SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
Bally’s Corporation continues its digital makeover announcing that it has agreed to acquire Manchester-based igaming innovation studio Degree 53, to help build-up its UX, design and technical capabilities.
Founded in 2013 by engineer Andrew Daniels, Degree 53 is a specialist agency in software, UX and app development for igaming and sports betting operators. Degree 53 clients include Betfred, Scientific Games, FDJ Gaming Solutions and Penn National.
The acquisition will see Bally’s significantly enlarge its technical unit, developing the NYSE group’s igaming and sports wagering products servicing North America.
“We are delighted to welcome Degree 53 to the Bally’s family,” remarked Adi Dhandhania, Chief Operating Officer – North America of Bally Interactive.. “As we prepare to launch our Bally Bet 2.0 mobile sportsbook app early next year, we look forward to leveraging the Degree 53 team to develop our mobile sportsbook products and enhance our customers’ overall betting experience.”
Bally’s confirmed that Degree 53’s team of 54 design and technical experts will continue to operate out of its Manchester studio.
Degree 53’s buyout will support Bally’s complex systems integration, in which the company aims to merge its M&A portfolio of US sportsbook tech Monkey Knife Fight, free-to-play games studio SportCaller and leading igaming operator Gamesys Group.
The Manchester studio will further support the product development of Bally’s US media partnership Sinclair Broadcast Group.
“Degree 53 arms us with a unique perspective and skills set that will further advance not only the core Bally Sports product, but also our ambitious plans for innovative and connected experiences,” said Raja B-Sheikh, Senior VP of Sports Products for Bally Interactive
“I am excited to work closely with the team as they contribute to our quest of making Bally’s the number one destination for gaming entertainment.”
Richard Wagstaff, MD of Degree 53, commented that Bally’s acquisition was testament of the firm’s founding principles to provide best-in-class creative and innovative solutions for the online gaming sector.
“We are pleased that Bally’s has recognized the differentiated approach that we bring to the market and to join with them during such an exciting period of the Company’s evolution. This is an exciting time for online gaming and the sports betting industry, and we look forward to immersing ourselves in the diversified projects that Bally’s provides.” Wagstaff stated.
