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THE FUTURE IS PROMISING. THE WORLD OF LOTTERIES AND BETTING IS EVOLVING, CREATING ASTOUNDING CROSSOVERS WITH THE RETAIL INDUSTRY
Custom Group presents an unexpected market overview: new technology trends with specific modular and scalable requirements, unprecedented integrated solutions, demand for a global presence with service centres and multi-sector expertise to support partners, distributors, customers and industry players.
The gaming industry is going through an unprecedented revolution. Custom presents the latest innovations and a thorough scenario overview focusing on ICE TOTALLY GAMING – booth S5-211. With more than two decades of experience, Custom is positioned as a leader in the evolution of the Lottery, Gaming and Betting industry. The Group forecasts a +180% increase in turnover for the two-year period 2024-25 based on market data and internal forecasts in the wake of online gaming, which has been growing rapidly for the past two years. In fact, the sports betting sector recorded a 30 percent increase in 2022, winnings amounting to 69 billion € online, once again highlighting the positive trend that will also include the Lottery world by virtue of the 20 new licensing tenders which will ensure further global growth. Custom comes across as strong to ICE with a global and diversified presence, offering the widest range of integrated solutions to multiple markets and enabling all types of stakeholders to choose from the Group’s different solutions and technologies based on unique and synergistic know-how. This -one stop shop- approach opens new horizons and expands opportunities by providing unique services throughout more than 76 different countries.
INDUSTRY TRENDS
- Expertise, Global Presence & Service. Custom, which operates in 76 countries, provides innovative and sustainable technology solutions for different but now increasingly synergistic fields such as Lottery&Betting and Retail. Custom’s global presence ensures total and comprehensive value chain management, guaranteed throughout all stages: design, customisation, pre/after sales and services. 5 Production plants and more than 680 employees including 280 engineers.
- Phigital: Self-Service evolution and convergence of online and physical. The U.S. market for self-service systems is estimated at $4.5 billion by 2026. Custom provides advanced self-service solutions capable of ensuring high security standards, including smart lockers as well as anti-corruption and anti-fraud technologies. In fact, Custom has a track record of more than 3 decades in providing kiosk technology solutions in several different markets.
- POS Refresh – Point of Sale (POS) modernisation: attended & unattended solutions. Custom presents advanced POS solutions to optimise the point of sale. POS Refresh” has been an IT investment priority in 2023 for 50 percent of retailers. Digital Environment: Audio-video and multimedia solutions to make environments interactive and engaging. Custom offers multi-sensory experiences with solutions such as content management players, interactive tables and custom touch monitors.
Custom is a player that can best serve all kinds of stakeholders and different markets. Custom Group now has more than 300,000 installations in Gaming, Lottery and Betting in 76 countries, registering a convergence of the Lottery & Betting sector with the retail sector in the last two years.
HIGHLIGHTS
Attended & Unattended solutions which focus on traditional and hybrid cashpoints. DAYTONA and ARAGON POS terminals, Custom’s reliable Retail Lottery printers, and ultra-fast devices for scanning different ticket sizes. This portfolio ensures a fast and error-free service. Custom’s self-service solutions are the most technologically advanced devices to date, made for customers who want to play autonomously.
Trend for Self-Service and “customised and integrated” experiences thanks to the Group Solutions. For more than 3 decades, Custom has worked behind the scenes providing printing and scanning technologies that power kiosks in aviation, parking, lotteries, gaming, and retail. Custom’s solutions aim to engage players where and how they want, offering personalized gaming experiences. For 2024, Custom has expanded its product range with modular kiosk components, all-in-one solutions, and smart lockers that enable retailers to quickly deploy self-service terminals throughout the store. CONNECT is designed to meet the needs of different applications – unattended or attended – in the countertop or floor standing version, in a compact and stylish design. ARAGON is the POS Terminal for the future with a range of processors for any task: from entry level Intel® Celeron®, up to Core i3, and high performing Core i5. This device boasts a modern and slim design with futureproof full HD touch display and a full glass front.
