Lottery ticket sales in Russia surged by 30%
Rising Lottery Ticket Demand in Russia
Lottery ticket demand in Russia has seen a steady increase over the past years, according to a publication. In 2022, the average price per ticket was 112 rubles, climbing to 155 rubles in 2023, and peaking at 210 rubles in 2024. On average, players purchase two to three lottery tickets at a time, notes RBC.
Active promotion strategies are cited as a significant factor driving the increase in demand. The internet and television channels play a crucial role in this regard. For instance, the "Dreamillion" draw by "National Lottery" airs within the namesake morning show on "Channel One", and NTV serves as the official partner of "Stoloto". The growth in demand is also linked to the increase in real disposable incomes of the population, argues Eugene Safronov, head of the InterMedia agency.
Experts from "Check Index" indicate that lottery ticket sales surge before holidays, as they make popular gift items. They claim that lottery tickets often appear in the top ten most popular purchases an hour before New Year's Eve.
As of now, about 70% of lottery ticket sales are facilitated through the websites of the lotteries themselves and specialized apps. This shifting trend online has resulted in a 200-point decrease in offline lottery organizer sales outlets in 2024. According to data from "Yandex Maps" cited by RBC, there were 4,100 branded lottery ticket sales points in Russia in December 2024. While tickets can still be purchased at post offices, gas stations, grocery stores, and other places, the press service of "Stoloto" confirmed.
In October 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law mandating a phased increase in contributions from lottery proceeds. These funds are allocated for socially significant objectives and events, including physical culture and sports development. Starting this year, contributions are based on the quarterly lottery turnover. The rate is set at 4.2% for 2025, set to rise to 4.5% in 2026, 5% in 2027, and 5.5% from 2028. The financial and economic justification of the law estimates additional revenues to the federal budget from targeted lottery contributions at 3.834 billion rubles in 2025, 4.108 billion rubles in 2026, 4.564 billion rubles in 2027, and 5.021 billion rubles in 2028.
Factors influencing lottery demand include economic conditions, government regulations, technological advancements, competition from other forms of betting, and cultural and social trends, among others. In Russia, these factors, along with country-specific conditions, shape the demand for lottery tickets substantially. More specific data or trends about Russia could be found in local market reports or government statistics.
Casino-and-gambling trends in Russia are evolving, with technology playing a significant role in the growth of lotteries. Online sales of lottery tickets are increasing, contributing to a 200-point decrease in offline lottery sales outlets in 2024. This shifting trend online transforms the purchasing process, making lottery tickets accessible via specialized apps and the websites of lotteries themselves.
