Allwyn, the organization poised to assume control of the UK National Lottery, has joined forces with telecommunications leader Vodafone. Their objective is to revolutionize the lottery experience by enhancing its mobile accessibility and modernizing its technological foundation. Envision a shift away from traditional lottery kiosks towards increased digital engagement.
This collaboration also underscores Allwyn’s dedication to empowering local businesses that distribute lottery tickets. Vodafone will even offer digital literacy programs to retailers. Essentially, they aspire to ensure everyone is equipped for this new era of digital lottery participation.
Vodafone’s UK chief, Nick Gliddon, highlighted the significant technological advancements that have occurred, yet the process of purchasing a lottery ticket remains rooted in the past. Allwyn appears to concur, with their UK CEO stressing that this alliance will usher in a much-needed technological overhaul for the National Lottery.
Furthermore, Allwyn has ambitions to operate the lottery in Ireland. More information on this development will be forthcoming.
Allwyn and Camelot fiercely competed for the United Kingdom’s fourth National Lottery permit, a role Camelot had maintained for the preceding three periods. To retain control, Camelot pursued legal avenues to thwart the license transfer and postpone the transition.
Despite their endeavors, Camelot eventually yielded and consented to transfer the UK lottery business to Allwyn. The formal changeover is projected to transpire in February 2024.
Currently, Allwyn has targeted a new objective: a controlling interest in the Irish National Lottery. Reports indicate they have collaborated with Swiss financial powerhouse UBS to secure this acquisition.
At present, the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan (OTPP) possesses 80% of the Irish Lottery through an agreement valid until 2034. Nevertheless, it appears they are amenable to divesting, and Allwyn encounters rivalry from entities such as Scientific Games and Française des Jeux.