Allwyn’s acquisition of Camelot LS Group signifies a significant shift in the landscape of the UK National Lottery. With Allwyn set to take over the Fourth National Lottery Licence, Camelot’s longstanding tenure as the operator comes to an end. Despite attempts by Camelot to challenge Allwyn’s award of the licence in court, the handover is now imminent. This unexpected turn of events adds another chapter to the Allwyn Camelot saga, as Camelot sought to retain control of the lottery. The purchase of Camelot’s LS Group by Allwyn highlights the latter’s commitment to a smooth transition between licences and the consolidation of expertise from both experienced lottery operators.
A Historic Change in Operator:
Allwyn’s successful bid for the Fourth National Lottery Licence marks the first time in the UK National Lottery’s history, which dates back to 1994, that a different company will take over its operations. Camelot had previously held the lottery licence for three consecutive terms, making Allwyn’s entry a notable shift in the lottery landscape.
Legal Challenges and Resolution:
Following Allwyn’s award of the Fourth Licence in 2022, Camelot contested the decision in UK courts, seeking to prevent the handover from taking place. The legal challenge, aimed at the Gambling Commission’s decision, concluded at the end of the previous year. Despite this hurdle, Allwyn emerged as the successful bidder and proceeded with its plans for the future of the UK National Lottery.
IGT’s Pursuit of Compensation:
Camelot’s technology partner, IGT, continues its pursuit of compensation by suing the Gambling Commission. Claiming that the decision to award the licence to Allwyn had resulted in the loss of “marketable goodwill,” IGT seeks redress for the financial impact it suffered due to the change in operator. This ongoing legal battle adds another layer of complexity to the Allwyn Camelot saga.
Allwyn’s Unexpected Acquisition:
Allwyn’s announcement of its intention to acquire Camelot’s LS Group came as a surprise, considering Camelot’s attempts to regain control of the Fourth National Lottery Licence. The purchase of Camelot’s LS Group, approved by the Gambling Commission earlier this year, sets the stage for a smooth transition from the Third to the Fourth Licence. Allwyn’s CEO, Robert Chvátal, emphasized the pooling of expertise and technical know-how from two experienced lottery operators.
The acquisition of Camelot LS Group by Allwyn signals a significant change in the UK National Lottery’s operations. With Allwyn set to assume the Fourth National Lottery Licence, Camelot’s longstanding tenure comes to an end. Despite legal challenges and ongoing compensation claims by IGT, Allwyn’s acquisition reflects its commitment to a seamless transition and the consolidation of expertise in lottery operations. As the UK National Lottery enters a new era under Allwyn’s stewardship, the dynamics of the lottery landscape are set to undergo a transformative shift.