Evoke Expands Market Dominance with €10M Acquisition of Winner.ro in Romania
Introduction: In a strategic move to solidify its presence in the rapidly growing Romanian gambling market, Evoke plc has announced the acquisition of the Winner.ro brand from New Gambling Solutions SRL for a substantial €10 million. This acquisition is set to revolutionize Evoke’s market position in Romania, merging Winner.ro with its existing 888.ro operations to create a formidable force in the region. Discover how this deal not only boosts Evoke’s market share but also aligns with its broader M&A strategy focused on high-impact growth opportunities.
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Strategic Expansion into Romania’s Booming Gambling Market
Evoke’s acquisition of Winner.ro is a significant milestone in its strategy to expand its footprint in emerging markets. Romania, with its burgeoning online gambling sector, represents a lucrative opportunity for growth. The country has seen a sharp increase in online gaming activity, driven by favorable regulations and a growing appetite for digital entertainment.
By acquiring Winner.ro, a brand that has made a significant impact since its inception in 2019, Evoke is positioning itself as a major player in Romania. Winner.ro quickly became a household name with its innovative omnichannel approach, boasting over 20,000 retail deposit points across the country. This broad network, coupled with a strong online presence, generated an impressive €19 million in gross gaming revenue in the first half of 2024 alone.
A Strategic Fit with Evoke’s M&A Vision
Evoke’s CEO, Per Widerstrom, emphasized that the acquisition of Winner.ro aligns perfectly with the company’s M&A strategy. This strategy is centered on identifying low-capital, high-impact acquisitions that can rapidly scale Evoke’s market share in key regions.
“We have enjoyed significant success in Romania, which is an exciting growth market,” Widerstrom stated. “This combination will cement a leading position for Evoke.”
The merger of Winner.ro with 888.ro is not just a consolidation of brands; it represents a synergy that will amplify Evoke’s operational efficiencies and product offerings. The newly combined entity will command a robust 7% market share, making it the fourth largest in Romania. This positions Evoke as a strong contender in the competitive landscape, poised to take advantage of the growing demand for online gambling services.
Leadership and Operational Continuity
Continuity is a key aspect of this acquisition. Nicklas Zajdel, the current CEO of Winner.ro, will continue to lead the brand post-acquisition. His leadership has been instrumental in driving the brand’s rapid growth, and his continued presence ensures stability and a seamless transition. Zajdel’s experience and deep understanding of the Romanian market are invaluable assets as Evoke looks to leverage Winner.ro’s strengths.
The combined business will operate on the Newton platform, a highly localized technology and product platform that has proven effective in the Romanian market. This platform integration is expected to enhance the user experience across both brands, offering personalized services and localized content that resonate with Romanian players.
A Bold Future for Evoke in Romania
As the integration process begins, Evoke is optimistic about the future. The acquisition of Winner.ro is not just a tactical expansion but a strategic move that enhances Evoke’s portfolio and market position in Romania. The company’s commitment to delivering exceptional products and customer experiences remains at the forefront of this expansion.
Evoke’s entrance into the Romanian market with such a significant acquisition underscores its long-term commitment to growth in Europe. With a solid foundation in place, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on future opportunities, further cementing its status as a leader in the global gambling industry.
Evoke’s €10 million acquisition of Winner.ro marks a significant step in expanding its market presence in Romania. By merging Winner.ro with 888.ro, Evoke is set to become a dominant player in this rapidly growing market. With the continued leadership of Nicklas Zajdel and a robust platform in place, Evoke is poised for sustained growth and increased market share in the Romanian gambling sector. This acquisition not only strengthens Evoke’s position but also sets the stage for future success in the broader European market.