According to the company's financial report, the absence of a major international football tournament this summer and “volatile” sporting results in the first half of the year had a negative impact on the results.
The company enjoyed strong momentum in its online offering, where adjusted operating profits rose 32% to £57.2m, but income generated in retail outlets slipped.
“Internationally, our US business continues to perform well and in Australia … we are competing hard and diversifying our product range,” pointed out the official statement.
The bookmaker’s revenues grew 3pc to £837m in the 26 weeks to June 27, but pre-tax profits tumbled to £93.5m, from £100.7m in the same period of last year.
“Our product improvements combined with improved marketing have seen both existing customers respond positively, and the number of new customers start growing again during the period,” said Philip Bowcock, who was promoted from chief financial officer to chief executive officer in March.