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Entain: Strong 2021 performance demonstrating strength of our diversified growth model and global platform

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Entain plc, the global sports betting, gaming and interactive entertainment Group, is pleased to announce its results for the year ended 31 December 2021. The strong performance reflects the capabilities and diversification provided by the Group’s industry leading platform in driving growth.

Operational Highlights:

  • Strong growth across the Group with NGR up 7% (8%cc) in the year
    • Online NGR up 12% (13%cc) in 2021, the ninth consecutive year of double-digit online growth
    • Growth in actives of 25% in the year as we expand our appeal to a broader audience
    • Good performance in Retail as year end volumes returned to over 90% of pre-Covid levels
  • BetMGM continues to go from strength to strength as a leader in the fast growing US market
    • Established as the number two operator for sports betting and iGaming with a 23% market share in the fourth quarter across the markets in which it operates
    • Market leader in iGaming with 29% market share in Q4 2021 in the markets in which it operates
    • Live in 21 markets, reaching over 37% of the U.S. adult population, with launches in Illinois and Ontario planned for the coming months
    • Upgraded expectations for net revenue from operations of over $1.3bn in 2022 and anticipates reaching positive EBITDA in 2023
  • Continued execution of growth strategy into new markets
    • Completed acquisitions of Bet.pt in Portugal and Enlabs AB in the Baltics as well as UNIKRN to drive access to the esports skill based wagering market
    • Further growth secured since the start of the new financial year with three transactions, including the acquisition of Avid Gaming to drive growth across Canada
    • Launch of the Ennovate hub to explore use of innovative technologies, products and services to further enhance the customer experience
  • Further progress under the Group’s Sustainability Charter delivering industry leading ESG
    • ARCTM (“Advanced Responsibility & Care”) programme continues to progress well, with real-time customer interaction trials underway, along with initial stages of international rollout
    • A number of initiatives launched across the year, including a commitment to net zero carbon emissions by 2035, and EnTrain to benefit the lives of 1m people through access to technology
    • Named EGR Operator of the Year, as well as Socially Responsible Operator of the Year at the SBC Awards North America
    • Entain continues to be the only online-led gaming company included in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices, in addition to its continued inclusion in the FTSE4Good index

Financial Highlights:

  • Strong financial performance; Group Underlying EBITDA1,4 up +5% at £881.7m at the upper end of guidance
    • Online Underlying EBITDA1,4 up +12% at £899.0m reflecting the double digit growth in all key markets excluding Germany and the Netherlands (excluding Germany and the Netherlands online NGR was +21cc%)
    • Total Retail NGR -7%cc (-3%cc9) and Underlying EBITDA1,4 of £66.9m was £31.4m behind the prior year
    • Total Group Revenue of £3,830.0m up +8% (+9%cc) in 2021
    • Including 50% share of BetMGM joint venture, Group FY21 NGR was up 14% (15% cc)
  • BetMGM (the Group’s joint venture in the US) continues to perform strongly, with FY21 NGR of approximately $850m7, up nearly 5 times versus the prior year
  • To repay £44m received under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (“furlough scheme”) in FY21
  • Group profit after tax1 was £275.6m, up 142% compared to 2020
  • Underlying free cashflow8, before the investment into BetMGM and acquisitions/disposals, of £537.3m
  • Year end net debt of £2,086.4m with leverage at 2.4x ensuring balance sheet flexibility to support our growth strategy

Jette Nygaard-Andersen, CEO of Entain, commented:

“Our Full Year results demonstrate yet again that Entain is a business with growth built into its business model. Our strong performance is underpinned by the Entain platform which encompasses the compelling combination of our proprietary technology, our outstanding people around the world, and our industry-leading operational capabilities.  It is this unique platform that enables us to deliver an ever-improving customer experience, to embrace emerging consumer and technological trends, and to grow into new markets and product areas.

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All of our major markets have performed well.  In particular, BetMGM in the US has delivered a five times increase in net gaming revenue versus the previous year, and is ready to challenge for the number one position across the markets in which it operates.  Elsewhere, our retail business has recovered strongly and volumes have now returned to 90% of pre-Covid levels as restrictions have eased and customers have returned to our shops.

As ever, I would like to thank each and every one of our colleagues for their dedication, hard work and professionalism in helping to achieve these results. Given the quality of our people, the ongoing broad-based growth of the business, its continuing momentum, and the investments that we are making in innovation to support our future expansion, we remain confident in our financial performance for FY22 and beyond.”

