Sami Kurvinen 
Big Daddy Gaming Granted a UKGC License
Big Daddy Gaming is the latest slot developer to receive a UKGC license, meaning it will soon make…
Bally’s Intralot to acquire William Hill & 888
Evoke, the company that operates major UK brands such as William Hill and 888, has agreed to be acquired by Bally’s Intralot for a reported deal worth £243.1 million.
Why is Evoke selling?
Evoke has reported on its upcoming troubles since the UK government decided that the Remote Gaming Duty would rise from 21 per cent to 40 per cent from April 2026, as it is so heavily focused on the UK market.
These new conditions have put a strain on the company, which is also burdened by heavy debt following the 2022 acquisition of William Hill’s non-US business from Caesars Entertainment.
This new reality has led Evoke to actively seek a buyer to acquire the entire company.
How is the deal structured?
Evoke shareholders will receive shares in Bally’s Intralotand and own about 11.5% of the combined company if the deal is approved by shareholders and regulators. If approved, the deal is expected to close in late 2026 or early 2027.
What does this mean for UK players?
UK gamblers loyal to William Hill and 888 will be able to continue to use their services.
The deal includes a major refinancing package, with lenders providing more than €1 billion in new funding to help manage Evoke’s debt obligations. Intralot expects the merger to deliver substantial savings through improved operations, technology and marketing efficiencies.
For UK players, it’s business as usual, but for the brands William Hill and 888, the deal will mean a more secure short-term future and improved chances of tackling the new, challenging market conditions in the UK.
Who are the buyers, Bally’s Intralot, and why are they acquiring Evoke?
Bally’s Intralot is a major global iGaming operator and leading provider of lottery solutions.
The company was formed in January 2026 when the Greek gaming firm Intralot merged with Bally’s International Interactive. Bally’s Intralot is listed on the Athens Stock Exchange.
Popular UK casino brands operated by Bally’s Intralot include:
- Bally Casino
- Jackpotjoy
- Virgin Games
- Monopoly Casino
Bally’s Intralot is acquiring Evoke to strengthen its dominant position in the European and UK betting and online casino markets, as it still sees significant potential in the legacy brands William Hill and 888.
Bally’s Intralot also determined that the two companies will become one bigger, stronger company and will save money by sharing tools, technology, and workforce, giving them better chances to compete in increasingly competitive regulated markets such as the UK.
