Microgaming and 888 - When Two Become One

Microgaming, the global leader in online gaming software, is getting up close and personal with 888 Holdings to develop a French poker network.

The venture, dependent on necessary licenses being obtained, will combine Microgaming's world class software with 888 Holdings' technological and marketing expertise. It appears to be a marriage made in heaven.

New Venture in a New Market

Over the coming months the French online casino market is opening up to non-state providers and 888 Holdings is looking to establish itself as one of the leading poker rooms. Gigi Levy, CEO of 888 commented, "This deal marks a turning point in the industry... It provides us with the ideal platform to secure a meaningful market share in France which is set to become one of the key poker markets in Europe. This is an important step in the development of the industry, and marks the start of European regulated companies collaborating in the poker field to increase their competitiveness."

The new partnership will see 888 Holdings and Microgaming establishing a shared poker product that will serve both Microgaming and Dragonfish licensees in France, as well as to 888 Holdings' own B2C poker customers.

A Winning Combination

The joint venture will be beneficial for both parties. Roger Raatgever, CEO, Microgaming comments: "We are delighted to be working with 888 to deliver a poker solution to the French market. We look forward to combining our wealth of experience and knowledge to bring the highest global standards to the local market.

888 and Microgaming are already engaged in discussions with relevant officials and have begun the process of demonstrating their compliance with French regulation in order to gain certification.

Noting the need to understand and comply with local markets requirements Raatgever continued, "We are working hard to ensure quick and seamless integration of our software, and are fully committed to the French market, ensuring that we are fully compliant with all French regulatory standards."

888 Holdings are not the only operator eying the emerging European market; PartyGaming and CyberArts recently signed online poker deals and will be competing with 888 in the new regulated French online casino market.