Vodafone and Allwyn UK have reached an agreement to enhance the technology foundation of the UK National Lottery, with the new licence set to launch in February 2024.The new collaboration aims to bring the National Lottery into the digital age via a mobile-first approach, by supporting retailers in its growth and improving the overall shopping experience.
Transforming Lottery Communications Infrastructure
The joint venture will primarily focus on upgrading the National Lottery’s communication infrastructure to a mobile-first approach. This modernisation of the system will create an easier transition to manage, ultimately expanding retail sales.Additionally, Vodafone and Allwyn UK are to provide digital skills training to retailers across the country, supporting Allwyn’s commitment to high-street retailers throughout its ten-year licensing period.
The Demand for Digital Technology in Local Shops
Research revealed a third of British consumers prefer more digital technology within their local convenience stores, and customers aged 35 and under makeup almost half. Although digital technology is already in use in local shops like websites, social media, and self-service checkouts, however, only a small percentage of customers who took part in the research are aware of mobile apps, loyalty schemes, or online collection ordering services in their local stores. Judging by these results, the need for more digital technology in local shops would enhance the customer experience.Included in the agreement, Vodafone will supply IoT connectivity and broadband to be integrated as a private secure network across all UK retail locations. Additionally, the lottery will be hosted by Vodaphone in its UK data centres providing Allwyn with Wide Area Network (WAN) connectivity to all their offices.
Embracing Digital Transformation for a More Productive Customer Experience
UK Business Director at Vodafone, Nick Gliddon said, “We understand the role that digital technology can play in transforming a business and improving customer experience. Since the lottery began, local shops have used pen and paper at lottery kiosks and, despite the significant technological shifts, not much has changed. This partnership is a significant digital step forward that will help high street retailers keep up with changing consumer patterns, engaging new audiences and supporting Allwyn with reinvigorating the UK National Lottery so that it can continue to raise funds for good causes.”
Supporting Retail Partners through Investment and Equipment
Robert Chvatal, Interim-CEO of Allwyn UK said, “Today’s news concludes the partnership agreement we signed during the competition for the Fourth National Lottery Licence. What we have now, with Vodafone, is a clearly defined scope and plan that will lead to numerous improvements on the current technology offer. In line with this improvement, there will be a number of benefits for retailers. Physical retail is a critically important part of our plan to grow the National Lottery and this is just one of the many things we are committed to doing over the course of the Fourth Licence to better support our retail partners with the investment and equipment they need to grow their own businesses.”