Betsson Group celebrates its 60th anniversary in the industry

Online gaming giant Betsson Group announced Friday it is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. Founded in 1963, the group has come a long way in the past six decades “and is now acknowledged as one of the leading names in the industry," the business noted in a press statement reflecting on its history.

From its beginnings with just a few roulette tables in restaurants in Sweden, Betsson Group now has operations in over 14 countries and a presence in over 20 markets around the world.

But Betsson claims its success “isn't just due to its expansion – it reflects the dedication and passion of its talented people, thanks to which the company has always been at the forefront of innovation, constantly striving to offer the best possible gaming experiences to its customers.”

In a press release, as Betsson Group reflects on its 60 years in the industry, it expressed that it takes pride in the achievements and milestones it has reached. In recognition of its "hard work and dedication to excellence," Betsson Group has won numerous awards and accolades. In 2022 alone, the company won 28 awards, including "Sportsbook Operator of the Year" and "Casino Operator of the Year".

Betsson is also known for its commitment to responsible gaming, the business claims. "The company was one of the first operators to set up a responsible gambling team within its operations department and has implemented numerous measures to ensure that its customers can enjoy their gaming experience in a safe and responsible manner," the company stated. These measures include setting up limits, offering self-exclusion options, and providing players with information and resources to help them manage their gaming habits.

As it approaches its diamond anniversary, Betsson Group assures it is in a good position to continue growing and expanding in the years to come "with a strong focus on innovation and a commitment to customer satisfaction."

“In conclusion, Betsson Group's 60th anniversary is a testament to the company's enduring success and commitment to excellence," the company said in a statement. "As it looks ahead to the next 60 years, Betsson Group remains dedicated to providing the best possible gaming experience both to its customers through its several brands, but also to other operators through its B2B operations.

The announcement comes as Betsson changes in strategy in some of its markets. Earlier this month, the company closed down its online brand Casino Winner. The site previously targeted the Dutch market but has been blocking customers in the Netherlands since the launch of the country’s regulated online gambling market, which went live in October 2021. 

The site was operated through Betsson's MGA-licensed Corona Ltd, which controls both the Casino Winner and Loyal Casino businesses. Betsson bought the two sites – which were previously known as Kroon Casino and Oranje Casino, respectively – from three entrepreneurs for €130 million ($136.8 million) in 2014. Betsson expected the re-regulation of gaming in the Netherlands at that time, but it took seven years for the new regime to become effective. 

While Casino Winner also served other markets, Betsson moved to close the brand in order to fulfill the requirements for it to be able to enter the newly regulated Dutch market. While the Dutch regulator, known as KSA, has yet to greenlight a license for Betsson, the operator expected that the closure of Casino Winner may take it closer to approval.