Allwyn Corporation announced that it has completed 50% of the UK National Lottery retail terminal upgrade program, with over 22,000 new Wave terminals installed nationwide. The new terminals are equipped with high-speed processors, adjustable LCD screens, and wireless scanning capabilities, replacing the old equipment used since 2009. This upgrade is part of Allwyn's modernization plan, which involves an investment of over £400 million, aimed at enhancing player experience and doubling the weekly public welfare returns. The company also recently announced a merger with OPAP to form a €16 billion gambling enterprise and established a digital division to drive transformation.
Project Progress and Installation Scale
Allwyn Corporation announced that it has completed 50% of the UK National Lottery retail terminal upgrade program, with over 22,000 new Wave terminals installed nationwide. The project started in August, with 8,000 installations completed at that time. The company has committed to installing several thousand more by the end of the year, but no final completion deadline has been set.
The terminal upgrade is part of a large-scale overhaul of the National Lottery retail network, including new terminal software and exchange platform updates.
New Terminal Technical Features
The Wave terminals are equipped with high-speed processors to speed up transactions, larger tiltable LCD screens to enhance user experience, and integrated wireless one-dimensional and two-dimensional barcode scanners, as well as paper strip readers that support horizontal and vertical paper feeding.
These technological upgrades aim to improve the operational efficiency of retailers and the convenience of players.
System Platform Migration
The project involves migrating to the Scientific Games' Momentum ecosystem, touted as the largest system migration in the history of the global lottery market. The platform currently supports the operations of 43,500 UK National Lottery retailers.
This technological upgrade lays the foundation for the launch of new games and service optimization.
Investment Scale and Strategic Goals
Allwyn's Operations Director Jenny Blogg stated that the company has invested over £400 million in upgrading the outdated operational and technical systems of the National Lottery. This investment is part of a broader strategy aimed at improving services for players, retail partners, and public welfare projects.
The goals include doubling the weekly public welfare returns from £30 million to £60 million before the license expires.
Operating License and Background
Allwyn was granted a 10-year National Lottery operating license in September 2023, officially taking over operations in February 2024, replacing Camelot, which has been operating since the National Lottery was launched in 1994. The license is valid for 10 years.
The company has committed to significantly increasing its contributions to public welfare projects during its operation period.
Latest Corporate Developments
In early October, Allwyn International reached a merger agreement with OPAP, creating a lottery and gambling company valued at approximately €16 billion. The transaction is expected to be completed in the first half of next year and plans to list on global exchanges such as London or New York.
The company also acquired a majority stake in daily fantasy sports operator PrizePicks, entering the US DFS market.
Business Adjustments and Restructuring
In July, Allwyn International announced the sale of its physical casino assets in Germany and Australia, while acquiring the remaining minority stake in the online operator Stoiximan, targeting Greece and Cyprus.
The company also established the Allwyn Digital division, led by the former CEO of Betfred USA, to drive digital transformation.
Retail Partner Feedback
Blogg stated that the upgrade plan has received positive responses from retail partners. The new terminals not only support improved operational efficiency but also create conditions for the launch of exciting new game plans, ultimately benefiting players and public welfare projects.
The terminal upgrade is an important component of improving the overall ecosystem.
Industry Impact and Significance
This upgrade is seen as an important milestone in the global lottery industry, demonstrating how technological innovation can enhance traditional lottery operations. The scale of the project and the amount of investment have benchmark significance within the industry.
Successful implementation may provide a reference case for the modernization of other national lotteries.
Future Plans and Outlook
As the terminal upgrade program continues to advance, Allwyn will focus on launching new games and enhancing digital experiences. The company is committed to maximizing public welfare returns through technological innovation while ensuring sustainable business development.
Digital transformation and international expansion will be strategic focuses in the future.