SILK II is a POS Terminal with standard Android 11 and Google Play Store. A full set of USB interfaces will allow you to connect all your accessories. Bluetooth® and Wi-Fi® are also integrated. GLASS27 is Custom’s newest Advanced Solution. Thanks to the revolutionary FHD full glass technology with built-in monitor and receipt printer, GLASS27 combines style and function, supports both Windows and Android operating systems, and is capable of integrating the market’s most frequently used PinPads. This solution is available in desktop, pedestal and wall mount, thus becoming the perfect match for the needs of multiple markets and businesses.
Point of Sale (POS) Modernisation and Mobile Solutions. The POS remains at the heart of every retail store, and Custom is ready to help retailers in the process of upgrading POS hardware and software. ARAGON POS terminal is the perfect solution for enhancing point-of-sale transactions, adding style to any counter with power and reliability for Windows and Linux. Mobile is having a major impact on in-store sales. According to a study by the IHL Group, companies whose staff used mobile sales tools experienced a 77% growth in sales. Mobile POS continues to play a major role in today’s shopping experience, not only for the customer, but also for the store clerk. Custom’s Ranger family of mobile devices, tablets and mobile printers enables retailers to engage customers throughout the entire in-store shopping process: at the sidewalk, in the hallway, in the shop floor, or next to the car. T-RANGER is a 10.1-inch multifunctional tablet for store and warehouse use. Extremely robust and powered by a 10,000 mAh battery, T-RANGER is designed to withstand the impact of your activity all day, every day.
Transparency and Trust: Veriprint® technology enables transparency and traceability of all lottery transactions. Each ticket can be scanned and stored, ensuring that lottery results are tamper-proof. This transparency builds user-trust and eliminates doubts of fraud or manipulation.
This year has been an exciting journey for SmartSoft. Both internally and externally, the company has undergone significant transformation. SmartSoft continues to pursue ambitious goals driven by teamwork and unity. The company fosters a culture of collaboration, where team members and partners support one another, share objectives, and work towards common interests. This synergy is powered by a diverse group of individuals, united by a shared mission to redefine the iGaming industry.
As a result, the number of unique customers grew by an impressive 75%—a remarkable achievement.
So, how did SmartSoft achieve such success?
Team Expansion and User Growth
SmartSoft made great progress this year by adding 40 new team members, strengthening its skills and knowledge across different areas. This expansion helped create a more dynamic work environment and played a key role in improving the company’s overall performance. As a result, SmartSoft saw an impressive 75% growth in unique users compared to last year. This increase in users highlights the company’s growing global reach, its ability to attract a wide audience, and its commitment to offering exciting and innovative gaming experiences.
New Markets and Partnerships
This year, SmartSoft made remarkable strides by entering 25 new markets, significantly enhancing its global footprint. The company also established several strategic partnerships with leading operators and platforms, including Betfair, Betway, Stoiximan, Betnacional, LottoStar, Betmexico and Qtech. These collaborations are expected to unlock new opportunities and open doors to fresh audiences worldwide. SmartSoft is excited about the direction these partnerships will take, and more details about these ventures will be shared soon.
JetX’s Unstoppable Rise
Also, JetX as SmartSoft’s flagship and pioneer crash game proved that its actually top game not only for SmartSoft but in the whole iGaming industry – its users rose by 80% which is a great number to imagine.
If there’s anyone still unfamiliar with JetX, it was the pioneer crash game developed by SmartSoft. Since its launch, JetX achieved extraordinary success, becoming a favorite among players and partners alike. The game is always evolving with regular updates, as the SmartSoft team constantly works to make it even better. Its innovative gameplay, which challenges players to cash out at just the right moment, captivated audiences worldwide. Breaking records and redefining expectations. The continued rise of JetX signifies the company’s ongoing commitment to offering exciting, innovative, and highly engaging products to its users.
