This article discusses the recent acquisition of Premier Lotteries Ireland (PLI) by French group FDJ, which operates the French National Lottery. The €350 million deal signifies a significant shift in the ownership structure of the Irish National Lottery, as PLI, the previous operator, held exclusive rights until 2034 and its shareholders, including OTPP, An Post, and An Post Pension Fund, have sold their stakes.
This sale marks the first time that state involvement in the Irish National Lottery will be eliminated. The acquisition by FDJ brings industry expertise that is expected to benefit the future operation of the Irish lottery. Moreover, it strengthens the ties between Ireland and its nearest European Union neighbor.
The National Lottery experienced a highly successful year in 2021, with €1.05 billion in sales and €304 million distributed to good causes. However, the sale of PLI to FDJ is subject to approval from the Regulator of the National Lottery.
Overall, the acquisition is seen as a positive development that is expected to contribute to the future success of the National Lottery.
Acquisition Details
The acquisition of Premier Lotteries Ireland by FDJ for €350m involves the transfer of all shares held by OTPP, An Post, and An Post Pension Fund, marking a change in ownership structure for the Irish National Lottery operator.
FDJ, the operator of the French National Lottery, has acquired PLI, which holds the exclusive rights to operate the Irish National Lottery until 2034.
The acquisition strengthens ties between Ireland and its nearest EU neighbor, and FDJ’s industry expertise is expected to benefit the future operation of the Irish National Lottery.
Vivienne Jupp, Chair of Premier Lotteries, acknowledges FDJ’s success as an operator, while An Post CEO and National Lottery Director, David McRedmond, highlights the positive outcome of the sale.
The acquisition marks FDJ’s entry into the Irish lottery market.
Impact on Ownership
With the recent acquisition, a change in ownership structure is anticipated for the organization responsible for operating the National Lottery. Previously, Premier Lotteries Ireland (PLI) held exclusive rights to operate the Irish National Lottery until 2034.
However, with the acquisition of PLI by FDJ, the ownership of the National Lottery will now be transferred to the French group. This acquisition marks the first time that there will be no state involvement in the National Lottery, as PLI’s shareholders, including OTPP, An Post, and An Post Pension Fund, have sold their stakes.
Despite the change in ownership, the Irish State will continue to own the National Lottery under a 20-year license. The sale of PLI to FDJ is subject to regulatory approval, which will determine the completion of the acquisition.
Financial Benefits
The financial benefits of the recent acquisition of Premier Lotteries Ireland by a French group are expected to have a significant impact on the operation and funding of the Irish National Lottery.
The National Lottery had sales of €1.05bn in 2021, making it the most successful year to date. With the acquisition, the French group FDJ brings its industry expertise as the operator of the French National Lottery, which is expected to enhance the future operation of the Irish National Lottery.
The sales generated by the National Lottery contribute to funding various charitable initiatives, as €304m was distributed to good causes in 2021. Additionally, €586m was paid out in prizes for Lotto and other games.
The financial benefits from the acquisition will further support these initiatives and the continued success of the National Lottery.
Regulatory Approval
Regulatory approval is necessary to finalize the acquisition of Premier Lotteries Ireland by a French group. The sale of Premier Lotteries Ireland to FDJ is subject to approval from the Regulator of the National Lottery. This approval process ensures compliance with relevant regulations and safeguards.
The acquisition cannot be finalized until regulatory approval is obtained. The decision of the Regulator will determine the completion of the sale. This regulatory oversight is crucial to ensure that the acquisition of Premier Lotteries Ireland by FDJ is conducted in accordance with the necessary legal and operational requirements.
It also serves to protect the interests of all stakeholders involved, including the Irish State, the National Lottery, and the general public. Once regulatory approval is obtained, FDJ will be able to proceed with their plans to strengthen their presence in the Irish lottery market and contribute to the future success of the National Lottery.
