Press Releases
UKGC: Information for operators re-opening land-based gambling premises
As restrictions on the lockdown ease the UKGC has published a number of frequently asked questions covering its expectations from land-based operators.
These FAQs are aimed at helping operators manage compliance with Government guidance on reopening with continued compliance with the Licence conditions and codes of practice (LCCP).
The Commission is also reminding operators they are still expected to continue to follow Customer Interaction guidance as doors are reopened to consumers.
Frequently asked questions
Which premises can open from 15 June?
Just betting offices in England are able to open from 15 June.
Do Operators still have to meet all the Gambling Act and LCCP requirements?
Yes, there are no changes to operators’ obligations. We therefore expect operators to have confidence in their ability to be fully compliant with our requirements when they reopen. Where we find evidence of non-compliance, we will take swift action.
Will the Commission undertake premises-based assessments?
The Commission’s approach will support the following Government objectives as set out in guidance:
- To minimise the contact resulting from visits to stores or outlets
- To minimise the number of unnecessary visits to offices
- To minimise non-essential travel
This means that the Commission will look to obtain premises information by remote means. This includes requesting electronic data or recordings and where possible/necessary undertaking Skype meetings.
Will Licensing Authorities undertake premises-based assessments?
LA requirements remain the same. Individual LAs will undertake their own risk assessments and implement policies and procedures accordingly.
Who do I report my concerns to if I think government Covid-19 guidelines are not being followed correctly?
The Gambling Commission is not responsible for addressing breaches of Covid19 guidance. The Health & Safety Executive (HSE), Local Authorities, and local Police Forces (England & Wales only) have the relevant information on their websites.
Risk Assessments
General business risk assessment
Whilst not a requirement, we would expect operators to consider the risks posed to compliance with the Act, LCCP and associated guidance. As such we may seek evidence to support this.
Do operators need to review their premises [local] risk assessment(s)?
Operators may have to implement changes to manage social distancing and to protect staff and customers. Where these changes are significant, and could affect the mitigation of local risks, operators must review and where necessary update their risk assessments.
Do operators need to update their AML risk assessment?
Land based operators in the regulated sector are required to regularly review their AML risk assessments. Casinos are not reopening in June, but we would expect them to review the risks when they do. Operators in the unregulated sector are expected to review the risks and if required update any risk assessments.
Premises
What do operators need to consider if they are putting screens around machines for customer protection?
Operators must ensure that whatever measures they put in place to socially distance customers, staff can continue to supervise the premises, monitor customers behaviour for signs of gambling-related harm and monitor compliance with age-restrictions.
Do the social distancing rules mean customer interactions are suspended?
No. Operators must ensure that staff can and do undertake customer interactions that are meaningful and effective and that they comply with the LCCP and with our Customer Interaction guidance .
Do operators still need to undertake Age Verification (AV) check programs?
Operators are still required to undertake these programs. Suppliers (e.g. Serve Legal) could also be undertaking their own business risk assessments that may require changes to the process.
If customers are wearing PPE (facemasks), are operators still required to undertake AV checks?
Yes, Government guidance states that customers can be asked to remove their masks for AV checks. If customers refuse, then staff should follow operator guidance on refusing service.
If customers are wearing PPE (facemasks), are operators still required to enforce self-exclusions?
Yes. There are no changes to an operator’s responsibilities. Operators are expected to review their policies and procedures and to take a pragmatic approach.
Can operators move their gaming machines to allow for social distancing? Where plans submitted to LA stipulate specific areas for machines (most likely betting shops) operators must contact the LA for advice first.
Can operators expand the use of TITO?
We expect full and proper supervision of these facilities, in particular the monitoring for potential money laundering or safer gambling issues. Operators must ensure that they can evidence appropriate controls when installing TITO and all gaming machines must comply with the relevant technical standards.
Can betting operators increase the number of SSBTs?
We expect full and proper supervision of these facilities. In particular the monitoring for potential money laundering or safer gambling issues. Provided operators can evidence appropriate controls when installing SSBTs, use can be expanded.
Can operators replace safer gambling messaging (posters/leaflets etc.) with social distancing/Covid 19 messaging?
Our guidance on the provision and display of information has not changed.
Will the Commission suspend test-purchasing?
