Allwyn is stepping in to rejuvenate the UK National Lottery, aiming for a much-needed update. The modernization process will temporarily disrupt services, as the lottery goes offline starting 11:00pm on August 2nd, for around 36 hours, resuming on August 4th.
Some older terminals may face delays when coming back online.
The planned downtime is necessary for Allwyn to implement its transition strategy. The company committed to modernizing the lottery when it successfully bid for the license. However, initial setbacks delayed the process. Now, Allwyn is ready to move forward with its modernization plans.
On August 4th, approximately 8,000 UK retailers will switch to new Wave terminals. Retailers without new equipment will temporarily run updated software on their current machines.
This update is considered overdue, as the last major update was in 2009.
Jenny Blogg, Allwyn’s Director of Operations, notes that Allwyn will introduce a new look at its 43,500 retail partners, featuring new stands, dispensers and signage. Additionally, Allwyn will add cutting-edge lottery terminals connected through a new Vodafone-powered in-store network.
Blogg says: “While these significant updates will mean short-term disruption for players and our retail partners, they will allow us to deliver on our promise to bring new, exciting games to the National Lottery, a better player experience and our commitment to double returns to Good Causes from £30m to £60m every week by the end of the 10-year license.”
Allwyn also recently completed its acquisition of Athens-based Stoiximan, acquiring the remaining 15.51% shares for US$223.5m, funded by cash resources and liquidity facilities. At the same time, Allwyn has divested casino assets in Australia and Germany, aligning with its online focus, and expects $122.5m from these transactions.
