Gibraltar-based Evoke agrees £243m takeover by Bally’s Intralot in major gaming sector deal

Gibraltar-based gaming company Evoke has agreed to a £243 million takeover by Bally's Intralot, the Greek lottery and gaming operator.

Bally's has extensive international operations, including an office in Gibraltar.

The deal follows months of discussions after Evoke, which owns bookmaker William Hill and the 888 online casino brand, launched a strategic review after the UK rise in gambling tax.

Evoke is listed on the London Stock Exchange and owns several well-known gambling brands, including William Hill and 888.

Athens-listed Bally's Intralot and Evoke have agreed to an all-share transaction after months of negotiations.

The deal comes after the UK Government increased gambling duties, a move the industry warned could lead to shop closures and job losses.

The recommended offer values Evoke at 52 pence per share, representing a 138% premium to its closing share price on 9 December 2025. Shareholders will also have the option of taking cash instead of shares.

Bally's Intralot said the market disruption caused by higher taxes presented a significant opportunity for consolidation.

Evoke chairman Mark Summerfield said the deal would deliver long-term value for shareholders.