Ladbrokes Poker taking a shot in the dark in Italy?

Ladbrokes Poker has decided to attempt to conquer the online Italian poker market in 2010.  The story reported in the Financial Times states that the online poker and sports betting company has decided to have a crack at the poker market even though they have previously failed in their sports betting high street endeavours in Italy.  Italy is currently one of the more approachable European countries for UK gaming companies to attempt to enter, with a far more receptive ear to industry proposals. The Chief Executive of Ladbrokes Poker Chris Bell, is quoted in the Financial Times as saying that the company is keen to have a more international presence in terms of online gambling and the Italian market is one of the first steps to making this aim a reality.

Ladbrokes Poker hot on the heels of Party Gaming and Virgin

Ladbrokes are intending to launch online poker in Italy as well as casino games and online bingo.  It is not known how Ladbrokes Poker will fare in Italy as unfortunately they are playing catch up with the likes of Party Gaming and Virgin, who already have a significant presence in the Italian online poker market.  It has to be said that because of the current recession that entering new European markets may not be the most logical step, and focusing on strengthening Ladbrokes position in the UK market or by purchasing into the established market as Bwin have done with their acquisition of Gioco Digitale might be the most strategic move in the long run.

Tougher climate proves challenging

Ladbrokes Managing Director of eGaming, Ed Andrewes recently sat on the CEO panel of the EGR Live Event in London.  During the conference Mr Andrewes stated that Ladbrokes along with the rest of the industry were finding trading conditions very tough in the current economic climate.  Mr Andrewes said that because of the previous benefits of continued growth the much tougher environment has proved challenging for the online gaming industry as a whole.  The decision therefore for Ladbrokes to enter a new market which has previously given problems is possibly very brave.

www.poker.ladbrokes.com