Editorial note: this guide is general information about how bingo, competitions, lotteries and gambling work in the UK. It is not advice, and it does not describe any specific promotion offered by Fortune Games. Rules, prices and regulations can change, so always check the operator’s current terms.
What happens if a competition doesn’t sell out?
It depends on the competition’s terms. Many operators still run the draw and award the prize even if not every ticket sold. Others include a clause that lets them extend the closing date, switch to a cash alternative worth a share of ticket sales, or — less often — cancel and refund. The terms and conditions you agree to when entering set out exactly what happens, so they are worth reading first.
Common outcomes
The most entrant-friendly approach is a guaranteed draw, where the operator promises to award the prize regardless of how many tickets sell. Where sales are low, some operators instead offer a cash alternative — often a percentage of the money taken — rather than handing over a high-value item bought at a loss. A few set a minimum number of sales; if that is not met, they may extend the deadline to sell more tickets, or cancel the competition and refund entries.
What to check before you enter
Look for the words “guaranteed draw” if you want certainty the prize will be awarded. Check whether there is a minimum-sales clause and what happens if it is not reached, and confirm whether any cash alternative is fixed or based on a share of sales. Reputable operators state all of this clearly. Under consumer law they must also treat you fairly and not rely on hidden or unfair terms, so a cancelled competition should normally mean your money is returned.
Frequently asked questions
Will the prize still be given away if tickets don’t sell out?
Often yes, especially in a “guaranteed draw”. But some competitions reserve the right to extend, offer a cash alternative or cancel if a minimum number of tickets is not sold.
What is a guaranteed draw?
It is a competition where the operator promises to award the prize on the closing date regardless of how many tickets are sold, giving entrants certainty the draw will go ahead.
Could I get a cash alternative instead?
Sometimes. If sales are low, some operators award cash worth a share of ticket sales rather than the headline prize. The terms should say whether this can happen.
Do I get a refund if it’s cancelled?
If an operator cancels a competition it should normally refund entry fees, and consumer law requires fair treatment. Check the terms and contact the operator if a refund is delayed.
Related guides: How winners are chosen · Refunds on competition tickets · Are prize competitions worth it?
18+ only. Gambling should be fun, never a way to make money. Please play responsibly and only with money you can afford to lose. If gambling is affecting you or someone you know, free, confidential support is available 24/7 from the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133, run by GamCare. You can also visit BeGambleAware (begambleaware.org) or self-exclude from UK-licensed online operators through GAMSTOP (gamstop.co.uk).