FDJ Acquires Premier Lotteries Ireland
La Française des Jeux (FDJ), a leader in the iGaming industry, has just announced the completion of a pivotal acquisition that positions the company as an international B2C operator in the lottery and online gaming sectors.
FDJ Expands Its Reach
With the 100% stake acquisition of Premier Lotteries Ireland (PLI), the exclusive operator of the Irish National Lottery until 2034, FDJ has opened a new chapter in its growth narrative.
This strategic move comes on the heels of approval from the Irish National Lottery regulator last October, paving the way for FDJ’s expansion plans.
Synergies and Strategic Ambitions
The combination of FDJ’s expertise with PLI’s established presence in Ireland signifies more than just a merger of operations; it represents FDJ’s commitment to becoming a significant player in the global iGaming marketplace.
Stéphane Pallez, President and CEO of FDJ, emphasized the potential of this collaboration: “La Française des Jeux opens a new chapter in its history by realizing its ambition to develop its international presence as a lottery and online games operator.”
Meanwhile, Andrew Algeo, CEO of PLI, shared his enthusiasm for the joint venture’s prospects for enhancing the Irish National Lottery and contributing to FDJ’s international growth.
The Impressive Figures Behind the Deal
In 2022, PLI boasted impressive figures with a gross gaming revenue of €399 million and a turnover of €140 million, maintaining an EBITDA margin on par with FDJ. With over 200 employees and a diverse offering of 40 games across more than 5,300 retail points and online platforms, PLI is a formidable enterprise in the lottery sector.
Notably, the company has demonstrated its commitment to social responsibility by redistributing 65% of its gross gaming revenue—nearly €260 million—to over 4,000 charitable organizations.
Our Comment on the Article
This acquisition marks a significant milestone for FDJ as it strategically positions itself within the international lottery and online gaming scene. The move not only expands FDJ’s operational footprint but also enhances its capability to deliver engaging and responsible gaming experiences to a broader audience.
The synergies mentioned by both companies’ leaders suggest promising advancements for the Irish National Lottery and the community it supports. With a robust strategic plan in the works, the future looks bright for PLI under FDJ’s stewardship, especially with the intended enhancements to the digital player experience and the portfolio of instant games.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, FDJ’s expansion could be a harbinger of more cross-border collaborations and consolidations to come.
