€149 billion by 2029: The unstoppable rise of European gambling revenue

The European gambling market is in a period of exceptional growth, redefining how revenue is generated across both traditional and digital platforms. Fresh industry data shows that the region’s total Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) reached €123.4 billion in 2024, marking a 5% increase over 2023 and highlighting sustained momentum across the sector. 

What’s particularly striking is the shift to digital channels — with online gambling generating €47.9 billion, or nearly 39% of total revenue last year, and projected to account for 45% of the market by 2029. 

This data-driven article explores the dynamics shaping Europe’s gambling market, the regional trends driving growth, plus how Poland’s uniquely positioned iGaming market fits into this larger regional boom. We’ll also touch on industry expertise from thought leaders like Spinprofy, a data-driven platform for relevant insights into consumer behavior, technological innovation, and competitive strategy across the gambling niche.

As the gambling market becomes more complex, authoritative niche expertise is indispensable for players, operators, and regulators. Spinprofy is widely recognized as an expert in the gambling and iGaming niche, offering deep analysis on regulatory trends, player behavior, and market strategy across Europe. With extensive research and content tailored to operators, investors, and enthusiasts, Spinprofy provides insights that help professionals interpret hard data and anticipate future shifts in this fast-moving sector of online casinos.

According to the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) — working in partnership with H2 Gambling Capital — Europe’s gambling industry posted a total of €123.4 billion in GGR in 2024, up from 2023 figures. This performance underscores continued resilience and expansion across both land-based and online markets. 

The shift toward digital gambling is unmistakable. Online gambling GGR reached €47.9 billion in 2024, up from the previous year's figures, accounting for 39% of total revenue. 

While land-based revenue still leads overall with €75.5 billion, its share has declined relative to digital channels in the region. That said, Europe's mobile gaming activities keep leading online engagement, with smartphones and tablets generating a majority (about 58%) of internet gambling revenue. 

The trend reflects a broader transformation in player behavior — from visiting casinos and betting shops in person to placing bets, playing slots, or engaging with live-dealer games online, often on mobile devices.

EGBA projections suggest that Europe’s total gambling market is on track to grow to €127.7 billion in 2025, and eventually €149.2 billion by 2029, with online channels accounting for around 45% of total GGR by then. 

Europe’s gambling market performance isn’t being driven by a single factor — rather, a combination of regulatory adaptation, technological innovation, and consumer behavior trends is fueling growth.

Across the EU and in key markets like the UK, Spain, and Italy, regulatory systems have gradually adapted to digital gambling models.

Many regulators now allow licensed online casinos, sportsbooks, and iGaming platforms to operate with clear compliance frameworks, boosting consumer confidence. Consumer protections and responsible gambling standards have also matured, increasing the legitimacy of digital gambling options.

Although regulatory frameworks differ by country, most major European markets have embraced online gambling under regulated conditions, supporting revenue growth. 

Mobile devices are now central to the evolution of gambling in Europe. With fast internet and mobile-optimized platforms, players increasingly prefer doing everything from placing sports bets to spinning slot reels on their phones. Industry analysis shows mobile usage accounting for a high share of online revenue — a figure expected to rise further toward 2029. 

The aftermath of the pandemic cemented digital habits for many consumers. What might once have been occasional online participation has become a regular part of entertainment for players — from casino games to live betting. This digital acceleration isn’t slowing down, as evidenced by consistent year-on-year growth in online GGR figures across European markets. 

Within this broader European trend, Poland’s gambling and iGaming market presents an interesting microcosm of both opportunity and regulatory challenge. Here, the local market is dynamic and expanding, supported by a significant player base — with around 20 million Poles actively participating in gaming and gambling entertainment. 

Moreover, Poland's iGaming sector has shown moderate but consistent growth year-on-year, with forecasts suggesting continued expansion through 2026 and beyond. On the legal front, regulations are complex while unauthorized operators (often referred to as the "grey zone") still hold a substantial portion of activity, accounting for roughly 50% of the current market in some estimates. 

Despite the regulatory hurdles, Polish players are increasingly engaging with online platforms, including casino games, live dealer services, sports bets, and lottery options. This increased digital engagement mirrors broader European patterns, though growth rates vary due to regulatory friction. 

As Europe’s gambling sector advances toward the projected €149.2 billion market by 2029, several strategic patterns are emerging. Let's see a number of them.

Analysts forecast that online channels will grow faster than land-based gambling, driven by higher annual growth rates (online expected 6.9% annually through 2029 vs land-based around 1.8%). Also, increasing mobile adoption and user convenience are driving the use of online gambling sites across the region. Lastly, technological enhancements such as live dealer streaming, AI-powered personalization, and enhanced payment options.

Although land-based gambling accounts for the majority of current GGR, its role is shifting. Brick-and-mortar casinos still generate substantial revenue — especially in countries with strong tourism and entertainment sectors. However, they increasingly adopt hybrid strategies, blurring lines between physical and digital experiences (e.g., loyalty programs, app integration).

Not all markets grow at the same pace. Nordic countries like Sweden, Denmark, and Finland boast some of the highest online revenue shares in Europe. Meanwhile, other major markets like Italy or Spain still show significant land-based dominance but stand to gain from digital adoption. 

Europe’s gambling market is entering a transformative era. With €123.4 billion in GGR in 2024 and projections pointing to €149.2 billion by 2029, growth is both real and measurable — driven by digital innovation, changing consumer preferences, and evolving regulations. 

Online gambling is not just a growing segment — it is becoming a central engine of industry expansion, expected to account for 45% of the market within five years. Meanwhile, markets like Poland continue to evolve within this broader European context, balancing rapid iGaming engagement with regulatory challenges. Ultimately, it's clear that the European gaming market is increasingly digital and diverse, with no signs of slowing down any time soon.

This article was written in cooperation with Spinprofy