London-based International Game Technology PLC (IGT) dropped its longstanding challenge to the award of the fourth U.K. National Lottery contract to Allwyn Entertainment. The supplier also announced an extension of its deal to supply the core lottery system to the National Lottery.
IGT initially was one of two suppliers to challenge the award, along with Camelot Group, which lost out to Allwyn after operating the lottery for 30 years. Camelot eventually withdrew its challenge, and Allwyn acquired Camelot U.K. Allwyn is set to assume operation of the lottery February 1.
Britain’s High Court ruled last July that IGT did not have legal standing to claim damages against the Gambling Commission, which awarded the contract. IGT appealed, but last week withdrew the appeal.
In a press statement, the Gambling Commission said, “We remain resolute that we have run a fair and robust competition and that our evaluation has been carried out fairly and lawfully in accordance with our statutory duties.
“Our priority is to continue to work to implement our decision for the benefit of participants and good causes. The fourth National Lottery License is due to be granted on February 1, 2024.
“Allwyn has committed to investment in the National Lottery that is expected to deliver growth and innovation across the National Lottery’s products and channels, resulting in increased contributions to good causes, subject to the protection of participants and propriety.”
Meanwhile, IGT announced that it has signed a contract extension to continue to supply the U.K. National Lottery’s core lottery system ahead of the switchover to a new platform, as part of Allwyn’s transformation program for the National Lottery.
“We are pleased to continue to support the operation of the National Lottery, working alongside a range of other suppliers and Allwyn,” said Jay Gendron, IGT’s COO, global lottery.