We will continue to carry out test-purchasing to identify those that are operating unlawfully.
What will the Commission do about the period of time during which there were no test-purchase exercises?
We do not want operators to be disadvantaged and so we will be calculating results only for the periods during which premises are open.
Staff
What happens if staff will not or cannot undertake customer interactions due to social distancing or Covid 19 concerns?
Operators must ensure customer interactions take place. Staffing issues are a matter for individual operators, but our expectation is that they are confident in their abilities to meet all of our requirements, including customer interactions, when they reopen. Where we find evidence of non-compliance, we will take swift action.
What happens if a PML goes sick with C-19 or has to self-isolate?
Our expectation is that operators will have in place contingency plans. So long as this is the case, wherever possible the Commission will be flexible on arrangements.
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Africa
Meridianbet Expands B2B Operations into Nigeria, Entering a Regulated $2 Billion Betting Market
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Meridianbet, a subsidiary of Golden Matrix Group, Inc., has officially launched its B2B operations in Nigeria, one of the largest and fastest-growing betting markets in Africa. The companyâs entry into Nigeria further strengthens its 20-year presence in Africa, leveraging its proven track record in regulated markets to deliver world-class gaming products.
Through its newly licensed local entity, Masterlive Network Limited, Meridianbet has secured full regulatory approval from the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA), allowing it to operate in both sports betting and online casino verticals under License No: LSLGA/OP/OSB/MB041124.
The official launch of Meridianbet.ng marks a strategic expansion into a market worth over $2 billion, according to the research of Orange Business Intelligence Technology, with over 60 million Nigerians actively participate in betting, contributing to one of the fastest-growing industries on the continent.
Zoran Milosevic, CEO of Meridianbet, commented: âOur expansion into Nigeria marks a significant step in our long-term strategy to deepen our presence in Africaâs most dynamic gaming markets. With a highly engaged player base and strong industry growth, Nigeria presents a major opportunity for our B2B model. We are committed to bringing our cutting-edge technology, AI-powered betting solutions, and localized expertise to drive long-term success for our partners in the region.â
FY 2024 Revenue Growth & Investor Outlook
Golden Matrix Group has provided a preliminary full-year 2024 revenue estimate of $150 million, reflecting the companyâs continued growth trajectory. The Group expects to release its audited FY 2024 financial results in the coming days, offering investors a comprehensive performance overview. The Nigerian market represents a strategic opportunity for future revenue expansion, aligning with GMGIâs global strategy to strengthen its presence in high-growth gaming markets.
Key Market Potential & Strategic Expansion
According to the Orange Business Intelligence Technology (ORBIT), Nigeriaâs betting industry surpassed $2 billion back in 2020, with projections indicating up to $4.7 billion in annual revenue potential over the next decade. Football remains the primary driver of market growth, with a vast customer base engaging both online and offline. Meridianbetâs B2B model will provide advanced technology solutions, gaming content, and platform services to local operators, offering a scalable and highly adaptable system tailored to the Nigerian market.
A Strategic Milestone in Meridianbetâs African Growth
With operations in 18 markets across Europe, Africa, and Latin America, Meridianbet has built a reputation as a leading technology provider and betting operator. The companyâs expansion into Nigeria follows its long-standing success in established African markets, where it has been a dominant player for over two decades.
The soft launch of Meridianbet.ng is already delivering positive early results, with strong partner satisfaction and excellent customer feedback.
AI-Powered Innovation & Market Expansion
As part of this rollout, Meridianbet is introducing its proprietary AI Sports Betting Recommender and AI Casino Recommender, delivering personalized betting experiences based on real-time data, player behavior, and predictive analytics. These innovations, already proving successful in multiple markets, will enhance customer engagement, retention, and overall user satisfaction in Nigeriaâs rapidly evolving gaming landscape.
The post Meridianbet Expands B2B Operations into Nigeria, Entering a Regulated $2 Billion Betting Market appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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ELA Games, a supplier of innovative games in the iGaming industry, has partnered with RoyalCasino to enter the Danish market.
Royal Casino is Denmarkâs only land-based and online casino with over 33 years of experience in the gambling industry. The Danish RoyalCasino Group operates the land-based casino in their top-rated Hotel Royal, offering Danish players an elevated gaming experience.
