European lotteries deliver a record €29.4 billion to society
Brussels, 25 March 2026 – The European Lotteries (EL) today publishes the 19th edition of its Report on the Lottery Sector in Europe, revealing a record €29.4 billion contributed to society in 2024 - the highest level ever achieved by the sector.
At a time of economic uncertainty and growing pressure on public budgets, European lotteries operate with a clear mission: to generate funding for society while upholding the highest sector standards of consumer protection and responsible gaming. Together, these principles form the foundation of the positive societal impact created by European lotteries.
Based on consolidated data from 67 EL Lottery Members across 37 countries, the report shows that European lotteries generated €109.9 billion in sales and €46.1 billion in gross gaming revenue (GGR) in 2024. Yet, the true impact of the lottery sector extends beyond financial performance. In 2024 more than 62 percent of all GGR was returned to society - supporting state budgets and social programmes, as well as sports, culture, health and education. On average, this translates to a per capita contribution of approximately €47, making the lottery not just a game of chance, but a powerful contributor for public good in Europe.
The report also highlights key trends in the sector. Instant Games remained a key driver of growth, while Sports Games recorded the strongest increase. Retail continues to play a central role across Europe, supported by nearly 300,000 points of sale. Yet, the most striking development comes from the digital pillar: with online GGR rising by 19 percent to €6.2 billion, reflecting evolving consumer behaviour.
Beyond financial contributions, European lotteries sustain more than 55,000 full-time jobs and maintain high standards in responsible gaming, integrity, and sustainability. At a time when illegal and irresponsible gambling continues to threaten consumers and public revenues, the report underlines the essential role of regulated lotteries in delivering safe play, protecting players, and safeguarding long-term public value - key priorities of EL’s strategy for the years ahead.
”The sector’s societal contribution demonstrates the strength and responsibility of European lotteries. Even in a complex gambling landscape, national lotteries remain committed to serving the public interest. To continue fulfilling this role and supporting the European social fabric, the unique contribution of national lotteries to society must be recognised in public policy discussions.”
EL Report on the Lottery Sector in Europe 2024 (public version)
EL Press Release 25 March 2026
The EL Data & Research Working Group (D&R WG) is responsible for collecting and sharing data among the EL membership. The data is collected online and aggregated by an independent third party.
Contact: Lucy Lenaers-Mathieson, EL Communications Officer, E-mail: lucy.mathieson@european-lotteries.eu
