The French National Lottery operator, La Française des Jeux (FDJ), announced the acquisition of Premier Lotteries Ireland (PLI) at a cost of 350 million euros. This shift in ownership marks a historical moment, as Ireland steps away from its traditional role in managing the National Lottery.
In the terms outlined, PLI will retain its current role managing the Irish National Lottery. However, the ownership of the Irish State will persist until 2034. Concurrently, FDJ, which manages the French company, has acquired PLI’s shares.
Stéphane Pallez, the President and CEO of FDJ Group, expressed his contentment over the new acquisition. He remarked, “I am very pleased to welcome Premier Lotteries Ireland, a long-lasting partner of the Euromillions community, within the FDJ Group for our first venture as lottery operator outside France. This transaction is perfectly aligned with our international development strategy and our historical core business. It will enable FDJ to continue to grow while remaining true to its recreational, responsible and redistributive gaming model. We are looking forward to working together, taking the most of all collaboration opportunities.”
Andrew Algeo, Premier Lotteries Ireland’s CEO, acknowledged the positive impacts of FDJ’s support. “FDJ’s backing marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in PLI’s history, which will benefit Ireland’s National Lottery and its many stakeholders,” Algeo stated.
The existing PLI shareholders, including Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, An Post Pension Fund, and An Post, have agreed to sell their respective shares. David McRedmond, An Post CEO and National Lottery Director, considered the agreement beneficial for Ireland and the National Lottery, highlighting the value of FDJ’s industry expertise.
The annual report from the Irish National Lottery showed that PLI achieved sales of €1.05 billion in 2021, their most successful year to date. Vivienne Jupp, Chair of PLI, commented, “My company has moved from strength to strength since winning the licence for the Irish National Lottery. It had delivered for good causes and the community and looks forward to the next chapter of growth, where we will be able to share best practices with FDJ.”
The recent financial report from FDJ, which includes a revenue record for the first half of 2023, indicates that this acquisition will significantly contribute to its economic growth. The reported profit of PLI in 2022 was €140 million, which is expected to increase FDJ Group’s overall growth by over 5%.
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