ELA Gamesâ collaboration with the prestigious Danish brand marks a significant milestone for the development studio, as they are entering the Danish market. As a result, ELA Gamesâ innovative content, such as hallmark titles like Cash of Gods, Itâs Shark Time and Lucky Dwarfs, will be hosted on the RoyalCasino.dk platform.
David Fall, ELA Gamesâ Business Development Manager, commented on the partnership, âRoyalCasino is an illustrious figure in the Danish gaming scene, and weâre excited to partner with them to provide our content on their platform. RoyalCasino.dk, despite its pedigree, is a rapidly growing brand. With the various promotions prepared in tandem with this announcement, ELA Games looks forward to expanding in Denmark.â
Jonas Madsen, RoyalCasinoâs Director of Retention Marketing, added, âWeâre very excited about the addition of ELA Games to our portfolio of games at RoyalCasino.dk. ELA Games is an up-and-coming game provider who, in just a few years, has managed to create captivating games with quality graphics, and weâre confident that their content will cater to the preferences of our growing database of players.â
The post ELA Games Enters the Danish Market Through New Strategic Collaboration With RoyalCasino appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Conferences in Europe
Endorphina Club to Host GamingTECH CEE 2025 Awards Party at Prague Gaming & TECH Summit
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The highly anticipated GamingTECH CEE 2025 Awards Party, sponsored by Endorphina, will take place on March 25, 2025, as part of the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit. The event will be hosted at the elegant Galerie Louvre in Prague, transforming the venue into the exclusive âEndorphina Clubâ for an unforgettable evening of celebration and networking.
As the exclusive sponsor of the GamingTECH CEE Awards Party, Endorphina continues its tradition of supporting the gaming industryâs most prestigious event for CEE, following successful sponsorships in 2023 and 2024. This year, the âEndorphina Clubâ will bring a luxurious experience to summit participants, combining the excitement of the Awards Ceremony with top-tier entertainment, including live piano music, classical ballroom dancers, and a DJ to set the tone for a vibrant afterparty.
The evening will feature a standing 3-course buffet dinner, welcome drinks, beer, and unlimited consumption of wines and non-alcoholic beverages. Attendees can expect an engaging atmosphere, where business meets celebration, as the GamingTECH CEE 2025 Award winners are revealed. These awards celebrate excellence within the GameTech industry, with every winner determined by democratic votes from industry professionals and summit participants.
Zoltan Tuendik, Co-founder of HIPTHER, stated about the exciting event: âA huge thank you to Endorphina for their continued support of the GamingTECH CEE Awards Party at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit. Their commitment to celebrating innovation and excellence in the industry is truly commendable, and this yearâs âEndorphina Clubâ will undoubtedly offer an unforgettable experience for all attendees.â
Jan Urbanec, CEO of Endorphina commented: âAt Endorphina, we believe that gaming is not just about technologyâitâs about passion, creativity, and the experiences that bring people together. Sponsoring the GamingTECH CEE Awards Party for the third consecutive year reflects our commitment to celebrating innovation and excellence in the industry. This year, the âEndorphina Clubâ will offer an elevated experience at the heart of the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit, blending prestige with entertainment in a way that truly represents our brand. We look forward to welcoming our partners and industry friends to an unforgettable evening of recognition, networking, and celebration.â
 Endorphina, a leading B2B software provider headquartered in Prague, is known for its diverse and innovative slot games, utilized by top-tier operators in the iGaming industry. The companyâs software is certified by iTech Labs and GLI, reinforcing its reputation for reliability and integrity.
The Prague Gaming & TECH Summit, organized by HIPTHER, is a flagship event known for bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and professionals from the Gaming and Technology sectors. HIPTHER is an established event organizer and media brand, recognized for its impactful conferences, insightful publications, and dedication to showcasing advancements within the GameTech and Technology industries.
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The Endorphina Club and GamingTECH Awards Party is attended by the Prague Gaming & TECH Participants only. Pre-registration is required. Secure your spot at: Endorphina Club 2025 Registration
For more information about the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit and the GamingTECH CEE 2025 Awards, visit: https://hipther.com/events/prague/
The post Endorphina Club to Host GamingTECH CEE 2025 Awards Party at Prague Gaming & TECH Summit appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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