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ZEAL achieves double-digit growth in transaction volume and revenue in the first half of 2023

Published

2 years ago

August 10, 2023

Reading Time: 3 minutes

ZEAL Network SE, the leading German online provider of lottery products, strongly increased its billings and revenues as well as the number of new customers in the first half of 2023. In the process, ZEAL took advantage of the high jackpot phases for successful marketing campaigns, which significantly expanded the customer base for further business growth.

“The growth of our transaction volume in the second quarter of 2023 was near record-breaking and a whopping 18.8 percent higher than in the second quarter of 2022 – in this respect, we even recorded the second-best quarter in the company’s history,” said Jonas Mattsson, CFO of ZEAL. He also said that the continuous growth in new customers clearly shows that ZEAL has continued to make smart strategic investments in the first half of 2023 to further expand its market leadership. Mattsson continues, “Strategic growth in the e-commerce environment is becoming increasingly difficult, but with our attractive products and diverse marketing campaigns, we are confident that we will continue to impress in the market.”

Record growth and transaction volumes

The transaction volume of the ZEAL Group increased by 15 percent to 411.7 million euros in the first half of 2023 (2022: 358.3 million euros). At the same time, sales revenue grew by eleven percent to 54.8 million euros (2022: 49.4 million euros). At 12.5 percent, the company’s gross margin was close to the previous year’s figure (2022: 12.8 percent).

In the first six months of the year, ZEAL was able to take advantage of the attractive jackpot phases in January, March and June to acquire new customers and further expand its business volume. In June, for example, the popular Eurojackpot lottery hit the maximum jackpot of 120 million euros in two consecutive draws. During this phase, ZEAL set a new record with a transaction volume of 30.6 million euros in a single week. This development was supported by intensive marketing campaigns such as a cooperation with Kürsat Yildirim, known to the German public as a multiple lottery winner under the nickname “Chico”.

Earnings base strengthened by strong new customer growth

In the first half of 2023, ZEAL acquired 349 thousand new customers, an increase of 20 percent year-on-year (2022: 292 thousand). ZEAL experienced increased acquisition costs per registered new customer (cost per lead, CPL) of 45.09 euros (2022: 37.61 euros), reflecting higher media costs in intensified competition for new customers. As a result, marketing expenses were 44 percent higher than in the previous year at 20.0 million euros (2022: 13.9 million euros). Other operating expenses consequently increased to 31.6 million euros (2022: 24.5 million euros). As a result of higher investments in new customer growth, EBITDA was down year-on-year at 13.8 million euros (2022: 16.4 million euros). EBIT amounted to 9.3 million euros (2022: 12.1 million euros) and net profit for the period to 5.6 million euros (2022: 9.4 million euros). “We pursue a focused marketing strategy and invest disproportionately in high-jackpot phases,” explains Jonas Mattsson. “The short-term decline in earnings at high jackpot phases is a perfectly normal development that will settle down again in the further course of the fiscal year.”

Continuous expansion of the games portfolio

In April, ZEAL received permission from the Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States (GGL) to offer virtual slot machine games, so-called online games, and started offering them in its own web stores in June. Since then, the company has been working on the continuous expansion of its games offering. At the beginning of August, ZEAL added further games to the portfolio of LOTTO24’s web stores and plans to expand the range to up to 200 titles within the first year.

Forecast confirmed

For fiscal year 2023, ZEAL plans to expand its market leadership as an online provider of lottery products and continues to expect a billings volume in the range of 800 million euros to 830 million euros for the Germany segment – assuming an average jackpot development. In addition, ZEAL continues to expect revenues to be between 110 million euros and 120 million euros in fiscal year 2023. For EBITDA, ZEAL expects a range of 30 million to 35 million euros. The company again plans to invest significantly more in new customer acquisition than in the previous year and expects marketing expenses of between 34 million euros and 39 million euros.

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Atlaslive Shortlisted for “Best Sports Provider 2025” at SiGMA Eurasia Awards

Published

15 hours ago

February 7, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Atlaslive, a global leader in iGaming solutions, has been shortlisted for the prestigious “Best Sports Provider 2025” award at the SiGMA Eurasia Awards 2025. This nomination recognizes Atlaslive’s commitment to innovation, technological excellence, and delivering top-tier sportsbook solutions that redefine the industry.

