Allywn named preferred applicant to run National Lottery

The Gambling Commission on Tuesday named Allwyn Entertainment as its preferred applicant to run the National Lottery, replacing Camelot which has held the licence since its inception in 1994.

The Commission said the selection of Allwyn as the preferred applicant follows “a fair, open and robust competition” which received four applications at the final stage.

“Allwyn has committed to investment in the National Lottery that is expected to deliver growth and innovation across the National Lottery’s products and channels, resulting in increased contributions to good causes, subject to the protection of participants and propriety,” the Commission added in a statement.

The National Lottery is one of the world’s largest lotteries and the current – third – licence is due to expire in 2024.

Alongside Allwyn, the other applicants were Sisal Spa, Camelot UK Lotteries Ltd, and The New Lottery Company Ltd. Camelot has been named reserve applicant.

“Our priority was to run a competition that would attract a strong field of candidates. Having received the most applications since 1994, it is clear that we’ve achieved just that,” Andrew Rhodes, the Gambling Commission chief executive, said.

“I am confident that the success of the competition will lead to a highly successful fourth licence – one that maximises returns to good causes, promotes innovation, delivers against our statutory duties, and which ultimately protects the unique status of the National Lottery.”

Since launching in 1994, National Lottery players have collectively raised more than £45 billion for 660,000 good causes across the UK.

Welcoming the decision, Allwyn said: “Our proposal was judged to be the best way of growing returns to good causes by revitalising the National Lottery in a safe and sustainable way.

“The appointment of Allwyn will breathe fresh life into the National Lottery. In Allwyn, the Gambling Commission has selected a strong team with an impressive track record of improving lotteries. We will immediately work to deliver our comprehensive transition plan and look forward to transforming The National Lottery, making it better for everyone.”

Based in Luzern, Switzerland, Allwyn operates lotteries in multiple European countries.