The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted significant changes in the operations of industry organizations as they adapt to unprecedented challenges. At SBC’s Digital Summit, a panel moderated by Andrew Gellatly, Vixio’s head of global research, addressed the lottery industry’s outlook in the aftermath of the pandemic. Titled ‘Lottery in Society – Post-Corona positioning’, the discussion featured three executives who exchanged insights on navigating this new landscape.
Marko Stokuca, deputy director at Hrvastska Lutrija, offered a cautiously optimistic perspective on how the pandemic has reshaped their approach. He remarked, “We in Croatia could say that corona gave us some answers especially regarding the potential of sports and games.” He highlighted that online casinos have become the leading online gaming option in Croatia, with a notable increase in new player registrations for Euro Jackpot promotions. “We registered seven times more new players than before,” Stokuca stated. However, he noted that their push into esports has revealed its limited potential in the Croatian market, concluding it cannot currently substitute for traditional sports.
Jens Nielsen, the sportsbook director at Danske Spil, shared a contrasting experience, reporting significant growth in esports engagement during the pandemic. “Before COVID-19, esports was already a popular and growing sport in our sportsbook,” he noted, adding that turnover has doubled each year since their launch in 2014. He cited a surge in activity as more users turned to esports amid reduced sports betting options, despite a general decline in sales.
Nielsen described Danske Spil’s unique situation during the pandemic, as many retail shops remained open due to their location within essential services like supermarkets. He said that while activity levels are low due to a lack of traditional sports betting, they have implemented sanitation protocols and mobile betting options to enhance customer safety. “We look forward to reopening fully,” he expressed, optimistic despite current challenges.
Thanos Rigas, trading director at OPAP, echoed sentiments of hope for a post-COVID industry. He acknowledged that social distancing will shape their operations moving forward but is confident that their shops can adapt while maintaining a social atmosphere. Rigas noted, “We’re still going to be offering table-tennis … but we’re going to see a lot more coming from all providers.” He anticipates increased digital and contactless transactions, expecting a growth in social games like poker as customer habits shift. “I'm sure that we can forge a better future in the times to come,” he concluded.
The SBC Digital Summit runs from April 27 to May 1, 2020, featuring seven conference tracks, a virtual exhibition, and networking opportunities for approximately 10,000 delegates participating from across the globe.
