Around 150 Gambling Operators’ Retail Outlets Affected by Unrest in France

^{Ransacked PMU retail outlets}

Around 100 retail outlets in the network of FDJ United, which operates France’s national lottery and the Parions Sport betting brand, were affected by widespread unrest across the country on 17–18 October. Horse racing betting operator PMU also reported damage to 50 of its partner outlets.

FDJ United and PMU operate through networks of partner businesses, including tobacconists, bars, newsagents and other retail establishments. Neither company specified which types of premises had been affected by the unrest.

FDJ United’s Chief Financial Officer, Dan Levy, discussed the impact of the unrest during the company’s financial results presentation on 21 October.

He said the situation had been difficult for the affected retail partners but had not had a material impact on the company’s overall business.

PMU confirmed that 50 of its partner outlets had been damaged or vandalised. The company said it was providing support to the affected businesses.

Neither operator disclosed which cities its affected outlets were located in. It is also unclear whether any of the same establishments were included in both companies’ figures.

The unrest took place amid widespread protests in France, which initially centred on dissatisfaction with conditions in French schools before expanding to encompass broader social and economic grievances. In Paris, Lyon, Marseille and other cities, some demonstrations were accompanied by looting, arson and clashes with police.