Entain to Shutter 39 Ladbrokes Branches in Ireland Following Failed Negotiations for Retail Estate Sale

Entain confirms 39 Ladbrokes shop closures in Ireland after failing to sell the estate. Over 200 jobs are at risk as the firm battles rising operational costs.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 2, 2026, 8:35 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from iGB

The Downsizing of a Retail Mainstay

Entain is preparing to close 39 of its approximately 100 Ladbrokes shops across Ireland, a move that follows a strategic withdrawal from discussions regarding a total market exit. This significant contraction of the brand's physical presence is expected to result in the loss of 226 jobs, pending the outcome of formal employee consultations. According to company representatives, the closures are slated for completion by the end of May 2026, leaving a remaining footprint of 66 shops and roughly 350 staff members in the Republic.

The Collapse of the Bar One Deal

The decision to shutter branches comes after protracted negotiations with Bar One Racing for the sale of the entire Irish retail estate failed to reach an agreement. Reports suggest that these discussions, which began last year, concluded without a transaction on March 31. Consequently, Entain has shifted its strategy from a total divestment to a drastic reduction in its operational overhead to ensure the long term financial sustainability of its remaining Irish business units.

Responding to Global Economic Pressures

A spokesperson for Ladbrokes identified several key factors driving the closures, including sustained cost pressures and a notable change in how customers engage with betting services. The rise of digital platforms has fundamentally altered the retail landscape, making many physical locations less viable. Furthermore, the company cited the growing threat from the unlicensed market and recent tax hikes, such as the increase in remote gaming duty from 21% to 40%, as critical elements making the current retail model difficult to maintain.