Entain Australia & New Zealand has confirmed its decision to exit the TAB Racing Club program in New Zealand, signaling a strategic shift to refocus on its core business of betting and its primary racing partnerships.
The company has assured that it will honor all existing Racing Club experiences for its members through the conclusion of the upcoming New Zealand Cup Week in November.
Launched in 2024, the TAB Racing Club was an experience-based initiative designed to give its members exclusive access to racing events and a taste of horse ownership.
However, despite attracting a membership of approximately 18,000 in its first year, the program required an annual operating budget of NZ$2.5 million. Entain has now deemed these costs unsustainable when measured against its long-term strategic priorities.
A formal and responsible process to sell the Club’s horses has already commenced. This includes obtaining independent appraisals for each horse, with a primary focus on ensuring animal welfare is prioritized throughout the transition to new owners.
Entain has emphasized its unwavering commitment to the broader New Zealand racing industry, which remains secured through its 25-year strategic partnership with TAB New Zealand.
This long-term agreement continues to be a vital source of funding for the industry.
The company stated that its resources will now be more effectively directed toward its primary wagering business, focusing on product innovation and enhancing the customer experience.
This move is part of a disciplined approach to streamline operations and ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of its core activities in the New Zealand market.
Andrew Vouris, Chief Executive at Entain Australia & New Zealand:
“This is about discipline, focus, and doing what is right for the long term – winning, but not at all costs. We will continue responsibly selling bets, innovating our products, and ensuring the Racing Club’s horses are well cared for with their new owners.”
