Massive Profits Thrust bet365 Sport to #1 in the UK

Bet365 Sport has overtaken Ladbrokes and William Hill as the #1 online bookmaker in the United Kingdom. The financial reports released by bet365 reveal that profits were up at £148 million by March 31, 2013.  The runaway success of bet365 trumps the £31 million in losses that it incurred with its stake in Stoke City FC.  To date, bet365 has chalked up in excess of £20 billion a year in bets placed.

From Humble Beginnings to the Throne

Bet365 began in the Stoke City Football Club (FC) parking lot in the year 2000. To date, the company has become a multinational sportsbetting enterprise with casino, bingo, poker, games and other categories readily available to fans. Some 2,500 people are employed by the company, making it the biggest private business in the city of Stoke. Bet365 loyalty to the UK is reflected in the company's decision not to relocate offshore (for lower taxation), and it subsequently paid some £31 million to the Treasury.

A Family Run Affair

Denise Coates - daughter of Stoke City chairman Peter Coates - owns 50% or more of bet365. During 2012, some £15 million was paid out in dividends to shareholders, £7.5 million of which she pocketed along with her father and brother. Between 2008 and 2013 total dividends that have been paid out exceed £130 million - £65 million of which has gone to the Coates family alone

Security in Numbers

Bet365 balance sheet figures reflect some £430 million is available in cash reserves. This money can be used - if necessary - to purchase competitive companies, although this is highly unlikely. The company is more likely to continue developing its local and international markets and expanding with its aggressive marketing campaigns. The company is likely to remain a family-run affair with Ms Coates keeping a close eye on the finances.