Playtech confirms Veikkaus live casino deal in Finland

Playtech has confirmed a new strategic live casino partnership with Finnish state-owned monopoly operator Veikkaus.

As previously reported by Gaming Intelligence, Playtech won a competitive tender last year and has agreed an initial six-year contract, which can be extended.

The new deal builds on their existing relationship, which encompasses online casino, online poker, retail VLT machines and a casino management system.

“We are delighted to collaborate with Playtech as our partner for Live casino games, following a comprehensive public procurement process,” said Veikkaus vice president of iCasino Riikka Seppänen. “This strategic framework agreement marks an important milestone for Veikkaus as we expand our product portfolio to include Live casino games for the first time.

“We have been and continue to work diligently alongside Finnish authorities and regulators to ensure a robust regulatory framework is in place. With Playtech's network of Live games and their support in setting up our dedicated Veikkaus-branded studio, we are excited to offer our Finnish players an immersive and authentic gaming experience. This partnership with Playtech reflects our commitment to providing top-quality entertainment to our valued customers.”

Veikkaus will offer Playtech's network Live games to its players, as well as exclusive games from a new Veikkaus-branded studio, which Playtech will establish and operate in one of Playtech’s main studio facilities.

The joint work around studio design is already well underway, where Playtech is working closely with Veikkaus’ product, design and brand marketing teams.

The new contemporary-designed Veikkaus studio will feature Finnish-speaking dealers, initially overseeing a range of blackjack and roulette tables.

“We are thrilled to be selected as Veikkaus' partner for Live casino games, and this long-term partnership is a testament to the strength of our Live product and further solidifies our position as a leading supplier in the Nordic region,” said Playtech commercial director Fredrik Sylvander. “We are excited to support Veikkaus in their first launch of Live casino games, providing Finnish players with an exceptional gaming experience.

“Together, we will leverage our expertise and market knowledge to deliver a tailored Live offering that meets the needs of the Finnish market and exceeds the expectations of Veikkaus' customers.”

Shares in Playtech plc (LSE:PTEC) were trading marginally lower by 0.35 per cent at 461.40 pence per share in London earlier Thursday.