Premiere for lottery self-service machines in Hesse

Lotto is one of the oldest and most traditional games of chance today. It is loved by many fans for its simple game patterns, which have remained the same for decades. But even here, there are certain innovations from time to time. One of these is currently emerging in some Hessian supermarkets in the Netto chain, where players can hand in their tickets at the first self-service lottery terminals in Germany.

For hundreds of thousands of Germans, the weekly trip to the lottery office is an established ritual. Although more and more people are placing their bets online, many still like to try their luck on the spot. Grabbing a coffee from the local bakery, perhaps buying the daily newspaper, chatting to the staff, filling in the numbers at the small table next to the counter and then handing in the completed "work" in the hope of winning the big prize one day: this, or something similar, is the procedure for a large proportion of German lottery players.

However, Lotto Hessen has recently initiated a new development that will take many "users" away from this familiar interactive, personal, haptic experience. Even many of the lottery players who do not yet play online could be deterred: At the first three self-service lottery terminals in the Netto stores, customers can easily submit their tickets with just a few taps on a typical touch screen. According to the operator, the network of such machines is to be massively expanded.

How do the Lotto self-service terminals from Lotto Hessen work

Lotto Hessen has issued a press release on the launch of the new self-service terminals. It does not describe the functionality in detail, but clearly states that the procedure should be extremely simple: "Users can easily submit tickets for their favourite lotteries on the intuitive touch screens of the self-service terminals. Customers can complete the entire betting process on their own, from selecting the lottery, choosing the numbers and determining the duration, to cashless payment".

Basically, the sequence of use should be very similar to playing online. The following steps must be completed in each case:

1. First, the terminal welcomes customers with a selection of popular lotteries - from LOTTO 6aus49 to KENO.
2. The player can choose which jackpot to bet on - the current maximum prize is displayed.
3. Lottery options such as playing with your own numbers or the popular Quick Tip are then offered.
4. Remember, each player must verify their identity by scanning their ID card.
5. Payment for the lottery ticket can be made in cash, just like at the counter, but also contactless - small change and banknotes are accepted.
6. Once everything is done, the lottery ticket is submitted digitally, but the terminal issues a classic receipt that can be used to legitimise a win.

There are also detailed instructions in each terminal. A tap on "How it works" will show you in detail how to use the terminal.

Can the new Lotto Self-Service Terminal pay out winnings?

• Yes, it can: "Winnings up to a maximum amount of €8,000 can be paid out at the terminals," says Lotto Hessen in the press release.
• Alternatively, winners can simply take their receipt from the machine to a traditional retailer and have their winnings paid out.

Where are the lottery machines already available and where will they be in the future?

So far, the self-service terminals can be found in three Netto stores. These are the shops in Biebesheim, Flörsheim and Frankfurt-Harheim. "The aim is to offer the self-service terminals at more locations. By spring 2024, self-service lottery games should be possible in a total of ten Netto shops in Hesse," the press release states. It can be assumed that in the long term it will not only be possible to play the lottery by machine at Netto, but also at other supermarket chains.

According to other media reports, arcades are also being discussed as locations. In general, Lotto Hessen leaves all options open in its statement: "We want to break new ground with this innovative solution, which is unique in Germany, and appeal to younger, digitally savvy target groups in particular." The Hessian Coin-Operated Machine Association is said to already be in contact with Lotto Hessen in order to push ahead with an installation in Spielos.

What about player protection for self-service machines?

One question remains: Can such machines provide adequate protection for players and minors? The short answer is yes. The Hessian Ministry of the Interior, which is responsible for the supervision of gambling in Hesse, does not see any difficulties on these points. Accordingly, on 24 August, it granted permission for the self-service terminals to be operated in Hesse.

An identity card or, alternatively, a passport will be used as a verification medium. Similar to cigarettes or other gaming machines, the document is scanned to legitimise the gaming process. In addition, there is information - also relevant to player protection - on the function, prices and conditions. Of course, there is also information about the age limit and the potential dangers of gambling.

Conclusion

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