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Allwyn International AG, which operates the National Lottery in the UK, on Monday said it has agreed a deal to merge with Athens-based OPAP SA to create a gaming entity worth around €16 billion. Lucerne, Switzerland-based Allwyn, which already owns a near-52% controlling stake in Athens-listed OPAP, plans an all-share tie-up with OPAP that will see the combined group renamed Allwyn. In a statement, Allwyn said the deal will create the second largest listed gaming entertainment company globally, with ‘multiple diverse, fast-growing and market-leading positions’ across Europe, the US and other international markets. The partnership between the two goes back to 2013, when KKCG, the controlling shareholder of Allwyn, first invested in OPAP. The combined company will remain listed on the Main Market of the Athens Stock Exchange, while Allwyn intends to pursue an additional listing on another international exchange such as London or in New York following closing. Karel Komarek, founder & chair of Allwyn, said: ‘For investors, this is a unique opportunity to be part of a dynamic company that is shaping the future of entertainment. The combined strength and scale of these multi-billion dollar businesses, massive customer base and Allwyn’s continued investment in technology and content, will accelerate innovation and fuel significant international growth.’ He said the aim is to build the world’s leading global gaming entertainment company. The combined company will re-domicile to Switzerland, where Allwyn has its headquarters, and will be renamed Allwyn. On completion, Allwyn is expected to hold 78.5% of the enlarged firm, and OPAP the remaining 21.5%. Allwyn was awarded a 10-year licence to run the UK National Lottery in 2022, taking charge from Camelot in February 2024. Copyright 2025 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
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