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New Zealand Lottery Bets on Scientific Games To Power Digital Transformation Journey

New Zealand Lottery Bets on Scientific Games To Power Digital Transformation Journey
Posted on April 29, 2024

The New Zealand Lotteries Commission, which operates the country's national lottery, has entered into an agreement with gaming tech provider Scientific Games to overhaul the lottery's offerings. This move comes as the lottery aims to modernize and keep up with changing consumer preferences.

As per the original article published on iGaming News [1], the New Zealand Lotteries Commission signed a 10-year deal with Scientific Games, estimated to be worth NZ$1 billion. Under the agreement, Scientific Games will provide technology and services to help run the lottery's digital products as well as retail offerings.

Specifically, Scientific Games will implement new digital platforms and tools to enhance the lottery's online presence. This includes features like player registration, payment processing, and analytics. The deal also covers supplying lottery terminals to the over 1,200 retail outlets that sell national lottery products across New Zealand.

The New Zealand National Lottery has lagged behind in terms of digital innovation. Partnering with an established player like Scientific Games provides an opportunity to tap into expertise around digital transformations. With consumers shifting online rapidly, having robust digital capacity is crucial for continued relevance and revenues.

Scientific Games already provides similar services to over 20 lotteries globally. Its track record and deep insider knowledge of the lottery vertical should aid the New Zealand lottery's push to digitize. The national lottery is a key source of community funding in areas like sports, arts and community projects. More revenues would mean higher contributions to these important causes.

The lack of details around specific digital products and features in the works makes it difficult to assess the partnership's potential. However, lottery players could likely expect upgrades similar to ones seen in other markets where Scientific Games operates. This includes features like improved mobile apps, customized game offerings, loyalty programs, and more engaging interfaces.

With lottery revenues under pressure globally, operators are searching for technology and innovation to appeal to new generations of players. New Zealand's lottery is no exception. This deal with Scientific Games lays the foundation for the national lottery to leverage digital channels better and stem revenue declines in the coming years.

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