Entain will be acquiring esports-focused operator Unikrn, specifically its technology platform, products and team.
Entain, a FTSE 100 company that is one of the world’s largest sport betting and gaming groups operating in the online and retail sector, did not provide further details about the deal, but said the acquisition is set to be completed later this year.
The sports betting company said it intends to use Unikrn’s technology to build a new platform for “skill-based wagering”.
Founded in 2014 as an operator of esports betting, Unikrn has been targeted by Entain as the latter said the former’s technology will help it to become a leading operator in the esports sphere.
“These, combined with our capabilities, analytics, regulatory experience, player protection and scale, provide a unique industry first platform to address this exciting and growing market,” it said.
Entain is on a wider effort to create dominance in the esports market. It has appointed Justin Dellaro as its new head of esports. Mr Dellaro made a name for himself through his work with streaming platform Twitch.
The US market has proven to be more challenging than many operators predicted
The directive applies to any event where gaming devices are showcased, including gaming-related exhibitions and networking events that involve the operation of exempt games
Recent data highlights the growing need for parental vigilance in this area
The iGaming firm recently had to exit the North American market