The way National Lottery scratchcards are sold in UK supermarkets is undergoing its biggest change in 30 years, as a new high-tech vending machine is being trialled at an Asda store in Ashton-under-Lyne.
The cutting-edge digital dispenser, developed by Scientific Games in partnership with National Lottery operator Allwyn, marks the first time this advanced retail technology has been introduced in Europe.
The system, known as the SCiQ retail ecosystem, has already been successfully implemented in the United States, and thanks to research from Red Casino, we look at its potential impact on this side of the Atlantic.
How the new scratchcard dispenser works
Unlike traditional scratchcard sales, which involve manually selecting tickets from behind the counter, this automated system features a 27-inch digital display showcasing up to 20 different scratchcard games.
Customers choose their preferred games from the screen, and Asda staff use a touchscreen terminal to process the selection.
The secure dispenser then automatically releases the chosen scratchcards, ensuring a quicker and more efficient transaction.
The system also incorporates real-time sales analytics and automated inventory tracking, providing retailers with data-driven insights.
Additionally, in line with Allwyn’s responsible gambling measures, the software enforces a 10-scratchcard transaction limit, preventing staff from dispensing more than the set amount in a single purchase.
A sign of things to come?
The move comes as supermarkets and retailers increasingly integrate digital automation to streamline customer service and reduce queue times.
Asda’s senior director of productivity, Kevin Besford, noted that the trial aims to create a faster and more convenient shopping experience for customers who purchase National Lottery products.
Allwyn’s operations director, Jenny Blogg, expressed excitement about the trial’s potential impact.
She said: “We’re deploying innovative lottery technology fit for the future.
“This concept scratchcard dispenser takes player and retailer experience to a whole new level, and we’re confident it will change the way people buy scratchcards.”
What happens next?
The trial at Asda’s Ashton store will run for several months as Allwyn assesses the effectiveness of the system before making any wider rollout decisions.
If successful, this could signal a nationwide transformation in the way National Lottery scratchcards are sold across UK supermarkets and retailers.
This UK-first initiative not only modernises Scratchcard sales but also aligns with the evolving retail landscape, where automation and digital solutions are becoming integral to customer service.
Picture credit: Free to use from Unsplash
Join the discussion