In a major step for Banijay Gaming, the company has entered into an agreement to acquire JOA’s network of 33 casinos in France, thereby broadening its land-based operations while pursuing its omnichannel strategy for the long term.
Though no financial details have been disclosed, Banijay stated that the acquisition is part of an agreement where funds managed by Blackstone and Kings Park Capital are involved in backing the deal.
Banijay Group CEO François Riahi said the acquisition builds on the company’s expansion in the gaming sector following its purchase of Tipico.
Banijay Group CEO François Riahi said:
The acquisition of JOA is fully relevant with this evolution. As in Germany and Austria, we will become a leader in land-based gaming in another of our core countries: France. We welcome happily the JOA teams in Banijay Group, where they will find a positive entrepreneurial environment to continue their growth and create value. Very happy also to enlarge our set up in France, with assets and people all over the country.
JOA Chairman Laurent Lassiaz said the partnership would help accelerate the company’s digital ambitions while preserving its identity.
JOA Chairman Laurent Lassiaz said:
Banijay’s expertise in technology and digital innovation would help JOA accelerate its omnichannel development, while allowing us to preserve the entrepreneurial spirit and local roots that have always been our strength.
JOA will continue to be managed by Lassiaz and the existing management team under the new structure ensuring continuity for the staff, customers, and local partners in the process.
This acquisition is the second acquisition by Banijay Gaming within a month following its acquisition of Tipico and thus marks the company’s penetration into the mature and regulated gambling markets in Europe through both digital and land-based casino operations.