Performance of Top Games
SmartSoft’s portfolio of top games saw incredible engagement, with a great increase in user participation across its leading titles, including Balloon, Mine Island, HelicopterX, PlinkoX, and FootballX. This phenomenal growth demonstrates that the company’s gaming offerings are not just popular but are setting industry benchmarks for user interaction and satisfaction. It’s clear that SmartSoft’s games are playing a key role in redefining the entertainment experience for players worldwide.
Exciting New Games
This year, SmartSoft introduced a total of 18 new games, including three games and slot games, all designed to offer players a unique and immersive experience. Some of the most anticipated releases included:
- 4 Bonuses Bonanza – Plinko Spin
- Mad Slot
- Rodeo X
- Dracula’s Fortune
- Jungle Sisters Deluxe
- Samba da Deusa
These new games have attracted more than 2 million new users, underscoring their appeal and the growing demand for SmartSoft’s innovative approach to gaming. The diverse range of titles further strengthens SmartSoft’s position as a leader in the gaming industry, offering games tailored to every interest.
Partnerships and Sponsorships
SmartSoft strengthened its position in the global market by extending its partnership with the Argentine National Team. This collaboration now includes SmartSoft becoming the Official Crash Game Partner. Sponsoring the Argentine national team and being a member of the World Champions Family is proof of SmartSoft’s commitment. Through these initiatives, company aims to spread the spirit of football, which brings people together and fosters a sense of community. Through this renewal in 2024 with the Argentine Football Association and the Argentine National Team, SmartSoft continued on a journey that combined passion and excellence, where the worlds of business and gaming converged with the magic of Argentine football. The company expressed delight in continuing as the gaming partner in Europe for the Argentine National Team and voiced confidence that this collaboration would drive both the company and its games to new horizons. Additionally, plans were announced for new content and marketing actions featuring the stars of the national team.
Memorable Moments and Extraordinary Partnerships
2024 was a year of remarkable achievements and unforgettable experiences for SmartSoft. The company participated in 8 major industry exhibitions, earning prestigious nominations such as Best Innovator, Best Interactive Experience, and Best Crash Game. Beyond the awards, SmartSoft cemented its reputation for innovation and connection through extraordinary events and partnerships. The Legend Series brought partners face-to-face with football legends like Zanetti, Palacio, and Milito, while an exclusive Champions League experience in London with José Mourinho left lasting impressions. In Lisbon, partners enjoyed the privilege of meeting Javier Mascherano at the SmartSoft booth and engaging in personal conversations during a special dinner. The collaboration with the Argentine national football team reached new heights with an in-depth interview with Lionel Scaloni, offering an insightful glimpse into the team’s journey. Further strengthening its connection to the sports world, SmartSoft proudly partnered with Georgian football legend Shota Arveladze, strengthening its ties to the sports world and bringing people even closer together.
Additionally, the launch of the Partners’ Club during a three-day celebration in Georgia showcased the company’s commitment to fostering collaboration and shared success.
Licensing Achievements
SmartSoft reached several important licensing milestones in 2024, underscoring its commitment to expanding its global operations while adhering to regulatory standards. The company’s Greek license, originally obtained in 2023, became fully operational this year, allowing SmartSoft to expand its reach in the European market. The company also achieved authorizations in Peru and obtained compliance certification in South Africa, further strengthening its position in these growing markets.
Certifications
SmartSoft earned 79 new certifications in 2024, an impressive achievement that reflects the company’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards in the industry. These certifications cover a wide range of areas, reinforcing SmartSoft’s commitment to delivering top-tier products that meet international quality and regulatory standards.
Looking Forward
The year 2024 was one of remarkable growth, innovation, and unforgettable achievements for SmartSoft. As the company continues to build on this momentum, it remains committed to delivering exceptional entertainment experiences, expanding into new markets, and redefining the gaming landscape. SmartSoft is excited about what the future holds and is looking forward to further strengthening its position as an industry leader in the years to come.
