Strongest-performance ever on age checks for Lottery
NATIONAL Lottery retailers have achieved their strongest-ever performance on age-verification checks since mystery shopper visits began 20 years ago.
According to new figures from National Lottery operator Allwyn, retailers across the UK correctly asked for ID in 93.5% of first visits, setting a new record for player protection. Retailers also demonstrated record levels of understanding around minimising excessive play.
The new figures were taken from Allwyn’s Operation Guardian programme, introduced by the operator in 2024, which was designed to help retailers to sell National Lottery products more safely in stores.
In 2025, the programme expanded further, with 16,298 store visits across three categories made up of the following:
• 4,298 Underage Play Mystery Shop visits
• 4,000 Excessive Play Mystery Shop visits
• 8,000 Responsible Play Knowledge Check visits
The Underage Play Mystery Shop visits tested whether retailers challenged anyone who appeared under 18. The 93.5% compliance rate on this figure represents a 1.2% improvement on figures from 2024, says Allwyn.
The Excessive Play Mystery Shops also ensured that retailers were adhering to the limit of no more than 10 Scratchcards per transaction with consumers. Introduced in October 2024, this policy aimed to take a major step forward in encouraging responsible play from consumers.
James Dunbar, Allwyn’s retail strategy & operations director, said: “We’re incredibly proud of our 43,500 National Lottery retailers for setting a new standard in responsible retailing. Their commitment has delivered the strongest results we’ve ever seen, and that’s a huge achievement.
“In 2025, we’ve taken major steps forward with the expansion of Operation Guardian and strengthened measures like awareness of the 10-Scratchcard limit.
“These efforts have driven record compliance rates and improved knowledge scores across the board. This progress shows how seriously our retail partners take player protection, and I want to thank them for their outstanding dedication and professionalism.”
