Key Moments:
- Allwyn has installed over 22,000 Wave terminals in UK retail locations as part of its planned rollout.
- The new technology replaces machines dating back to 2009, providing immediate benefits for retailers and players.
- Allwyn has invested over £400m modernizing The National Lottery’s operations to enhance the retail and player experience.
Wave Terminal Deployment Progresses
Allwyn, the operator of The National Lottery, has implemented more than 22,000 Wave terminals throughout retail stores across the UK. This achievement marks the midpoint in the company’s large-scale introduction of the new terminals aimed at revolutionizing the retail lottery experience.
We're delighted that we've reached the halfway milestone point in our UK-wide rollout of state-of-the-art Wave lottery terminals.
More than 22,000 new machines have been successfully installed across UK retail locations, modernising The National Lottery in-store experience. pic.twitter.com/g4q3b8BKoH
— allwynuk (@allwynuk) October 24, 2025
Cutting-Edge Technology Upgrades for Retailers
The innovative Wave terminals offer significant advancements compared to the older devices, which had been in operation since 2009. Retailers now benefit from faster transaction speeds due to a high-speed processor, a larger LCD screen with tilt functionality, wireless 1D and 2D barcode scanners, and a versatile play slip reader capable of handling slips in both horizontal and vertical orientations. Enhanced features also include improved reporting capabilities and the option to update National Lottery Fast Pay cards.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| High-speed processor | Enables quicker transactions |
| Larger, tilt-adjustable screen | Improves usability and visibility |
| Wireless barcode scanners | Scans both 1D and 2D codes |
| Flexible play slip reader | Accepts slips horizontally or vertically |
| Enhanced functionality | Includes advanced reporting and Fast Pay card updates |
Positive Reception and Continued Transformation
The rollout has been met with enthusiasm from store owners and employees, who are experiencing tangible improvements in their business operations and customer service. Jenny Blogg, Allwyn’s director of operations, said: “Our wide-ranging transformation of The National Lottery continues at pace, with thousands of Wave terminals being installed every week.
“We’ve now invested more than £400m upgrading The National Lottery’s outdated operations and technology.
“Not only is this generating a hugely positive response from our retail partners, but it stands us in good stead to deliver on the exciting plans we have for new games, a better player experience, and a commitment to double returns to Good Causes from £30m to £60m every week by the end of our 10-year licence.”
Broader Strategy for Retail and Community Impact
Allwyn’s initiative to deploy Wave terminals is part of a larger plan to overhaul The National Lottery’s infrastructure. The company aims to provide greater value for both retail partners and the millions of players throughout the UK, as well as to support hundreds of Good Cause projects in every postcode area.
- Author
Daniel Williams
