US-based partnerships fuel growth for 888 in 2021

March 9, 2022
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The year saw 888 Holdings launch its SI Sportsbook in partnership with Sports Illustrated.

2021 was a positive year for 888 Holdings across its many brands; revenue saw a 15% increase, coming in at $980.1m while the company invested heavily into new projects. 

Much of this positive growth can be attributed to 888’s increasing presence in the United States. 

Indeed, 2021 saw the company partner with the esteemed sports magazine, Sports Illustrated to launch the SI Sportsbook. 

This platform, designed to capitalize on both the rapid growth of sports betting in the US and the brand recognition of Sports Illustrated, is currently available in Colorado and is set to launch in four additional states after receiving approvals throughout the year.   

"2021 was a very successful year for 888 as we continued to position the group to become a global leader in online betting and gaming,” said 888 CEO Itai Pazner.  

“It was another record year from a financial perspective, and we have truly transformed the scale of the business over the past two years.

“Alongside the strong organic growth and operational progress, 2021 was a busy year for strategic expansion, including the long-term strategic partnership with Sports Illustrated and launch of SI Sportsbook, the announcement in September of our proposed acquisition of William Hill, and the sale of our bingo business as we look to increase focus on our core B2C strategy.”

2021 also saw 888 gain a license in Ontario, with Canada playing a central role in the company’s 26% expansion in growth markets. Moreover, the operator launched its World Series of Poker offering in Pennsylvania and prepared for launch in Michigan. 

Overall, while much of 888’s success remains abroad, the company is increasing its presence in the US and seeing the results pay dividends. 

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