Mobile growth has William Hill jumping

By GARETH MACKIE
Published on 28/07/2012 00:00

Rapid growth in online and mobile phone betting helped bookmaker William Hill enjoy a 13 per cent increase in profits for the first half.

Favourable results at the Grand National and Cheltenham Festival saw pre-tax profits grow to £143.3 million in the six months to June, on revenues 11 per cent higher at £627.8m.

Profits at its retail business rose 6 per cent to £109.8m, but the biggest growth came from the online business, with profits up 23 per cent to £68.9m. During the period, wagers through mobile devices accounted for 22 per cent of all sports betting online and 11 per cent of gaming revenues.

Chief executive Ralph Topping, who is also chairman of the Scottish Premier League, said bets during Euro 2012 were up 61 per cent compared with the previous championship in 2008.