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Exclusive interview with Stuart Godfree, Managing Director and co-founder, mkodo
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Stuart Godfree co-founded mkodo with Sue Yoxall in 2001, taking the opportunity to bring an innovative technology-based service to the rapidly developing gaming market. Recently, Stuart founded mkodo’s Evolve Scheme, a graduate scheme investing in the next generation of talented individuals who want to progress a career in the mobile applications technology field.
You offer apps and digital products to the betting, gaming and lottery sectors, what do you think is the most important thing operators need to consider in terms of their digital experience offering?
Having a strong digital offering is no longer an option but a necessity for all operators and suppliers in the gambling industry. We work with several lotteries and traditionally this has been a product popular with the older generation who would buy and check the outcome of the draw in a retail environment. But nowadays, people are using their mobile phones for everyday tasks and this includes leisure activities such as betting and gaming. People have got used to the convenience of having everything just one click away and expect an easy, effortless user experience. For the lottery industry, this could for example mean a fully transactable experience; an app that offers the functionality to log in, deposit funds, check lottery tickets and withdraw winnings without unnecessary friction.
You work with several National and State lotteries. Would you say they are falling behind in the fast-paced digital development?
Although it can be argued that lotteries were late to the party when it comes to adapting to the online environment, we’re now seeing a sizeable shift in attitudes. For lotteries to benefit from all the opportunities provided by the digital world, they must be bold in embracing new technologies and trends. This is particularly crucial to engage the mobile savvy younger generations. We have seen with our operating partners that with a slick and efficient online or mobile offering, no audience is unattainable. Of course, as with any industry, there is room for improvement and challenges remain. Regulators world-over are tightening up on legislation while Apple is following suit with its own restrictions on the App Store guidelines, troubling digitalisation. But the ambition is finally there, and that’s an important step in the right direction. We recently gained a membership to the World Lottery Association and are partnered with some of the biggest names in the industry such as the Atlantic Lottery Corporation and the British Columbia Lottery Corporation. It’s great to see that implementing an innovative digital strategy is a top priority for the lotteries we work with and operators have proven that they are able to keep up with rapidly changing consumer preferences in an online world.
You have recently worked on a project together with Teesside University, could you tell us a bit about that?
This was part of our “innovate together” competition that we launched to see if we could generate solutions to one of the biggest challenges that lotteries around the world are currently facing; attracting and retaining the younger generation. As mentioned, traditional lotteries are seen to be a preferred game of choice for older generations of 55-64, where 87% of lottery tickets are still bought in retail stores. So, who better to address the challenge of engaging a younger audience than millennials themselves? We asked students at Teesside University to come up with a solution that bridges the gap between traditional lotteries and the younger generations, in line with responsible gambling regulations and charitable beneficiary obligations. We heard four presentations packed with great ideas and well-developed arguments. We’re now developing these innovative ideas with the students and we’re excited to showcase them soon.
Apple has recently started enforcing their guidelines 4.2 and 4.7, could you tell us a bit more about the implications this could have for the betting and gaming industry?
Apple’s restrictions on nativity and real money games have served as a double blow to the industry. For a lot of operators, repacking a HTML website in a native container was standard practice for their mobile applications. But that approach will no longer work under the new guidelines and has the potential to impact the industry massively in terms of app re-development time and cost.
On top of that, the 4.7 restriction has potential to be even more damaging, particularly for operators that have a high level of native functionality but include third-party casino games. As Apple will no longer accept games that have been ‘side-loaded’, as we call it, operators are left with a difficult decision: either abandon their iOS application and move solely to website distribution channels, or work with game developers to embed top titles with the application code. Both options come with pitfalls, however, the full extent of how these restrictions will truly impact the industry is yet to be realised.
What can we expect from mkodo in 2019?
We’ve been helping our clients and partners understand their obligations and responsibilities with the revised Apple Guidelines, as well as developing strategies to minimise the impact amongst operators in the wider betting and gaming industry. We will continue to do this and will advise on what happens beyond the September 3rd deadline. More widely, our business in Canada and North America continues to go from strength to strength and we’re looking forward to making valuable new partnerships in the region.
Source: Latest News on European Gaming Media Network
This is a Syndicated News piece. Photo credits or photo sources can be found on the source article: Exclusive interview with Stuart Godfree, Managing Director and co-founder, mkodo

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James O’Kelly Appointed Head of Corporate Development at SolutionsHub
SolutionsHub is pleased to announce the appointment of James O’Kelly as Head of Corporate Development, a newly established role that underscores the company’s commitment to strategic growth, innovation, and excellence in client service.
Since joining SolutionsHub, James has been instrumental in driving key initiatives across the organization. Over the past 18 months, James has headed high-impact growth intiatives, managed treasury and led sucessful licensing for clients. His contributions have also extended to representing SolutionsHub on the international stage, enhancing the company’s global presence.
In his new role, James will take the lead on a range of high-impact strategic initiatives in close collaboration with the Board of Directors. His primary focus will be on identifying and cultivating key partnerships, as well as spearheading the development of innovative product lines that align with the company’s long-term vision. To fully dedicate his efforts to these forward-looking priorities, James will be transitioning responsibility for day-to-day operations and compliance to other senior members of the leadership team. This shift will enable him to concentrate on shaping the company’s future growth trajectory and ensuring its continued success.
“James has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership and a deep understanding of our business and industry,” said Lee Hills, CEO of SolutionsHub. “His appointment as Head of Corporate Development is a natural evolution that aligns with our long-term strategic goals and further reinforces the strength of our leadership team.”
