iGaming Business – Irish bookmaker Paddy Power has strengthened its presence in the country with the purchase of nine betting shops from independent bookmaker Hacketts. According to the Irish Independent newspaper, the acquisition will increase the number of Paddy Power outlets in the Republic of Ireland to 232. Located in Limerick, Dublin, Clonmel, Templemore and Tullamore, the nine shops will be rebranded under the Paddy Power name. The deal is expected to be completed in early 2014. Prior to Paddy Power’s purchase of the nine stores, Hacketts had a portfolio of more than 50 outlets in Ireland. The announcement comes…