It has been one of the longest running stories within the world of online gambling, as the merger between Ladbrokes and Gala Coral has been dominating the headlines for what seems like forever. In months past it seemed that the deal was done, but the intervention of the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) threw a spanner in the works. However, following an intense investigation into the legitimacy of the merger, it looks like a decision is finally set to be reached.
Certain Conditions
While an official announcement has yet to be made, those close to the deal are of the belief that the £2.3 billion deal will be allowed to progress as originally planned. However, it is accepted the deal will come with certain conditions, as issues regarding the size of the combined entity still remain. What this is expected to take the form of is the enforced sale of over 500 betting shops across the UK. Gala Coral and Ladbrokes collectively rank as both the second and third biggest betting shop brands in the United Kingdom, sitting behind William Hill. It is believed that the deal will see them step above their main competitor in size.
Opposition From William Hill
Standing in opposition of the merger is William Hill, who called on the CMA to block the deal from taking place, claiming that it has “monopoly implications”. But, by the looks of things such concerns have clearly fallen on deaf ears, as the deal looks to have been given the green light. Should it now go ahead as many expect, Ladbrokes-Gala Coral may have to reduce its high street presence by around 500 outlets, but even so, it will still become the biggest land-based gambling presence in the United Kingdom.