Evoke Agrees to $326 Million Takeover by Greek Lottery Firm
Evoke, owner of William Hill and 888 betting brands, accepted a $326 million takeover offer, sending shares up 13% in London trading.
Evoke, the London-listed owner of betting brands William Hill and 888, has agreed to a $326 million takeover by a Greek lottery firm, according to reports Friday.
Shares in Evoke rose 13% to 45 pence in Friday morning trading following news that the company's board had accepted the acquisition offer. The Wall Street Journal identified the acquiring company as Bally's Intralot.
The transaction represents the latest consolidation move in the gambling industry, as Evoke operates several prominent betting brands including the well-known William Hill franchise and 888 online gambling platform.
Evoke is listed on the London Stock Exchange, and the positive market reaction suggests investors view the takeover price favorably. The deal, if completed, would bring the British betting operations under Greek ownership.
Further details about the transaction timeline and regulatory approval requirements were not immediately available. The gambling industry has seen increased merger and acquisition activity as companies seek to expand their market presence and operational scale.