The AIBC Eurasia Awards celebrate pioneering projects and game-changing ideas that shape the future of iGaming. Being named a finalist is a testament to Atlaslive’s continuous drive to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the sports betting sector.

Atlaslive’s exclusive, in-house-developed Sportsbook is a standout in the industry, designed to offer a seamless and highly customizable experience for operators. Built on a foundation of scalability, flexibility, and cutting-edge live technology, the solution enables rapid growth and market adaptability. Key features include:

Seamless API integration for effortless platform connectivity
Advanced customization to meet operator-specific needs
A powerful bonus engine to drive player engagement
Real-time data analytics for strategic decision-making
State-of-the-art risk management ensuring optimized margins
Innovative Bet Builder feature for enhanced user interaction

With these capabilities, Atlaslive empowers operators to stay ahead in an evolving global market, driving engagement, boosting retention, and maximizing growth opportunities.

Lidiia Vakulenko, COO of Atlaslive, expressed her excitement about the recognition: “Being shortlisted for ‘Best Sports Provider 2025’ validates the hard work and dedication of our team in developing one of the most advanced sportsbook solutions in the industry. Our innovation, unique features, and technical excellence continue to set us apart, and we remain committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in sports betting technology.”

Atlaslive continues to innovate, offering operators unparalleled technology and seamless integration to enhance their business success. This recognition by SiGMA Eurasia underscores the company’s mission to revolutionize the iGaming industry with state-of-the-art sportsbook solutions.

About Atlaslive

Atlaslive, formerly known as Atlas-IAC, underwent a rebranding campaign in May 2024. It is a B2B software development company that specializes in creating a multifunctional and automated platform to optimize the workflow of sports betting and casino operators. Key components of the Atlaslive Platform include Sportsbook, Casino, Risk Management and Anti-Fraud Tools, CRM, Bonus Engine, Business Analytics, Payment Systems, and Retail Module. Follow the company on LinkedIn to stay updated with the latest news in iGaming technology.

The post Atlaslive Shortlisted for “Best Sports Provider 2025” at SiGMA Eurasia Awards appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Week 6/2025 slot games releases

Published

15 hours ago

February 7, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Here are this weeks latest slots releases compiled by European Gaming

Tom Horn Gaming brings another exciting slot game to players with Book of Darius, a high-volatility adventure set in the deserts of Persia. This title expands the iGaming software supplier’s strong ‘Book of portfolio, with each game offering a new take on this player-favourite mechanic. Book of Darius delivers well-balanced bonus features, including Free Spins, a Special Expanding Wild symbol, and the Stake Booster, which make up for an engaging gameplay experience with high win potential.

Spinomenal is providing some much needed warmth this season with the release of Majestic Wild Buffalo Winter Wonderland – part of the Wildlife series. Expansive grasslands have been transformed into a winter tundra glistening with snow. While playing this cool slot, players will be joined by wolves, black bears, eagles and mountain cats – all acting as the Medium symbols. During the main game, the majestic Buffalo Wild counts as any symbol apart from double symbols, free spins and bonus.

Play’n GO takes players on a cosmic collision course with Invading Vegas Revenge on Mars, the highly anticipated sequel to Invading Vegas. This intergalactic slot promises high-octane entertainment as Earth’s favourite city collides with Martian mayhem. Invading Vegas Revenge on Mars reimagines the chaos of its predecessor, introducing a Martian twist to Sin City’s neon chaos in the form of the alien’s very own version of Vegas on Mars.

Relax Gaming, the iGaming aggregator and supplier of unique content, has combined fear with fluff as mythical creatures and farmyard favourites go head-to-head in brand-new release Giants and Sheep. This ginormous 5×4 slot can see players net up to a maximum of 10,000x through three different wild features, giant symbols and a lucrative Free Spins bonus. At any time during gameplay, one of three wild features can occur.

Amusnet has released its latest video slot, 40 Extra Crown. The game features a classical yet modern royal theme and offers thrilling gameplay, state-of-the-art graphics and exhilarating sound effects. 40 Extra Crown is based on Amusnet’s all-time favourite Extra Crown, so it will undoubtedly impress all lovers of timeless classics combined with a fresh and glamorous layout.

