Playtech Pushes Into Retail

The online games and systems giant is looking to grow its betting shop presence with the acquisition of Best Gaming Technology, a provider of betting terminal software. Playtech sees the deal opening new doors for its own technology in the UK, Spain and Italy.

Playtech has acquired 90 percent of the shares of Best Gaming Technology, a provider of proprietary software for self-service betting terminals, for an undisclosed sum.

BGT said the acquisition will allow it to further develop its products and systems, which consist principally of a package of technologies for expanding the traditional over-the-counter betting experience with the inclusion of ePOS and till systems for operators as well as an omni-channel web and mobile betting platform.

Playtech is looking to the deal to help it penetrate the UK retail market by integrating its ONE omni-channel with Best’s platform to create a seamless, anywhere-anytime gaming experience across any product, channel and device, all using a single account and wallet.

It also will provide Playtech with greater penetration into the Spanish and Italian markets, the company said.

Best will continue to operate under its own name from its offices in Vienna, Bremen and London. CEO Armin Sageder will retain 10 percent of the company and continue in his position for at least three years. BGT’s upper management have committed to stay for the same period.