James will continue to play a pivotal role in advising and supporting clients through increasingly complex regulatory, licensing, and jurisdictional considerations. Leveraging his extensive experience and strong track record of delivering innovative, compliant, and forward-thinking solutions.
The post James O’Kelly Appointed Head of Corporate Development at SolutionsHub appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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Week 19/2025 slot games releases
Here are this weeks latest slots releases compiled by European Gaming
CryptoSlots, a leading cryptocurrency casino, is celebrating its 7th birthday this May with exciting new game launches and player rewards. To mark the occasion, CryptoSlots is unveiling a brand-new slot: Safari Sunsets, taking players on a breathtaking journey through the African savannah at golden hour. With swaying acacia trees, and a sky glowing in sunset hues of orange and purple, the game immerses you in the wild beauty of the grasslands. Majestic animals like zebras, lions, buffalos,and the powerful elephant Scatter symbol bring the reels to life!
PG Soft has unleashed its latest big-hitting title, Knockout Riches. The new addition is a 5-reel (1 to 3 rows in reel 1 and 5, 4 to 20 rows in reels 2, 3 and 4) slot that delivers an action-packed slot experience with grit, determination, and big rewards. Ruby, known as the ‘Flaming Rose’, steps into the ring as a rising star in the boxing world whose fists must do the talking.
Relax Gaming, the iGaming aggregator and supplier of unique content, is challenging players to tame Fang the dragon in its fiery new release, Fang’s Inferno. The dragon with an insatiable appetite for riches returns in this 5×4 slot where big wins can come via Blazin’ Wilds, Flamin’ Respins, Fang’s Bonus Picks, Fiery Free Spins and Fang’s Bonus Picks.
FBMDS is thrilled to announce the launch of its newest slot game of Asian inspiration – “Panda Treasure – Sublime Series”. This is the inaugural title in its ambitious plan to reinvent its slots portfolio with new, rewarding online casino game releases throughout the year, that speak to different players’ profiles and competitive operator’s demands. The release of a new slot game aligns with FBMDS’s 2025 narrative, focusing on market expansion, innovation, and leadership in key iGaming segments.
Spinomenal has released its latest game to join the Wildlife series, Majestic Silverback. Players are welcomed to the untamed, lush jungle for an adventure. Verdant fauna surrounds the 5×3 reel frame, brought to life by an array of jungle animals, including jaguars, parrots, crocodiles, and iconic silverback gorillas.
Push Gaming has launched Olympus Unleashed, a futuristic take on a mythological-themed slot that combines the timeless appeal of classic slots with bold, modern gameplay. Created for players who enjoy the familiar rhythm of traditional titles but crave something fresh, Olympus Unleashed delivers a compelling blend of nostalgia and innovation.
Play’n GO’s latest 6×4 slot, Crabby’s Gold, washes ashore with gold-grabbing mechanics, evolving Wilds and a crustaceous companion who’s got more attitude than treasure maps. Set in a sun-bleached pirate cove where coins glint beneath the waves, Crabby’s Gold brings comic chaos to the high seas. With its curmudgeonly mascot Crabby hoarding multipliers and heckling from the reels, this 4096-ways slot isn’t just another maritime theme – it’s a tidal wave of personality.
Inspired Entertainment, Inc., a leading B2B provider of gaming content, systems, and solutions, is thrilled to announce the release of Piggy Winner™ – a pig-themed descendant of Inspired’s popular omni-channel slot Gold Winner™. This 10-win line slot game is packed with thrilling features including Wild Symbols, Cash Collecting Free Spins, a gamble option and Fortune Spins mode, designed to deliver slick gameplay and endless excitement.
Booming Games turns up the temperature with Inferno Fortune Power Hit, the explosive first title in the brand-new Power Hit Series. Set on a blazing 6×4 grid with 4096 ways to win, Inferno Fortune Power Hit is designed for players who crave nonstop action and high win potential. At the core of the game lies the powerful Power Hit feature, which can be triggered in both the base game and Free Spins.
The post Week 19/2025 slot games releases appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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ELA Games Receives Key Nomination at EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards
The studio is shortlisted for the “Brand of the Year – B2B” category
ELA Games, an innovative game development studio, has been shortlisted for the “Brand of the Year – B2B” category at the upcoming EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards 2025.
The EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards is an event that celebrates key figures and innovative brands within the iGaming industry. The ceremony recognises companies that demonstrate commercial success through game-changing creativity and contributions to the improvement of the industry. It gathers the brightest and most influential minds to reward those who have helped the online gaming sector grow.
ELA Games’ nomination for the “Brand of the Year – B2B” category highlights the company’s efforts in creating a portfolio that balances operator-centric growth with player-friendly gaming experiences. The studio has demonstrated a commitment to helping operators improve player acquisition and retention metrics through data-backed performance, making it a beneficial partner.
Marharyta Yerina, ELA Games’ Managing Director, commented on the nomination, “The ELA Games team is proud to receive a nomination for a significant category at a prestigious event. We’ve made considerable strides in 2025 to develop our portfolio and create games that both help operators grow and provide fun for players. We look forward to networking with all our peers at the ceremony, and congratulations to all nominees!”
The EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards 2025 will take place on June 19, 2025, at The Mermaid, London. The ELA Games team will attend the ceremony for a night of excitement, networking, and celebration.
The post ELA Games Receives Key Nomination at EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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