UK major gambling operators 888 Holdings and The Rank Group have confirmed the talks over the merger. If the two companies successfully complete their merger, they will form a £5 billion gambling capital with land-based and online operations across numerous regulated markets.
According to Casino News Daily, the two companies are also showing interest in fellow gambling operator William Hill. The Rank Group owns a chain of bingo halls in the UK, as well as the largest chain of land-based casinos across the UK. 888 Holdings is one of the leading online casinos. William Hill still maintains its territory of being the owner of UK’s largest chain of High Street betting shops. The operator is likely to maintain its position until the Ladbrokes and Coral merger is completed.
Commenting on the merger deal, both operators said in a joint statement that their merger is a logical move and it will lead to;
- Consolidation of their complimentary land-based and online casinos
- Generate revenue
- Cost synergies
888 Holdings and The Rank Group Approach William Hill
The two operators also stated that they haven’t officially approached William Hill for a bid. However, they have informed the board members that they are interested in buying the company.
According to industry experts, William Hill might show interest in the proposed deal, although 888 Holdings and The Rank Group said in their joint statement that the official bid might not be made. If made, it might result in a deal being incomplete.