Group Reported1,2
Year ended 31 December 2021 2020 Change CC3
£m £m % %
Net gaming revenue (NGR) 3,886.3 3,628.5 7% 8%
Revenue 3,830.0 3,561.6 8% 9%
Gross profit 2,435.8 2,308.6 6%
Underlying EBITDAR4 898.8 862.1 4%
Underlying EBITDA4 881.7 843.1 5%
Underlying operating profit5 484.1 529.5 (9%)
Underlying profit before tax5 527.3 350.6
Profit after tax 275.6 113.8
Diluted EPS (p) 44.7 15.6
Continuing adjusted diluted EPS(p) 53.8 62.8
Continuing adjusted diluted EPS excl US(p) 81.1 73.1
Dividend per share (p)

Dividend
The Board has not proposed a final dividend for FY2021.  Recognising the importance of dividends to shareholders alongside our capital allocation priorities in supporting the Group’s growth strategy, the Board continue to keep the recommencement of the payment of dividends under on-going review.

Outlook
The Group has delivered strong results in FY2021, reflecting both the diversified nature of our business model, the strength of our platform and the quality of our people.  As we start 2022 we see retail heading towards pre-Covid levels and online performing inline with expectations against tough prior year comparables.  As global economies steadily emerge from the impact of the pandemic, we continue to provide our customers with great products and experiences.  As a result, we remain confident in our financial performance for 2022 as well as our long-term prospects.

Notes

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  • 2021 and 2020 reported results are audited and relate to continuing operations
  • Reported results are provided on a post IFRS 16 implementation basis
  • Growth on a constant currency basis is calculated by translating both current and prior year performance at the 2021 exchange rates
  • EBITDAR is defined as earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation, rent and associated costs, share based payments and share of JV income. EBITDA is defined as EBITDAR after charging rent and associated costs. Both EBITDAR and EBITDA are stated pre separately disclosed items
  • Stated pre separately disclosed items
  • Adjusted for the impact of separately disclosed items, foreign exchange movements on financial indebtedness and losses/gains on derivative financial instruments (see note 10 in the financial statements. EPS is also disclosed excluding BetMGM as this gives a better view of the EPS attributable to the Entain trading businesses)
  • BetMGM revenues comprise of sports (Online and Retail) and iGaming revenues
  • Underlying free cashflow is EBITDA less working capital, capital expenditure, finance lease, corporate taxes and before the investment in BetMGM and acquisitions/disposals
  • Retail numbers are quoted on a LFL basis. During 2021 there was an average of 4,540 shops in the estate, compared to an average of 4,727 in the same period last year

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Week 12/2025 slot games releases

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Here are this weeks latest slots releases compiled by European Gaming

Evoplay has reimagined one of its most popular fishing-themed slots The Greatest Catch with latest seasonal release The Easter Catch. Keeping the original’s well-loved mechanics, this special edition introduces a fresh Easter-themed design, adding a seasonal feel while delivering the same exciting gameplay. Played on a 5×3 reel layout with 10 paylines, the game introduces bonus symbols, which can land anywhere in the base game.

Evoplay gives a seasonal twist to popular fishing series in The Easter Catch

 

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In a world where slots are all about the thrill of the spin, PopOK Gaming has raised the stakes—bringing the high-rolling world of art and fortune together in Eye on the Money, an industry-first collaboration with globally renowned street artist Alec Monopoly. This is not just another slot game. This is a statement, a revolution in gaming.

Eye-on-the-Money by PopOK Gaming Brings a New Breath to Slot Industry

 

GAMOMAT, one of the leading independent German software developers for slot games, is launching its brand-new title “Great Grizzly” as part of its Gaming for the Climate initiative. Set in the expansive wilds of North America, Great Grizzly takes players on a stunning journey through a kingdom ruled by the majestic grizzly bear. The grizzly bear is the big star of this new release, joined by an array of beautiful animals roaming on the reels

 

Amusnet has released Sparta Legend, a thrilling new video slot that transports players to the heart of Ancient Greece, where fearless warriors fight for fortune and honour. Packed with action and bold gameplay, this release is set to captivate players with its immersive theme, stunning visuals and rewarding mechanics. Featuring a dynamic 5×3 reel setup with 20 fixed paylines, Sparta Legend offers an exhilarating gaming experience where every spin feels like taking part in ancient history.

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Stakelogic’s Stone Gaze of Medusa 2 transports players deep into Greek mythology, boosting Medusa’s powers for a more thundering sequel packed with eye-catching graphics and innovative gameplay. Boost your winnings with the Multiplier Symbol! The symbol’s displayed multiplier multiplies your total win and remains active until all winning combinations are cleared.

Stakelogic Unleashes More Mythological Mayhem with Stone Gaze of Medusa 2

 

Galaxsys is expanding into slot games with the launch of its first title, El Dorado. The game invites players to discover the legendary Golden City, filled with treasures waiting to be found. The game offers the excitement of a traditional slot with a unique twist, featuring just one line but multiple sections for potential big wins.

