Bally’s Corp. has announced its acquisition of Degree 53, a Manchester, U.K.-based creative agency that specializes in multi-channel website and personalized mobile app and software development for the online gambling and sports industries.
According to the operator, the agency’s “award-winning approach and diversified skill set will advance Bally’s global omnichannel offering, providing key functionality for integrating Bally’s various mobile platforms.” Degree 53’s team of 54 design and technical experts will continue to operate out of its Manchester studio.
“We are delighted to welcome Degree 53 to the Bally’s family,” said Adi Dhandhania, chief operating officer, North America, for Bally Interactive, the operator’s digital division. “As we prepare to launch our Bally Bet 2.0 mobile sportsbook app early next year, we look forward to leveraging the Degree 53 team to develop our mobile sportsbook products and enhance our customers’ overall betting experience.”
Degree 53’s team offers a range of services, including sportsbook and casino mobile app and website development, complex system integration, data feed management, and API development. By delivering customized technology solutions, Degree 53 will enhance Bally’s diversified mobile platform, which includes integration to the Gamesys Group’s player account management and iGaming solution, in addition to supporting key audience engagement initiatives with Monkey Knife Fight and SportCaller. Degree 53 will also support product development as part of Bally’s media partnership with Sinclair Broadcast Group.
“We have ambitious plans for our multi-faceted sports offering as we strive to appeal to new audiences across North America,” said Raja B-Sheikh, senior vice president of sports products for Bally Interactive. “The Degree 53 team arms us with a unique perspective and skill set that will further advance not only the core Bally Sports product, but also our ambitious plans for innovative and connected experiences. I am excited to work closely with the team as they contribute to our quest of making Bally’s the No. 1 destination for gaming entertainment.”
Richard Wagstaff, managing director of Degree 53, said, “Degree 53 was founded in 2013 to provide creative and innovative online and software solutions for the online gaming industry. We are pleased that Bally’s has recognized the differentiated approach that we bring to the market and to join with them during such an exciting period of the company’s evolution. This is an exciting time for online gaming and the sports betting industry, and we look forward to immersing ourselves in the diversified projects that Bally’s provides.”
Degree 53 has worked with some of the largest companies in the betting and gaming industry, including Betfred, Scientific Games, FDJ Gaming Solutions, Penn National and GBG, as well as Gamesys brands Vera&John and Rainbow Riches. Degree 53 holds the remote gambling software license from the U.K. Gambling Commission, which allows the organization to build and adapt gambling software for the U.K. licensed operators. It is also an associate member of the European Lotteries.
