The landscape of lottery ticket sales in Turkey is shifting dramatically, particularly for street vendors in İzmir. As the annual New Year draw approaches, many vendors are experiencing a downturn in demand. The decline has been attributed to the growing popularity of online gambling and ongoing economic challenges. Vendors express concerns that this may be the worst period in the history of their business.
Decline in Demand for Lottery Tickets
The state lottery in Turkey traditionally holds a significant draw on December 31. This year, the top prize for the lottery reaches 800 million lira (approximately $19 million). However, vendors are finding it increasingly difficult to sell their tickets. Many now anticipate being left with unsold inventory.
Vendor Perspectives
- Street vendors at İzmir’s Konak Square report the lowest ticket sales they have ever seen.
- Previously, buyers often purchased multiple tickets; now, many pass by without buying or only opt for cheaper options.
With a quarter ticket priced at 200 lira, a half ticket at 400 lira, and a full ticket at 800 lira, retirees and older adults are now the primary buyers. Unfortunately, rising living costs have tightened their budgets, leading many to only afford a single quarter ticket.
Impact of Online Gambling
The head of the İzmir Lottery and Games Vendors Association, Paşa Çakmak, emphasizes the impact of online platforms. He claims that after the privatization of the state lottery, the rise of digital games caused a significant shift in consumer behavior. “Turkey turned into a casino,” he stated, highlighting how easily people can access online gambling options.
- Konak Square once had around 30 licensed ticket sellers; now, fewer than 10 remain.
- Many vendors are considering leaving the business if sales do not improve.
According to Çakmak, online gambling platforms lure customers with constant accessibility and promotional bonuses. Consequently, families are reportedly using their retirement income to pay off gambling debts, diminishing their interest in traditional lottery tickets.
Competition from Retail Outlets
Street vendors face stiff competition from supermarkets, kiosks, and online retailers. This expanding market further reduces the street presence of lottery vendors. Many customers now purchase tickets in small groups to manage costs better because a single ticket is too expensive.
Outlook for Vendors
One longtime seller shared that, in her three decades of experience, she has never witnessed such a drastic decline in demand. Vendors are now bracing for the possibility that many of their tickets will remain unsold, even with such a large jackpot on offer. As December 31 approaches, there is little optimism for a last-minute surge in ticket sales, leaving many vendors anxious about the future of their business.
