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Mars, one of largest Confectionary producers have withdrawn an M&M’s slot machine style dispenser amidst fears from youth gambling expert Dr Samantha Thomas, these machines could ‘normalise’ gambling to children.The slot machine in question is very similar to a one-armed bandit machine, you pull the lever and the reels spin to reveal M&M’s figures before dispensing the sweets. Dr Thomas found the toys on sale in the M&M’s shop in Leicester Square, London.
‘Normalise’ Gambling In Children
She told the Guardian, “ While these products seem like innocent toys, they have the potential to normalise gambling as a fun activity for children.” “ Our research shows that children are often unable to understand the risks associated with slot machines. They remember the bright lights and positive sounds associated with the machines, and think they are a fun way to make money. “Combining the winning features of a slot machine with such well-recognised candy brand and cartoon characters certainly may give children the perception that these are about wins rather than losses.”
Withdrawn From Sale
Mars, who own M&M’s brand were contacted by PM’s about the machines but initially declined to comment and dismissed the complaints. Since then they have now confirmed they have withdrawn the machines.A spokesperson at Mars said, “ Whilst the product was neither designed to normalise gambling nor to appeal to children, we have to listen to the concerns raised and have decided to remove it from our stores.”Recent studies have shown that problem gambling in children from the age of 11 to 16 had risen significantly and is still rising. Online gambling games that offer Loot boxes have recently come under fire, tighter registration and age verification rules need to be more stringent in the fight against advertisers targeting children.