As we step into the new year, SmartSoft continues to soar, staying true to its motto: Keep Flying Even Higher.
The post SmartSoft’s 2024 Story – Year of Growth and Success appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
NBA superstar Tristan Thompson is the latest big name to partner with Sportsbet.io, the world’s favorite crypto-first sports betting site, as its newest global ambassador.
Thompson, a Cleveland Cavaliers center and 2016 NBA Championship winner, will bring his star power and passion for cryptocurrency to the Sportsbet.io community for the next two years.
The Canadian basketball legend will be sharing his views on the latest action for Sportsbet.io, where fans will have the opportunity to take part in some exclusive promotions.
Tristan Thompson, Sportsbet.io ambassador, said: “Sportsbet.io brings together my two biggest passions: sports and cryptocurrency. I’ve been following the crypto sector for some time now and have seen how transformative it can be. There’s no better place to combine that with my love of sports than Sportsbet.io.”
Shane Anderson, Director Partnership, Content and Brand, Yolo Entertainment, the operator of Sportsbet.io, added: “We’d like to give a huge Sportsbet.io welcome to Tristan, an elite athlete whose passion for both basketball and cryptocurrency makes him a perfect match for us. We’re thrilled to have him on the team, and we already have some exciting plans in the works. Watch this space.”
Thompson’s crypto credentials are already well established; he’s been a vocal supporter of Bitcoin, and recently celebrated as it reached a new all-time high in price.
He will be providing weekly betting tips on a range of sports, including NFL, MLB, European soccer, tennis, golf, UFC and boxing.
The partnership with Thompson marks another exciting new chapter for Sportsbet.io, which has earned a reputation for both its innovative approach to gaming, and its star-studded line-up of ambassadors, including cricket legend Brett Lee, Kenyan rapper King Kaka and many more.
Sportsbet.io is also an official partner of LALIGA and Newcastle United.
The post NBA star Tristan Thompson signs for Sportsbet.io appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Studio unearths 10,000x win potential with trio of Special Wilds
Independent slots studio Thunderkick has launched Archie O’Loggins and the Enchanted Masks, its first release of 2025 that follows a wild explorer into the jungle on a quest to uncover 10,000x maximum wins.
An archaeologist with a passion for explosives takes centre stage in this 7×7 cluster pays slot, where Avalanche wins leave behind one of four Wilds, including three Special Wilds.
Grenade Wilds select one or two low-paying symbols and upgrade all instances of those on the grid into medium or high-paying icons. Dynamite Wilds destroy all occurrences of one low-paying symbol in the base game or two in the bonus, allowing new symbols to drop onto the reels.
Mask Wilds remain sticky and move to a random adjacent position every time they feature in a winning cluster. When two Mask Wilds are present across the grid, the Wild Field feature is activated, transforming all icons within the highlighted area into Regular Wilds. During the bonus game, any archaeologist symbols within the Wild Field receive a cumulative 1x multiplier, helping unlock the 10,000x maximum win.
Archie O’Loggins and the Enchanted Masks features unique comic-book-style graphics, emphasising Thunderkick’s drive to create engaging slots that fuse high-end visuals with feature-rich gameplay and big win potential.
Mike Collins, Game Product Owner at Thunderkick, said: “We are kicking off 2025 with Archie O’Loggins and the Enchanted Masks, a story-driven title that accompanies a dynamite-crazed archaeologist on his hunt for treasure.
“This game elevates our Avalanche slots collection, incorporating three new Special Wilds that all offer something a little different to keep gameplay fresh and entertaining – especially the Wild Field feature with its unique method of activation.
“We strive to deliver content that adds value to our partners’ platforms, and we are hopeful this release will do just that.”
The post Thunderkick makes explosive start to 2025 in Archie O’Loggins and the Enchanted Masks appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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