In a landmark deal that has sent shockwaves throughout the gambling industry, FDJ has successfully completed its tender offer for Kindred Group, acquiring over 90% of the company’s shares. The French gaming giant announced the acquisition on Tuesday, capping off months of negotiations and speculation about the future of one of Europe’s largest online gambling operators.
The deal, valued at over €3 billion, represents a major strategic move for FDJ as it seeks to expand its presence in key European markets and strengthen its position as a global leader in the gaming industry. Kindred Group, which operates well-known brands such as Unibet and 32Red, has long been seen as a desirable acquisition target due to its strong market presence and loyal customer base.
FDJ CEO Stéphane Pallez expressed her excitement about the acquisition, stating, “We are thrilled to finally complete this transaction and welcome the talented team at Kindred Group into the FDJ family. This acquisition not only strengthens our position in key European markets but also allows us to offer a wider range of gaming products and services to our customers.”
The acquisition marks a significant milestone for FDJ, which has been aggressively expanding its presence in the online gaming sector in recent years. The company, which was previously state-owned, was privatized in 2019 and has since made several strategic acquisitions to bolster its position in key markets such as the UK, Italy, and Spain.
The move also highlights the growing trend of consolidation in the gambling industry, as companies seek to scale up and diversify their offerings in the face of increasing competition and regulatory challenges. With this acquisition, FDJ is poised to become a major player in the global gaming market, with a diverse portfolio of products and services that cater to a wide range of customers.
Analysts have praised the deal as a savvy strategic move for FDJ, noting that it allows the company to tap into Kindred Group’s extensive customer base and strong brand recognition. The acquisition is also expected to result in significant cost savings and synergies for both companies, as they combine their resources and expertise to drive growth and innovation in the gaming sector.
While the acquisition has yet to receive regulatory approval, FDJ is confident that the deal will be finalized in the coming months. In the meantime, both companies are working closely together to ensure a smooth transition and integration process for employees and customers.
Overall, the completion of FDJ’s tender offer for Kindred Group represents a major milestone in the company’s expansion strategy and sets the stage for even greater success in the global gaming market. With its strong financial position, diverse product portfolio, and deep industry expertise, FDJ is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for online gaming services and emerge as a dominant player in the years to come.