Danoptra looks to complete game-changing deal
TALKS have begun over a deal which would see parts of Yorkshire-based amusement machine group Danoptra bought by an Austrian gaming giant.
Gamestec, which provides services for more than 35,000 amusement machines in the UK, is set to be sold as part of the major deal package.
Astra Games, the UK-based subsidiary of Austrian Gaming Industries and part of the Novomatic Group, is in discussions to acquire parts of Yorkshire-based Danoptra Gaming Group.
The assets set to be bought from Danoptra include Gamestec, which is based in Horsforth, Leeds. Gamestec employs around 700 staff, 120 of whom are based at its Yorkshire headquarters.
Other parts of Danoptra involved in the discussions are Bell Fruit Games, Mazooma Interactive Games and RLMS.
Danoptra’s registered headquarters is also in Horsforth. Danoptra was sold to a group of city institutions led by Credit Suisse Group in 2008.
Gamestec operates machines, including fruits and digital quiz machines, for customers in a range of markets, including pubs, bars, bingo halls and casinos.
It has previously won contracts with organisations including Punch Taverns, holiday resort company Center Parcs and cinema chain Cineworld.
Astra described the potential deal as “one of the most signicant” for the gaming industry in recent years.
The deal would not include Danoptra companies OBL or Leisure Connection and would be subject to Office of Fair Trading Approval.
Danoptra’s chairman, Julian Nicholls, said the deal would enhance Danoptra’s strengths and allow for further growth.
Mr Nicholls said: “Having worked together with Astra for some years on digital gaming machines operating alongside our successful analogue games, it is apparent that the strengths of Danoptra can be enhanced through access to the resources, market knowledge and experience of Astra and its position within the Novomatic Group.
“Danoptra companies will be ideally positioned to respond to the exciting opportunities presented by changing marketplace. In short, the combination of the market strengths and skills of a combined Astra and Danoptra represent a step change in capability that represents a clear ‘win-win’ for the companies, their employees and their customers.”
Zane Mersich, managing director of Astra, added: “Astra’s position as Novomatic’s excellence centre in the UK has a strong focus on the continuing evolution of digital based gaming entertainment products and services which will be strengthened by adding further analogue capability.
“It has been like-minded thinking between Danoptra and ourselves that first began the process which has ultimately brought about this development.”
If the deal is successful it is expected to complete by the end of April. Both Astra and Danoptra will continue to operate as independent companies.
