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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Push Gaming has entered the Bulgarian market thanks to an exclusive deal with Kaizen Gaming brand Betano, marking a milestone in its expansion in globally regulated markets.
For 12 weeks, tier-one operator Betano will have exclusive rights to Push Gaming’s portfolio in the country as it brings the studio’s hugely popular titles to Bulgaria for the first time.
Push’s extensive back catalogue of major hits, including Razor Shark, Razor Returns, Jammin’ Jars, Big Bamboo and Wild Swarm, are now ready to be enjoyed by players in Bulgaria, with more recent releases due to roll out imminently.
The launch enhances Push’s relationship with Kaizen Gaming, which has already seen success with its award-winning content in Greece, Denmark, and Brazil.
Agreements with over 15 direct integration partners have been achieved in 2024, and the supplier’s significant growth will be bolstered by several more announcements in the remainder of Q4.
Fiona Hickey, Chief Business Development Officer at Push Gaming, said: “Bulgaria is a territory we’ve been working on for some time, so it’s particularly pleasing to launch there with such an established and respected name as Betano.
“We know the strength of our product, and allied with Kaizen Gaming’s prominent positioning across regulated markets, we can make the most of our regional entries. They’re a fantastic strategic partner to work alongside, which breeds exceptional confidence that every launch period will perform strongly.”
Evangelos Dedoulis, Director of Product, Gaming and Rewards at Kaizen Gaming, added: “Push Gaming is responsible for some of the finest games on the market, and as such, we have been eagerly anticipating bringing them to our Betano platform in Bulgaria too. In other markets where we have integrated Push Gaming’s titles, the reception from our audience has been exceptional, and we expect the same in this case too.”
The post Bulgaria first for Push Gaming with Kaizen Gaming’s Betano appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Malta based iGaming software developer, Just Slots, has just announced the release of its second game, Shogun Skylord, which aims to build on the success of its first game and ultimately soar high into players esteem.
Just Slots’ next game titled ‘Shogun Skylord’ is set to release on the 24th February and harkens back to feudal Japan, but with an avian twist where samurai birds reign supreme. Just as the game plays on historical themes, Just Slots also pay homage to their development history and give players returning features such as two bonus buys – a fan favourite in their debut game, Sugar Heaven. Shogun Skylord also aims to generate a whirlwind momentum with fresh features by offering free spins with progressive multipliers, whilst taking things to another level with a 5×6 reel setup with 40 win lines.
Shogun Skylord stands out with other features such as hot spin which enhances the player’s fortunes by increasing the chance of getting into a bonus round. Alongside this are other lordly incentives like multiple RTPs as well as max wins up to 10,000x. The game will go live with renowned operators in the industry including Njord Group, Rhino Entertainment, Stake, Bitcasino, Sportsbet, Mystino and Highroller.
Commenting on their latest game, Christine Parkhill, CCO at Just Slots said, “Whilst Shogun Skylord marks a bold, stylistic departure from our first game, we are staying true to the excitement and innovation that made our debut game such a success. Our new release will transport players into a vivid historical fantasy, where samurai birds battle for the right to rule. We have dedicated time and effort into this game, honing down on offering striking visuals, immersive storytelling and cutting edge gameplay to create an experience that is both engaging and exciting.”
The aim with Shogun Skylord is to emulate Sugar Heaven’s success, which saw it climb to the top ten game on its debut casino. This was in addition to other impressive metrics such as 34% of players returning to Sugar Heaven, with just shy of 10% of overall users playing over 200 spins per session. All of these represent milestone achievements that highlight the quality of work emerging out of the studio.
Shogun Skylord will go live on the 24th February, with Just Slots third game Book of Arcane 100 soon to follow. Shogun Skylord will also be playable on sites such as Pommi.com, CasinoDays.com, Bitcasino.io and Stake.com. Just Slots is also offering potential players the chance to try it before fully launching in, with a publicly accessible demo live on their website.
The post One to Reign Supreme – Just Slots Launches Second Game, Shogun Skylord appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Global Managed Services Leader Strengthens Presence in Booming Brazilian iGaming Market
RokkerX, a global leader in managed services for the iGaming industry, is pleased to announce its expansion into Latin America with the launch of operations in São Paulo. This strategic move capitalises on the rapid growth of Brazil’s iGaming market, offering operators a competitive edge with expert support and localised solutions.
RokkerX has established itself as a trusted partner for iGaming operators worldwide, delivering high-quality managed services, including customer support, player retention, KYC, AML, fraud prevention, payments, trading, and operations. With its new São Paulo hub, RokkerX is set to provide tailored solutions to operators across Brazil and the wider North and South American markets, including Canada.
“With the increasing demand for high-quality managed services in the LatAm region, São Paulo is the perfect location for RokkerX to expand its footprint,” said Andy Rogers, CEO of RokkerX. “We are committed to helping operators navigate this dynamic market by offering the insights, tools, and operational support they need to succeed.”
This expansion aligns with RokkerX’s vision of being a trusted partner for iGaming operators, ensuring they remain agile and competitive in emerging markets. The São Paulo office will serve as a key center for providing localised expertise, leveraging RokkerX’s global capabilities to drive sustainable growth for its partners.
As regulatory frameworks evolve and the demand for iGaming services grows, RokkerX is well-positioned to deliver best-in-class solutions that enable operators to thrive in this fast-paced environment. The company’s entry into São Paulo marks an exciting chapter in its mission to power the future of iGaming through innovation, operational excellence, and deep market knowledge.
The post RokkerX Expands into Latin America with São Paulo Operations appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
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