"We plan to continue the exponential growth we have been experiencing in recent years"

The CEO of Apuesta Total, Gonzalo Pérez, said that 2022 was a year of significant growth for the sports betting brand operating in Peru, both in the regulated in-person and online markets.

In an interview with Yogonet, the also vice-president of the Peruvian Sports Betting Association (APADELA) highlighted the relevant role played by this association during the pandemic, in order to ensure unity between brands that, despite being competitors, found common ground, especially regarding the debate on the regulation of the online sector.

After two years of the pandemic, what is your assessment of the sector's performance in 2022?

I believe that, unlike other industries, the impact of the pandemic was positive for the sports betting industry in the Peruvian market, as there was a push towards digitalization. This served to complement our retail channel, which meant an empowerment of it. As a fact, I can tell you that our deposits on the website grew 30 times if we compare pre-pandemic February 2020 versus February 2022.

What role did APADELA play in that context?

We must remember that Peru suffered one of the toughest lockdowns in the world and, in this context, APADELA was a vital space for the exchange of ideas and interpretations of the rules that were coming out day by day. In addition, it helped to unify the companies, despite being competitors, since what was beneficial for one was beneficial for all.

2022 also marked the return of in-person events around the world. What is your assessment of the trade fairs held this year?

2022 was very positive in terms of in-person events. Personally, I tried to attend all the fairs because, although the virtual events filled in some way the lack of in-person events, in no way can they replace them. This year there were very successful events such as ICE London, Peru Gaming Show, SAGSE, SBC Barcelona, and SBC Latin America, among others. There were also integration events, such as the matches played in Peru and Mexico organized by LMG.

What can we expect from Apuesta Total in 2023? Can you anticipate any launch or agreement?

In 2022 we will open more than 250 stores and we expect to close the year with 800 stores nationwide. By 2023 we will continue on this growth path. On the digital side, we plan to continue with the exponential growth we have been experiencing in recent years and, in the case of sponsorships, we are currently signing with the Volleyball Federation to be the Naming Partner of a sport that is very popular with the local public.

In addition, we have signed with the two most important clubs of the local championship to be on the front of their jerseys for the next 4 years. We will also strengthen our support to the Peruvian National Paralympic Association, among other sports.

What is your year-end message for the sector, how will the industry continue to grow or what changes do you see in store for 2023?

I see growth opportunities for 2023, both locally and internationally. In the case of Peru, there is a lot of expectation due to the regulation that should come into force during the second quarter, which will cause some things to change in the market. But I am sure that the changes will be for the better because sales are likely to be concentrated within the licensed operators.