 

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Play’n GO’s Mystery Egg Surprise, brings a cracking twist to classic gameplay with a charming Easter-inspired theme and rewarding surprises hidden within every spin. Mystery Egg Surprise is a 3-reel slot with 5 fixed paylines. The thrill intensifies as players uncover hidden treats with each winning combination. Landing multiple Scatter Symbols enhances the experience, triggering Free Spins and unleashing even bigger surprises.

Mystery Egg Surprise Cracks Open Big Wins

 

Relax Gaming is readying itself for the biggest breakout of the year as everyone’s favourite outlaw returns in Wild Chapo 2 Dream Drop. The much-loved Mexican anti-hero, Chapo, is looking to get out of jail and help land players Mega Jackpots in this 6×3 epic. Big wins come through Wild Re-Spins, Free Spins and of course, the legendary Dream Drop Jackpot.

Relax Gaming sees its wildest bandito return in Wild Chapo 2 Dream Drop

 

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Kendoo has enhanced its in-demand content offering with the launch of Joker Flash Fever, a high-energy slot with dynamic gameplay designed to keep players engaged. This 5-reel game builds excitement with every spin, leading to substantial wins through its Fever Feature, Lucky Respin, and Multiplier Wheel.

 

Kendoo expands Joker series with Flash Joker Fever

 

Peter & Sons proudly announces the launch of Potion Power, a spellbinding high-volatility video slot where players can step into a mystical world where bubbling brews and enchanted ingredients hold the key to incredible fortunes! Set within a hidden alchemist’s laboratory, Potion Power invites players to harness the power of mysterious elixirs to conjure massive wins

Unleash Magical Wins in Potion Power - The Latest Slot Adventure from Peter & Sons

 

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Asia

Spintec wins Best ETG Solution Award in Asia

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Asia Gaming Awards recognised Spintec’s Charisma as the best among electronic table gaming solutions based on its added value, reliability, support, functionality, customer experience, and revenue generation.

The award confirms that Spintec’s role as one of the leading providers of electronic table games (ETGs) in Asia is not a coincidence. It is especially admirable that they are most successful in Macau, an extremely important market known for its size, strict regulations, and high operational standards. Spintec’s presence in Asia is therefore stronger than ever, driven by a deep understanding of the market’s needs and a commitment to delivering cutting-edge ETG solutions that enhance the player experience and casino profitability.

Spintec’s products are the preferred choice for operators looking for reliability, innovation, and seamless integration into their gaming floors.

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Spintec’s success in Asia is also fuelled by their unwavering focus on product excellence and continuous innovation, such as the recent launch of their Charisma line. From stand-alone, compact solutions to multiplayer and amphitheater setups, Spintec’s ETGs are designed to optimize player engagement and operational efficiency. Casinos across Asia trust Spintec’s solutions to maximize uptime and enhance gameplay.

Maria Garcia is the Executive and Sales Director of APE, Spintec’s exclusive distributor in Macau, Singapore, the Philippines and Malaysia. As she was receiving the award, she emphasised: “Spintec’s ETGs have quickly become one of the bestsellers in our portfolio — and that’s no coincidence. With the launch of the Charisma product line, it’s clear their solutions are superior in every aspect. We are beyond thrilled that Spintec has received this prestigious recognition. It proves that APE has decided on the best possible partnership and it gives us additional drive to continue developing our markets.”

Maksim Gojković, Spintec’s Regional Sales Manager, agrees: “We are extremely proud and thankful for this recognition. Asia is one of Spintec’s most important markets and the cooperation with APE has been admirable. This latest award just proves that products developed in cooperation with good partners will always bring an advantage.”

The post Spintec wins Best ETG Solution Award in Asia appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Elevating Player Experience: Cloudfresh’s Vision for AI-Driven Gaming Support

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HIPTHER, organizer of the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025, is excited to welcome Cloudfresh as the Networking Break Sponsor, a company empowering businesses with top-tier cloud services. As a Zendesk Premier Partner, Cloudfresh specializes in integrating, optimizing, and scaling the best in-class cloud solutions, acting as a vital link between companies and cloud technologies. In this exclusive interview, we speak with Vita Usatyuk, Sales Executive at Cloudfresh, to explore how AI, omnichannel support, and personalized player interactions are reshaping customer service in gaming.

 

Player support is becoming a crucial factor in gaming retention. How can integrated customer service solutions enhance player satisfaction and engagement while keeping gamers in the game?

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Integrated customer service solutions are essential for enhancing player satisfaction and engagement, ultimately driving player retention. By providing support across various channels like chat, messaging, phone, and email, gaming companies can meet players where they are, offering seamless and convenient assistance. This omnichannel approach ensures that players can easily reach out for help before, during, or after a game. Furthermore, AI-powered tools can provide instant help and personalized interactions, addressing player needs proactively and efficiently. A robust support system contributes significantly to a positive gaming experience, fostering loyalty and encouraging players to stay engaged with the game.

