In 1966, Fred Done placed a heartfelt bet of £25 on England winning the World Cup, securing £200 in winnings. That bet, driven by passion rather than cold calculation, became the seed money for Done’s first betting shop in Broughton. From this modest start, Fred Done built BetFred, one of the largest betting empires in the UK, with 1,350 shops and a thriving online presence.
Growing up in Salford as the son of an illegal bookmaker, Done had a keen sense of opportunity. His success was not merely a product of luck but of tireless effort, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the gambling business. After horse racing was halted during the foot-and-mouth outbreak, he capitalized on dog racing, filling his shop and doubling turnover in under a year.
Despite challenges, including his initial hesitation toward online betting, Fred Done’s business acumen led BetFred to great heights, and his brand became synonymous with sports sponsorship, especially in football and rugby. His business journey included both triumphs and missed opportunities, such as turning down the chance to buy a stake in Manchester United.
Now in his 80s, Done remains the chairman of BetFred while also focusing on philanthropy. His contributions to youth projects, like the Hideout Youth Zone in Gorton, underscore his belief in giving back to the community that shaped him.
Despite the criticisms of gambling, Done remains proud of his regulated and legal operations, emphasizing the importance of responsible gambling. His legacy is one of hard work, adaptability, and community spirit, with his betting empire continuing to flourish across the UK.
