Word on the street is that Allwyn Entertainment, the Czech lottery powerhouse, is engaged in advanced negotiations to acquire its UK counterpart, Camelot UK.
Camelot, presently held by the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, is contemplating the sale of its UK branch to Allwyn. This development follows Allwyn’s successful bid for the UK’s fourth National Lottery permit, outmaneuvering Camelot earlier this year. The transition encountered a hurdle due to legal objections from the departing manager, but Camelot ultimately withdrew its claim.
While many assumed that concluded the matter, Allwyn and OTTP recently disclosed they were in dialogue, indicating a fresh twist. Sky News has indicated that a £100 million agreement (roughly $115.4 million) is under consideration, which would enable Allwyn to assume control of the National Lottery earlier than projected.
Initially, Allwyn was slated to take over the license in February 2024.
Despite Allwyn acknowledging the purchase discussions, no monetary specifics were revealed. They’ve remained rather reticent about the particulars, merely stating that both sides aspire to achieve an arrangement that advantages all stakeholders in the National Lottery, encompassing the charitable organizations it backs, and naturally, the staff of both Camelot and Allwyn UK.
The news organization, Sky, also reported that Camelot would cease legal action if the purchase proceeds.
While the company withdrew its objection to Allwyn’s license victory in September, a distinct complaint against the Gambling Commission remains.