Irish Lottery Operator Acquired by FDJ
Last Updated: Tuesday 1st August 2023, 11:48 am
On July 27, it was announced that Française des Jeux (FDJ) signed an agreement to acquire Premier Lotteries Ireland (PLI) for an enterprise value of €350 million. This means that, until 2034, FDJ will hold exclusive rights to operate the Irish Lottery.
FDJ operates the French National Lottery, as well as France’s largest gaming company. Initially, talks about this deal started during a sales process which was launched in March. The French operator anticipates that the acquisition will improve future performance.
In the press release that FDJ shared with the public, Stéphane Pallez, Chairman and CEO of the FDJ Group, said: “I am proud to welcome Premier Lotteries Ireland, historical partner of the Euromillions community, within the FDJ group, which thus becomes for the first time an operator of a lottery abroad.
“This acquisition is perfectly in line with our international development strategy and our core business. FDJ is thus continuing its development, while remaining faithful to its recreational, responsible and redistributive gaming model. We look forward to working together and taking advantage of all opportunities for mutual enrichment.”
Similarly, Andrew Algeo, Managing Director of Premier Lotteries Ireland, declared: “FDJ's support opens an exciting new chapter in PLI's history, which will benefit the Irish National Lottery and its many stakeholders.
“I am grateful to our OTPP shareholders and An Post for their support, through which the National Lottery has experienced sustained and sustainable growth. The PLI team looks forward to partnering with FDJ for an even better performing Irish National Lottery and contributing to FDJ's international expansion in the lottery industry.”
So does this deal change anything? The Irish Lottery stated that it will continue to be owned by the Irish State for the benefit of Good Causes and regulated by the Regulator of the National Lottery and operated by Premier Lotteries Ireland DAC. This acquisition will not alter the way funding is raised by the National Lottery for Good Causes.
We can’t know for sure whether FDJ will bring anything new game-wise or make changes to the already-existing ones. Nevertheless, any changes need to adhere to a triple-locked process. The first step is being consistent with the provisions of the National Lottery Act, 2013. Then, they would have to keep in mind the terms of PLI’s operating licence. Finally, a regulatory assessment must be carried out and approved by the Regulator of the National Lottery.
No matter the changes, you can still enjoy entering the Irish Lottery as before. If you’re feeling lucky, check out our Bet Online page.
