iGaming Business – Online gaming operator 888 Holdings has highlighted the performances of its poker and casino divisions as key factors in a 7% year-on-year rise in revenue for the first half of 2013.
The company’s sales increased to $200.1 million (€149.5 million) in the six months until June 30 – a significant rise from the $186.4 million recorded for the same period in the previous year.
Poker and casino activity were the main driving forces behind the increase in business-to-consumer revenue, which grew by 8% to $177 million. The casino business contributed $94.1 million, a 13% rise on the previous year, while poker generated $46.9 million – also a 13% rise on the 2012 figure.
Elsewhere, adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation was up by 7% to $38.6 million, while the margin maintained at 19.3%.
888 was also able to identify mobile as the fastest growing channel across all of its products, with the medium representing 17% of all UK revenue. The firm has also experienced growth in Spain and Italy, where it has highlighted further opportunities.
“Record revenue for the first half has been driven by the continued strength of our core casino and poker products, and our ability to maximise revenue through our exceptional platforms and best-in-class marketing systems,” 888 chief executive officer Brian Mattingley said.
“We are making good progress in new markets with tremendous success in Spain and Italy where we see further opportunities for growth.
“These experiences have given us further confidence in our ability to capitalise on the exciting US opportunity which continues to develop and we believe our strategy and partnerships ensure that we are well positioned to maximise market share as that market becomes regulated.”
As a result of the half-year figures, the 888 board of directors have approved the payment of an interim dividend of 3.0 cents per share to holders of 888’s ordinary shares.
