Finland to Limit Slot Machine Hours in Shops

Veikkaus, Finland’s state-owned gambling monopoly, is introducing new restrictions on slots operating hours.

As of September 1, gamblers in Finland will not be able to play on slot machines located in shops between 9pm and 9am. It means that shops will be required to switch the machines off at 9pm; however, the time restrictions do not apply to slot machines in other locations.

Veikkaus is also introducing steps to limit how visible the slot machines are. From next month, potential players will not be able to see the games or play them until they have first identified themselves. This rule will apply to slot machines in shops, petrol stations, kiosks and restaurants.

This means that the monopoly will be better able to track player behavior and monitor at risk gamblers.

Veikkaus wants to offer the opportunity to go to the store without being able to play on the slot machines. Veikkaus also offers customers the opportunity to completely prevent their own playing on slot machines. The locks can be switched on, for example, via Veikkaus’ web service or our customer service. Identified gambling is the key to gaining control over one's own gambling. Veikkaus is becoming a gambling company where all gambling requires identification in both digital and physical channels.

Susanna SaikkonenVeikkaus, Vice President of Sustainability

Veikkaus has introduced a number of restrictions in recent years. The company hopes to reduce levels of problem gambling in Finland by making it easier to prevent play and by restricting access to gaming machines. By forcing players to identify themselves, Veikkaus is able to stop those deemed to be at risk from beginning to play.

This has led to a dramatic reduction in the number of slot machines in Finland. In November 2021, there were less than 10,000 machines in the country, while in 2019 there were more than 18,500.