Bodog Knocks on UK Door

Sports book, online casino, poker room and all-around entertainment company Bodog has applied for license to operate in the UK. Such licenses are required of all online gambling companies that wish to enter the newly regulated market, under the 2005 Gambling Act.

UK License
License to operate in the UK means access to one of the central markets in the world. Since passing the new regulations, the UK has become an example for how to regulate a market. It has also become a valuable market for gambling site operators.

On the other hand, many companies have actually boycotted the UK, mainly for the 15% gambling tax it enforces. Bodog will now have to pass an operator’s test. Its license application is still pending, according to the Gambling Commission.

Bodog International
The move to the UK is another chapter in Bodog’s cross border adventures. Bodog Entertainment is headquartered in Antigua, licensed in Kahnawake among other places, and used to focus on the American market.

Its US operations have faltered since the ban on online gambling passed late in 2006. Currently, Bodog no longer operates in the US, though is said to still take bets from US players.

With the UK license begins Bodog’s European chapter.

Calvin Ayre
One of the most interesting aspects of Bodog is its founder, Calvin Ayre. While some casino operators hide behind monikers, others keep a low profile, and others are in American jails, Mr. Ayre maintains a flamboyant, playboy lifestyle. He believes it is part of his operation’s success, no less.

His business models are Sir Richard Branson, Hugh Hefner and even Paris Hilton, whose branding success he respects.

Apropos of Paris Hilton, Ayre hosts lavish parties for Bodog’s bigger clients, with the famous Bodog Girls, usually found poolside, wearing bikinis.

Ayre’s face can also be found on magazine covers, including Forbes two years ago; he has signed the Wu-Tang Clan to his record label; and he has run a successful business.

At one point in time, prior to the ban, Bodog handled over 7 billion dollars in wagers. According to Ayre, Bodog has passed this mark last year, wholly recovered from the industry-wide shock.

Moving to the UK and expanding to Europe might help his business grow. Expect a party invitation to a nearby address in London sometime soon.