Fynbus bans gambling advertisements on buses in Funen

Fynbus, the public transport company in the Danish island of Funen, has unanimously decided to prohibit advertisements for gambling, casinos, and betting on its buses. The board’s chair, Tim Vermund, who is also a council member in Odense Municipality, emphasized the responsibility the company holds, especially given the number of young people using their services. He cited concerns over gambling addiction, including alarming instances of young individuals losing their homes due to excessive gambling.

The decision comes in light of a shift in attitudes since 2021, with other transport companies already banning such advertisements. Notably, Svendborg Municipality has implemented a similar prohibition on their buses. Recently, Martin Stenmann, a member of the Nyborg Municipality council, raised concerns about these advertisements, prompting Fynbus to address the issue in their board meeting.

Vermund noted that the anticipated ban is not expected to result in significant financial losses for the company. Fynbus has been in discussions with Midttrafik, which has successfully maintained advertising revenue despite a similar ban, suggesting that Fynbus can expect similar outcomes. The board believes that despite the restrictions, they can still attract advertisers, as bus advertisements remain highly visible and appealing.

The ban will take effect in 2027, coinciding with the expiration of the existing contract between Fynbus and the advertising companies currently using their buses for promotions.