In a significant development for Novomatic, the renowned Austrian gaming giant has successfully acquired the Italian concessionaire HBG. This move reinforces Novomatic’s foothold in Italy, a key European gaming market, marking a substantial step in the company’s international expansion strategy. The completion of this acquisition adds more than 3,000 employees to Novomatic’s global workforce, positioning the company for further growth and influence.
Novomatic’s Decade-and-a-Half Presence in Italy:
Novomatic’s venture into Italy spans 15 years, establishing a solid foundation in the country’s gaming landscape. The acquisition of HBG aligns with Novomatic’s commitment to doubling its market share as a concessionaire in Italy, underscoring the company’s strategic vision for continued success in one of Europe’s pivotal gaming markets.
International Expansion Signal:
Ryszard Presch, Executive Board Member at Novomatic, emphasizes the acquisition as a clear signal of the company’s intent for further international expansion. The move positions Novomatic to strengthen its market presence and consolidate its standing in the competitive European gaming arena. The successful completion of this deal sets the stage for Novomatic to assert its influence in new territories and markets.
Employee Expansion and Global Workforce:
With the addition of HBG to Novomatic’s portfolio, the company’s global workforce now exceeds 25,000 employees. This substantial team, spread across the globe, underscores Novomatic’s position as a major player in the gaming industry. The synergy created by integrating HBG into Novomatic’s operations is poised to contribute to the company’s strategic goals and enhance its overall capabilities.
Successful Closing and Sustainable Growth:
Johannes Gratzl, another Executive Board Member at Novomatic, highlights the successful closing of the HBG acquisition as one of the largest takeover transactions in the company’s history. The completion of this deal lays the foundation for sustainable growth, showcasing Novomatic’s commitment to navigating the evolving gaming landscape and securing its position as a leader in the industry.
CEO’s Perspective:
Markus Büchele, CEO of Novomatic Italia, shares his optimism about the acquisition, particularly noting the auspicious timing during the company’s 15th anniversary in Italy. He underscores the potential for continued success and growth through the partnership with HBG, envisioning a path of mutual prosperity in the Italian gaming market.
Post-Acquisition Strategic Moves:
This acquisition follows closely on the heels of Novomatic’s Greentube brand securing a deal to acquire Present Creative. Operating in the US market, Present Creative specializes in content creation for the iGaming and iLottery sectors. Novomatic aims to capitalize on Present Creative’s success, leveraging the Michigan State Lottery’s recent approval of its products to expand its presence in the rapidly growing US market.
Novomatic’s acquisition of HBG marks a significant chapter in the company’s journey, reinforcing its commitment to international expansion and market leadership. With a strengthened presence in Italy and strategic moves in the US market, Novomatic is poised for sustained growth and influence in the global gaming industry. The successful integration of HBG into Novomatic’s operations sets the stage for an exciting period of strategic initiatives, innovation, and market expansion.