 

The gaming industry faces unique challenges in customer support, from omnichannel demands to peak traffic surges. How does Cloudfresh leverage Zendesk to help gaming companies streamline support operations and optimize agent workload?

The gaming industry presents unique customer support challenges, including omnichannel demands and peak traffic surges, especially during new release windows. We in Cloudfresh implement Zendesk solution for the customer support to help gaming companies streamline their support operations and optimize agent workload. Zendesk offers a unified platform that integrates various support channels, enabling agents to manage interactions from a single workspace. AI-powered automation can handle routine inquiries, allowing agents to focus on complex issues. Zendesk also provides tools for intelligent ticket routing, workforce management, and performance monitoring, which helps optimize agent efficiency and ensure timely issue resolution.

 

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Personalization is key to delivering a top player experience. How can gaming brands use AI-driven customer support to provide more tailored interactions and proactively address player needs?

Personalization in gaming support is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. AI-driven solutions are empowering gaming companies to meet this demand in innovative ways. Here are some practical examples:

  1. AI Agents for 24/7 Support and Instant Answers: Players expect support around the clock. Zendesk’s AI Agents can provide instant, accurate answers to common questions, drawing from your knowledge base. This ensures players get the help they need immediately, any time of day.
  2. Intelligent Triage and Routing: AI can analyze incoming support tickets and route them to the right agent or team based on the player’s issue, game, or platform. This ensures that players are connected with specialists who can address their specific needs efficiently.
  3. Proactive Support and Personalized Recommendations: By analyzing player data and behavior, AI can help anticipate common issues and proactively offer solutions or tips. This could include in-game notifications, personalized FAQs, or tailored support articles. For example, Kaizen Gaming, a European eGaming company, delivers 95% resolution at first contact with live chat and 360° views of customers. This level of insight allows for highly personalized and proactive support.  
  4. Automation for Scalability: Gaming companies often experience peak support volumes around game releases or updates. Zendesk’s automation capabilities, enhanced by AI, can handle surging ticket volumes and reduce wait times. Play Games24x7, an Indian online gaming company, reduced their resolution time by 68% by leveraging Zendesk automation and analytics. This demonstrates the power of AI in scaling support operations efficiently.  

By leveraging Zendesk’s AI-driven features, gaming companies can provide more tailored, efficient, and proactive support experiences, ultimately driving player satisfaction and loyalty.

 

Cloudfresh has extensive expertise in implementing and optimizing Zendesk solutions for gaming businesses. Can you share a recent success story where your solutions significantly improved customer experience?

Yes, we have many success stories, and one recent example is our work with Bloober Team, a renowned game development studio specializing in psychological horror games. Bloober Team faced challenges in providing efficient player support, especially during peak times around game releases.  They needed a solution that could scale, provide comprehensive data from players, and streamline their support workflow.  

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We implemented Zendesk’s Enterprise Suite for Bloober Team, including add-on apps and a custom ticket form to gather essential information from players.  We also integrated DeepL for translation to assist with their diverse player base.   

The results were transformative.  Bloober Team now has a robust system to manage player support, allowing them to react quickly to issues and provide timely solutions.  This has significantly improved their ability to maintain contact with players, address concerns, and ultimately enhance the player experience.  This case demonstrates our ability to tailor Zendesk solutions to the specific needs of gaming companies, helping them to overcome support challenges and foster stronger player relationships.

 

At the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025, AI and automation in gaming support will be major discussion points. How do you see AI-driven support evolving in the next few years, and what should gaming operators focus on to stay ahead?

It’s clear that AI is no longer a future possibility in gaming support – it’s the present and the driving force of its evolution. We’re seeing a distinct separation between companies that are embracing AI and those that aren’t. Those “CX Trendsetters” are pulling ahead, and gaming operators need to be in that category. It’s not just about replacing human agents either; it’s about ‘human-centric AI.’ We’re talking about augmenting agents, giving them superpowers to handle complex issues while AI handles the routine.

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Looking ahead, expect AI to get even smarter – predictive, hyper-personalized, with more natural conversations. And it’s not just chatbots anymore; AI-powered automation will touch every support channel, creating those seamless omnichannel experiences players demand. Crucially, AI will provide a wealth of data and insights, allowing for data-driven optimization of support strategies.

So, for gaming operators who want to stay ahead, it boils down to this: invest strategically in AI, empower your agents to work alongside it, focus on leveraging those AI-driven insights, build systems that can scale and adapt, and, of course, prioritize data security. That’s from my point of view the roadmap for success in the AI-driven future of gaming support.

 

With Cloudfresh at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025, this year’s event will showcase the latest innovations in AI-driven player support and customer service strategies. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with industry leaders, gain exclusive insights, and explore the future of gaming support technology!

The post Elevating Player Experience: Cloudfresh’s Vision for AI-Driven Gaming Support appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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