneer shop opened in Niddrie, near Edinburgh, and expanded under Kenny Waugh's leadership, mainly within Edinburgh and nearby areas. Initially operating as Morrisons Bookmakers Ltd, they bought Sean Graham’s Scottish betting shops in 2008 for £2 million.
Sadly, the tides turned when the financial slump hit the owning corporation, the Festival Group, deepening challenges. John Heaton, then Chief Executive, led a management buyout in July 2011, encompassing the then 65 shops and online operations.
By July 2019, due to rising expenses and regulatory changes affecting Fixed Odds Betting Terminals (FOBTs), Scotbet slid into receivership, leaving 30 shops which were eventually rescued by SCOTB123 Ltd. John Heaton highlighted these burdens as factors for the failure.
After the 2019 transition, Scotbet pulled their white-label website previously managed with Corbetts Bookmakers. For online gaming, Scotbet shop patrons could look to esteemed platforms like Bet365 or Betfred for their needs.
70 Market Street, Haddington, East Lothian, EH41 3JG
14-15 Shore Street , Anstruther , KY10 3EA
1 Park Road, Ardrossan, North Ayrshire, KA22 8JR
As a frequent visitor to the Scotbet shops in Edinburgh over the years, I've found the staff to be incredibly approachable and the odds fair, having never encountered any issues.
50B Moredunvale Road , Edinburgh , EH17 7RZ
118-120 High Street , North Berwick , EH39 4HA
https://www.fansbet-online.com/independent-bookmakers/scotbet/Overall rating:4 out of
5 based on
1reviews.
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