IGT strikes PlayRGS supply deal with Finland’s Veikkaus
Finnish gambling monopoly Veikkaus will significantly expand the range of content it offers online through a new supply deal with International Game Technology (IGT).
The agreement, which runs for an initial term of four years, will see IGT’s PlayDigital division supply the operator with its PlayRGS remote game server.
As well as covering installation, maintenance and support services for PlayRGS, the agreement also provides Veikkaus with access access to IGT’s complete library of PlayCasino online slot, table games, video poker and instant win titles, and marketing support.
“Veikkaus is committed to engaging our players with a variety of highly entertaining games across all channels,” the operator’s chief executive Olli Sarekoski (pictured) said. “Through IGT's PlayRGS solution, we can seamlessly provide best-in-class digital content, including IGT's top-performing PlayCasino digital game titles.
“This agreement gives the lottery enhanced flexibility to offer our players the games they want and ensures the sustainability and ongoing success of our digital program.”
Declan Harkin, senior vice president and chief operating officer for IGT’s International division, described Veikkaus as “one of the world's most innovative and sophisticated lotteries”.
“[The] introduction of our powerful PlayRGS remote game server and player-tested PlayCasino digital content will significantly enhance player engagement,” Harkin explained.
“IGT's extensive experience in the government-regulated digital gaming market will ensure the continued growth of Veikkaus' digital program, generating funds for good causes to benefit the people of Finland.”
The deal further strengthens IGT’s presence in the Nordic region, where it also supplies the PlayRGS solution to World Lottery Association members Danske Spil in Denmark and Norway’s Norsk Tipping.
It will also aid Veikkaus’ efforts to enhance its online offering, which it highlighted as a priority following the publication of its full-year results for 2018. At the time Sarekoski said that an improved igaming product suite would help the operator fend off competition from offshore rivals.
In the first quarter of the year Veikkaus reported a 3.9% decline in turnover to €774.0m, following declines in player activity across casino and sports betting.