Spain's Lottery Sellers Call for Larger Christmas Jackpot to Match Inflation
Spain faces a cost-of-living crisis with rising housing and energy expenses diminishing people's disposable income. Lottery sellers say this also affects hopes of winning big in the traditional Christmas lottery.
Some players begin purchasing their Christmas tickets as early as spring, often spending significant amounts.
Calls to Increase Ticket Price and Jackpot
Borja Muniz, President of ANAPAL, representing 4,100 lottery shops across Spain, urged the government to raise both ticket prices and the grand prize for the Christmas lottery, known as the "Fat One."
"The jackpot hasn't changed in 14 years, while prices have climbed about 26%." "Before, you could buy two apartments with it. Now it barely covers one."
ANAPAL proposes increasing the price of a ticket tenth, or "decimo," from 20 to 25 euros and raising the top prize from 400,000 to 500,000 euros per winning decimo. This proposal has been submitted to the state lottery agency and the Budget Ministry.
The agency running the Christmas draw declined to comment on the proposal.
Lottery Sellers Seek Higher Commissions
Sellers report that inflation and rising costs have squeezed their profits. They request raising their commission on Christmas lottery sales from 4.5% to 6%, aligning it with other national lottery draws.
Upcoming Changes for Spain’s Christmas Lottery 2025
The 2025 Christmas Lottery, scheduled for December 22, will feature historic changes to the traditional draw.
Author's summary: Spain's lottery sellers push for higher ticket prices, bigger jackpots, and increased commissions to offset inflation and maintain the lottery’s appeal amid rising living costs.