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OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES FOR RETAIL BRANDS IN 2021 – Q&A with Robert Dowling, CCO at Singular

Published

4 years ago

February 24, 2021

George Miller

OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES FOR RETAIL BRANDS IN 2021 - Q&A with Robert Dowling, CCO at Singular

Reading Time: 3 minutes

What are the differences between operating online vs brick-mortar operations (understanding the differences first before discussing what the synergies might be)?

It is a common misconception that having successful brick and mortar operations guarantees online success. These two sectors, although intertwined, are two unique, and very complex ecosystems that require different approaches and technologies for each, even different skill sets. To be successful in both areas, you have to understand the cultural biases, psychological factors, and technology implementation to take advantage of both verticals.

Land-based betshops attract players that enjoy placing a bet with their friends exchanging information prior to placing the bet. This is all part of the pattern of the social gambler. For this type of player, location can be an even bigger factor than the brand itself. However, this does not mean that the social gamer will not go online to place a bet. With the increased use of mobile betting, this has even intensified. Online operators have come up with a number of social features like live chat, live dealers, and options for social sharing of bet slips to recreate the community feeling. In some instances, the engagement between the player and the dealer is reinforced even further via live dealers. For successful online operations, operators must invest in seamless technology that allows their land-based operations to interact and link players to their online portals. For the player, it is essential to experience a seamless transition from the offline to the online space. The seamless technology allows players to start the game at their favorite betshop and continue playing from the comfort of their home.

What challenges operators face when building seamless retail+online operations?

The number one challenge is legacy systems that need to be integrated with modern technology. This also implies that we need people who will understand and be able to manage modern technology. Second, the knowledge gap between what is required and what is actually delivered. The delivery requirements for online operations can be very different from the ones for a retail shop. For example, customer services need to be tailored for the online expectations of the player. We have to keep in mind that we are still an entertainment industry and make sure the brand does not lose that social and fun element to it when it goes online. Moreover, as already mentioned, the player should enjoy an easy transition from offline to online and vice versa with access to their seamless wallet, access to the same games, and betting options. Casinos can take a step further by live-streaming the dealers that are currently present in the physical location.

What are your recommendations for a retail brand that wants to shift towards online operations? What is the best strategy and approach?

We will see an increasing number of operators going online, and there is only one right way to do this is. Build a unique player journey that delivers a seamless experience for the players from start to end. One way to do this is to acquire an online brand that has the experience and licensing requirements for online operations. This is the right choice if time is of the essence. Another option for the operator is to partner with a platform provider that has experience with taking brands online and flexibility to deliver tailored solutions for each operator. In addition to the technology, operators need to choose a team having experience and time to guide them through the process.

Covid has changed the consumer behavior; we see a strong move to online; What does this mean for retail operations in 2021?

In 2020, retail experienced a lot of hardship and evolution caused by the frequent opening and closing of the physical betshops. This has added pressure on high-street stores with traditional retail operations to move online. In my opinion, the focus in 2021 will be on two strategic points. Firstly, strengthening the online market share while also taking advantage of newly-regulated markets. Second, operators must take a step back, review their offering and identify the weak link, the product that might be falling behind the competition and work on innovative features for their customers. For retail brands striving to take their brand online, a technological strategic alliance that can facilitate scaling while still enhancing the retail offering would be the right way forward.

Additionally, in 2021 we have a number of sporting events that create vast opportunities for growth for both established brands and startups. The pandemic and the push towards online has evened out the playing field for experienced operators and newcomers. Although established brands will enjoy higher trust and loyalty when going online, they need to bear in mind that if the user experience is not on par with the competitors, they might lose the advantage based on their brand recognition.

Latest News

Amusnet Launches Golden Coins Link

Published

16 minutes ago

April 30, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: < 1 minute

Amusnet has launched its latest jackpot system – Golden Coins Link, designed to elevate player excitement and enhance operator performance. Seamlessly integrated into five popular slots, this progressive system introduces more frequent jackpot opportunities and dynamic features – an exhilarating gaming experience filled with thrills and the potential for significant rewards.

Golden Coins Link reflects Amusnet’s commitment to delivering high-quality, player-centric solutions that help its global network of partners grow and succeed in a competitive landscape. With its captivating gameplay mechanics and seamless integration, the system is set to provide a fresh layer of excitement across online casino portfolios.

At the heart of Golden Coins Link is the Hold & Spin bonus, where players collect special symbols with the chance to unlock big wins. Filling the grid activates the Multiplier Wheel, offering the opportunity to multiply winnings up to 10x or hit one of the top-tier Major or Grand jackpots. Compared to other jackpot systems, Golden Coins Link stands out with its higher frequency of triggering, delivering a more thrilling and rewarding experience.

Golden Coins Link is currently available in five fan-favourite titles:

• 40 Power Hot Golden Coins Link

• Art of Gold Golden Coins Link

• 40 Bulky Fruits Golden Coins Link

• 100 Bulky Fruits Golden Coins Link

• 40 Extra Crown Golden Coins Link

These titles combine familiar themes with the excitement of the new jackpot system, offering players a fresh take on their favourite games.

With its engaging mechanics and business-driving benefits, Golden Coins Link empowers operators to boost retention, increase playtime and maximise revenue.

