Betsson targets UK expansion with NetPlay TV £26 million acquisition

Stockholm-listed European sports betting operator Betsson AB continues its aggressive M&A growth strategy in 2017, by confirming the acquisition of London AIM-listed interactive gaming operator NetPlay TV.

Updating the market this morning, Betsson governance detailed that it had acquired all-equity in NetPlay TV for a total consideration of £26.4 million, purchasing all NetPlay assets outright, with a view of increasing its presence within the saturated UK online gambling market.

Yet to be finalised, Betsson governance will offer a ‘9p cash’ incentive per ordinary share to NetPlay investors. UK business sources have reported that main shareholder ‘Directforce Trading’ which holds 27% equity in the company, has accepted Betsson’s offer.

Betsson’s planned acquisition requires 75% acceptance to go through, nevertheless,  the firm’s governance  is confident of clearing a further corporate buyout.

Issuing a short statement Ulrik Bengtsson CEO of Betsson Group stated that his firm was acquiring three established UK betting brands (Jackpot24/7, SuperCasino and Vernons) and furthermore, that NetPlay assets would see further growth and efficiency in scalability once integrated with its Techsson platform. The acquisition sees Betsson group further its multi-brand strategy within regulated European online gambling markets.

“Betsson’s experience of operating successful casino brands will add to NetPlay’s earnings and growth. We have a long-term view on NetPlay and will achieve significant cost synergies and operational improvements over time. Part of Betsson’s acquisition strategy is to add volume to its scalable Techsson platform and to increase the share of regulated revenue,” Bengtsson commented on the acquisition.

Bjarke Larsen, CEO of NetPlay has backed Besson’s approach to investors, commenting on the deal “With the changing market dynamics and as the market continues to consolidate, we believe now is the right time to take advantage of this opportunity to realise value for all of our shareholders.”


Source: SBC News

Leave a Reply