ELA Games is proud to announce its latest release, It’s Shark Time! 2. This game is a thrilling development to the It’s Shark Time! series, which includes the original and a holiday-themed version. Now, players can enjoy new exciting features and more chances to win. The game follows the familiar 5×3 slot format with 20 paylines, however, the graphics have been enhanced with improvements to the underwater creatures, making a more lively and exciting atmosphere.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, love is in the air, and Booming Games take full responsibility – thanks to the timely release of smokin’ hot slot Burning Love. The popular games provider has been busy searching for the perfect match for players, and this fiery 5×3 game ticks all the boxes. A fresh and exciting twist on the old favourite Burning Classics, this romantic revival retains all its allure despite its mesmerising makeover.

TaDa Gaming is continuing its ‘classic with a twist’ approach to slots in new release Fruity Wheel. With five reels, three rows and 243 ways to win, this innovative take on a classic fruit delivers Lucky 7s, watermelons and oranges all in a row, while the Royals ensure engagement through frequent win potential. The mix of traditional features and innovative elements puts Fruity Wheel in a league of its own. With Diamond Wilds, a Lucky Wheel giving generous Multipliers and Expanding Wilds in the Free Game, players will be entranced from the first spin.

The post Week 6/2025 slot games releases appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Bombay Group Enters a New Era with Kevin McGowen taking the lead as CEO

Published

17 hours ago

February 7, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Bombay Group, renowned for its innovative approach to luxury gaming and hospitality, is set to embark on an exciting new chapter by appointing Kevin McGowen as the new CEO.

“Time has arrived to welcome all suitable discerning players from across the globe to experience our unparalleled gaming offerings,” said Mr McGowen as he sees Bombay Group as a global leader in redefining the gaming experience that combines cutting-edge technology, cashless systems, and private, exclusive environments to reshape the traditional casino industry. “I’m hugely impressed by the Bombay team’s dedication to elevating standards in the high-end gaming industry from a product and compliance perspective. One of my goals for the near future is to engage even broader global experience in the team,” added the new CEO.

The company’s interim CEO, Anita Brinke, has set the stage for Bombay Group’s next phase of growth as the final preparations for the opening of the unique venue are concluded, and the organisation is well-prepared for its ambitious goals. “The ultimate goal of my work of recent years has been to realise the unique vision of a destination that is totally worth a separate journey regardless of how much one has experienced in life. Only a few weeks remain until the opening of The Burman and in combination with the Bombay Club they will complete the redefining of modern high quality entertainment. Now is a good time to pass the baton so that Kevin can give our crown jewel the final shine,” said Brinke assuredly.

Kevin McGowen, a Chief Executive has over 30 years of experience in gaming, hospitality and relationship marketing. Most recently, he served as CEO of Les Ambassadeurs, a prestigious private members’ casino in Mayfair, London. Kevin’s career spans across major global gaming jurisdictions and client feeder markets, including Las Vegas, The Bahamas, London, the Far East, and the Middle East. Kevin’s extensive experience in both land-based and online gaming will play a pivotal role in realising the Group’s ambitious vision.

The Group is also pleased to announce Dajana Tiitsaar as Chief Operating Officer. Dajana’s strong operational background and extensive knowledge of local market dynamics will play a critical role in ensuring seamless daily operations. Dajana joined Bombay Group from Enefit, an Estonian based energy company where she last held the country manager position, she also has over a dozen years of experience in tourism, hospitality and marketing. Her appointment underscores Bombay Group’s commitment to operational efficiency and long-term success.

In August 2024, Bombay Group proudly opened the Bombay Club, alongside world-class restaurant, bars, and lounges in Tallinn. Looking ahead to March 2025, Bombay is set to open its highly anticipated hotel, The Burman, in Tallinn’s historic Old Town. Dating back to 1850, The Burman is among the city’s historic gems. The hotel will open with two additional restaurants, a bakery, and a spa, further enhancing and enriching the character of Tallinn’s historic Hanseatic town. This addition will complete the full buildout of the project, cementing Bombay Group’s commitment of delivering premium world-class experiences in gaming and hospitality.

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