Better Change’s Rob Mabbett: collaboration is essential for the future of safer gambling

Ahead of Eag Expo 2026, Better Change highlights industry partnerships as the key to sustainable growth and player protection.
Written by Redazione

Rob Mabbett

Better Change is calling for deeper collaboration between operators, regulators and safer gambling organisations, with Director of Engagement Rob Mabbett describing its ongoing relationship with Eag Expo as a “template for collaboration” within the safer gambling ecosystem.

Speaking ahead of Better Change’s appearance in the Bacta Business Lounge at January’s Eag Expo, Mabbett underlined the strategic importance of the event for the Uk’s land-based gambling sector. According to him, Eag plays a crucial role in shaping the industry’s future, particularly at a time when regulation and player protection are more closely linked than ever.

WHY COLLABORATION IS NO LONGER OPTIONAL – Mabbett stressed that, in the current regulatory and political climate, cooperation is no longer optional. He pointed to growing pressure from statutory levy commissioning bodies for charities to distance themselves from the gambling industry, arguing that such separation risks undermining effective harm prevention strategies. In his view, meaningful progress can only be achieved when all stakeholders remain actively involved.

Highlighting the sector’s long-standing commitment to safer gambling, Mabbett noted that the Uk land-based industry has been embedding responsible practices into its business culture for more than three decades. He referenced Bacta — owner of Eag Expo — as the first trade association to work with Paul Bellringer Obe, who later founded GamCare. More recently, Bacta and its members have responded positively to challenges set by government and the Gambling Commission, earning public recognition from Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross and Gambling Commission Ceo Andrew Rhodes.

BETTER CHANGE’S POSITIVE PLAH APPROACH – Looking ahead to Eag Expo, Mabbett explained what sets Better Change apart from other organisations operating in the safer gambling space. Rather than seeking to restrict or stigmatise gambling, Better Change focuses on enabling it through the promotion of Positive Play. Drawing on years of hands-on industry experience, the company aims to help operators navigate regulatory requirements while continuing to deliver strong customer experiences and sustainable business growth.

For Better Change, continued participation at Eag reflects a firm belief that collaboration remains the most effective way to raise awareness, protect players and keep land-based gambling engaging, enjoyable and safe. Despite the challenges faced by the sector over the years, Mabbett expressed confidence in its resilience, predicting that future-focused discussions around entertainment, innovation and evolving customer expectations will dominate conversations across Eag, Sie Expo and the London Casino and Gaming Show.