MGA Games has partnered with Gaming Innovation Group (GiG) to support the launch of its Goldenpark brand in the Canadian province of Ontario.
The deal marks the first partnership of its kind for Goldenpark outside the Iberian peninsula. GiG will power the launch of the brand in Ontario, building on an existing relationship with MGA Games in Spain and Portugal.
Goldenpark will utilize GiG technology in Ontario to support its expansion into the market. GiG is already active with five partners in the province. Ontario’s regulated market opened in April 2022.
iGaming Ontario, the subsidiary of regulator Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), says licensed operators have processed CAN$35.6bn (£21.4bn/€24.8bn/US$26.0bn) in wagers since the market launched.
In addition, iGaming Ontario says operators have generated approximately $1.4bn in total gaming revenue from over 1.6 million monthly players.
José Giacomelli, CEO of MGA’s online division, says the launch of Goldenpark in Ontario is one of the brand’s biggest challenges for 2024.
“Ontario represents a vibrant and rapidly growing market, and we believe that together with GiG, Goldenpark will meet its goals. This agreement signifies not just a geographical expansion, but also an evolution in how both companies envision the future, seize opportunities, and tackle challenges.
“As always, our core commitment is to our customers and to delivering top-tier solutions. We are confident that this partnership will allow us to further elevate that standard.”
GiG chief commercial officer Marcel Elfersy added: “The Ontario online market is a significantly strong one for GiG. As a valued existing partner we’re delighted to be able to take Goldenpark into North America for the first time.
“It’s a testament to the strength and flexibility of our offering, and the relationship we’ve built with Goldenpark that we are able to explore and grow new opportunities together.”
Change in leadership at GiG
The deal comes after GiG last month announced the departure of Richard Brown as CEO.
Brown’s exit was confirmed in May, shortly after details of the split were confirmed. He was expected to remain until the end of 2023 but last week it was revealed he has exited.
GiG moved quick to secure a replacement, bringing in Jonas Warrer as acting group CEO. He has served as chief marketing officer at GiG since April of 2021. He was previously managing director of media and general manager.
Warrer takes on the role having agreed to serve as CEO of GiG Media when the business splits next year. Former SBTech CEO, Richard Carter, was last month appointed to lead the Platform and Sportsbook division.
GiG says it expects the proposed split to complete during the first half of next year.