UKGC has given the go-ahead for Allwyn Entertainment’s acquisition of Camelot UK. [Image: Shutterstock.com]
Ready to continue
The United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC) has given the go-ahead for Allwyn Entertainment’s takeover of Camelot UK Lotteries. Allwyn is set to take over as British National Lottery operator from Camelot in February 2024.
Helping to ensure that the UK National Lottery license transfer process runs smoothly
The company has initially agreed to acquire Camelot UK in November 2022 from the Teachers Pension Board of Ontario. The aim of the acquisition is to help ensure that the transfer of the UK National Lottery license goes smoothly.
Robert Schwatal, CEO of the Allwyn Group, welcomed the UKGC’s decision and looks forward to Camelot being part of the Allwyn organisation. Speaking of some of the benefits of the deal, Schwatal said it will bring together the “collective experience and know-how of two highly experienced lottery operators.”
changing of the guard
As a result, Camelot’s management team and board of directors will undergo major changes The acquisition by Allwyn. Among the departures are Chief Executive Nigel Railton and Chairman Sir Hugh Robertson. Railton has been part of Camelot for 24 years, serving as CEO for five years. He previously held positions as the company’s Chief Financial Officer, Director of Strategy, and Financial Controller.
Railton was one of the drivers for Camelot’s global business. Speaking about leaving Camelot, Railton spoke of his pride in his accomplishments since joining the company. Robertson has served as independent non-executive chairman for nearly five years and is set to be replaced by Sir Keith Mills.
Prepare to move
Neil Brocklehurst, current UK Commercial Director of Camelot, and Chief Financial Officer Claire Swindell will be Co-Executive Directors of the UK Camelot business. Changes in management and board will become effective upon completion of the acquisition.
Allwyn already runs lotteries in many other countries, including Greece, Italy, Austria and the Czech Republic.
Allwyn has been named the recipient of Britain’s fourth-ever National Lottery License in September 2022, ending Camelot’s 28-year reign as a lottery operator. Camelot will continue to operate the National Lottery on its own until the license expiry date.