The post Amusnet Launches Golden Coins Link appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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IGT Unveils Advanced Product and Solutions Portfolio at G2E Asia 2025

Published

16 minutes ago

April 30, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: 3 minutes

International Game Technology PLC (IGT) announced that the Company will unveil its latest portfolio of solutions for the Asia-Pacific market at G2E Asia 2025 at The Venetian Macao, May 7-9 in stand A801. IGT will display a tailored suite of regionally attuned multi-level progressive link and standalone titles, along with the IGT ADVANTAGE casino management system (CMS). IGT’s innovative G2E Asia 2025 portfolio is designed to deliver enhanced player entertainment, increase customer loyalty, drive performance and meet the needs of the local market.

“Over the past 12 months, IGT has seen clear results in our realigned focus for Asia, and at G2E Asia 2025, we will expand upon this successful strategy with a product portfolio designed to deliver even more depth and entertainment to operators and players. IGT’s global strength, paired with our localized focus, allows us to develop compelling offerings that provide variety across casino floors and will help increase our regional footprint for our electronic gaming machine and systems portfolios,” said Dallas Orchard, IGT Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Gaming APAC.

“With the recent appointment of new talent and partnerships, IGT remains focused on strengthening our commitment to the region by delivering a compelling product portfolio at G2E Asia. In addition to new multi-level progressive links, like the global sensation Tiger and Dragon and the locally developed Ying Fu Wa Fa Fa Fa, which takes our proven Ying Fu Wa to the next level, plus the revolutionary IGT ADVANTAGE CMS, we are set to write a new chapter in Asia by enabling our customers to diversify their gaming floors and drive performance,” said Charles Seo, IGT Senior Director of Commercial Strategy, Asia.

Some key highlights for G2E Asia attendees to discover in IGT’s stand will include:

• Tiger and Dragon Link: An extension of IGT’s global hit Tiger and Dragon, this regionally attuned link powers up performance and gameplay with Cash on Reels and a lock and respin bonus with a unique betting structure that unlocks larger values and more win opportunities. Available on IGT’s PeakSlant49, PeakCurve49 and CrystalCurve cabinets, Tiger and Dragon Link also offers the chance to multiply wins up to 10x and includes the popular multi-pot collection feature for an entertaining gameplay experience.

• Ying Fu Wa Fa Fa Fa Link: This innovative link takes an IGT proven performer to the next level. Building on classic and player-favorite Ying Fu Wa gameplay, this new evolution includes a revolutionary ‘888 Feature’ and the addition of a new progressive jackpot that accumulates rewards throughout gameplay. Available in two game titles, Blessing Fortune and Overflowing Joy, with free games for variety and entertainment, Ying Fu Wa Fa Fa Fa Link is available on IGT’s PeakSlant49, PeakCurve49, PeakSlant32 and PeakDual27 cabinets.

• Rising Rockets Link: This multi-level progressive link is currently boosting player entertainment and performance on casino floors across Asia. Available in two complementary game titles, Emperor and Empress, Rising Rockets Link offers three different lock and respin bonuses, scalable bonuses, multi-denomination options and multiple jackpot opportunities during the bonus features. It is available on the PeakSlant49, PeakCurve49 and CrystalCurve cabinets.

• Money Gong Link: Packed with entertainment and a variety of gameplay experiences, the new Money Gong Link offers an innovative lock and respin bonus feature that includes three different gameplay modifiers, ‘Multiplier’, ‘Vortex Pays’ and ‘Prize Boost,’ for more chances to win. With a unique Money Gong bonus play-off for the chance to win the Money Gong jackpot, this new link is available on IGT’s PeakSlant49 and PeakCurve49 cabinets.

In addition to IGT’s demonstration of the exciting gaming portfolio covering more than 60 individual game titles, the IGT Systems team will demonstrate the differentiating features of IGT ADVANTAGE, including exciting bonusing options for Asia and IGT’s award-winning Cardless Connect and Resort Wallet solutions. Offering a modular design that supports convenience-driving apps, IGT ADVANTAGE drives the player experience forward while helping optimise casino operations. Through IGT’s HTML-based M5 technology, operators can deliver personalised real-time promotions, bonuses and more to the player via the cabinet’s service window.

The post IGT Unveils Advanced Product and Solutions Portfolio at G2E Asia 2025 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Latest News

TaDa Gaming reveals golden prizes in Coin Tree

Published

16 minutes ago

April 30, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: < 1 minute

Classic slot offers a fresh spin on fortune with up to 888x multipliers

Award-winning slot provider TaDa Gaming has unveiled its newest title, where the Chinese God of Wealth rewards lucky players in Coin Tree.

Set against the background of glimmering trees filled with coins, the game centres around the Golden Coin Tree symbol, which appears on the reels and can award random multipliers of up to 888x the bet.

Coin Tree is based around a classic 3×3 slot, with artfully created graphics and a simple gameplay to evoke the feel of classic machines with a modern twist. Low volatility and frequent wins make the game perfect for players who enjoy simple yet engaging action.

Landing any winning combination on the single payline awards a minimum of 8x the bet, ensuring frequent wins and consistently satisfying payouts.

Coin Tree is the latest addition to TaDa Gaming’s growing collection of engaging titles with rewarding features.

Sean Liu, Director of Product Management at TaDa Gaming, said: “Coin Tree embodies all the simplicity and excitement of a traditional slot game.

“We wanted to create a title that is easy to play but still delivers big win potential, and we think players will love the thrill of chasing the 888x multiplier.”

The post TaDa Gaming reveals golden prizes in Coin Tree appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.