Huge rollover jackpots in the Lotto are not driving consumers into stores when the winnings are at a more normal level, according to retailers.

They fear Camelot’s Lotto relaunch has created a two-tier lottery, with massive interest in the big rollover prizes, but a lot less when the prize level goes back down again.

With big money prizes now harder to come by, retailers told Retail Express that shoppers were either turning to scratchcards or giving up altogether.

People have either switched to scratchcards or stopped playing if there’s not a big jackpot

“There’s definitely been a change in the lottery dynamic,” said Raaj Chandarana, of Premier Tara’s News, High Wycombe, Bucks. “People who might have played once or twice a week are now only doing it when it’s a big draw.”

Bay Bashir of Belle Vue Convenience Store (Lifestyle Express), said: “The £66m jackpot week was double in terms of business, but it didn’t spark any ongoing interest in playing the game.”

John Parkinson of Broadway Premier News, Penrhyn Bay, Llandudno, added: “The changes have had a detrimental effect on the lottery. People have either switched to scratchcards or stopped playing if there’s not a big jackpot.”

A Camelot spokesperson said: “As promised, the record £66m Lotto jackpot resulted in unprecedented demand for Lotto tickets. The recent rollover series brought in new and additional players, and we are continuing to help retailers build on that momentum.”

The spokesperson added that subsequent draws had enjoyed “strong” sales, with big prizes promised that would offer retailers “even more great sales opportunities”.