Ladbrokes Successful In South African Market

Ladbrokes, UK bookmaker and leading online gambling operator, has released figures indicating the success of their South African operation, despite having launched their South African online operation juts two months ago. Ladbrokes entered the South African market in August, in partnership with Kairo International Group.

The UK gambling operation is the third international bookmaker to enter the SA market and it has enjoyed much success since. Results from the bookmaker indicate that since August, there has been an increase of 50% in month-on-month registered local customers, an increase of 40% in number of bets placed month-on-month and an increase in turnover of 25% through its Ladbrokes South Africa brand (www.ladbrokes.co.za).

Anli Kotzé, Ladbrokes marketing manager reported that the response to online gambling in South Africa has been much better than anticipated. More locals placed bets during the 2011 Rugby World Cup with Ladbrokes South Africa, than had been expected and the uptake was solid.

"We see South Africa as a great opportunity for Ladbrokes to increase its footprint in a fast developing market. We've also adapted our payment model to cater for the needs of the local market where debit and credit cards - which are traditionally needed to make purchases in the online environment - could be lacking," Kotzé said.

"Customers have been quick to take up Ladbrokes' different payment options. With the eGaming experience Ladbrokes has, betting on Ladbrokes.co.za is extremely safe and secure. Payment methods include: bank transfers, credit cards, Ukash vouchers (which can be purchased from Shoprite, Checkers, Pick n Pay and other outlets), and via Moneybookers (e-wallet solution)."

Ladbrokes is positive about the potential of the south African betting market and expect to see an increase in bets around the upcoming cricket season, according to Kotzé. "South Africa's online sports betting market is worth about R660 million and is expected to grow to about R800 million over the next two years, especially in the top local sports such as horse racing, rugby, football, cricket, golf and tennis."

Ladbrokes Offerings Expand to South Africa

Ladbrokes offers odds on all popular UK and international sports. It is licensed by the Government of Gibraltar. The Ladbrokes brand includes an International sportsbook, an online casino, online poker, online bingo and mobile betting. It was awarded its South African gambling licensed in September 2010, thus enabling the launch of the Ladbrokes South Africa site. The London-listed company supports play in multiple languages and accepts more than 15 different currencies, making it accessible to players from all round the world.