Latest in the line of global gaming companies reporting on performance to 30 June 2006 is the UK’s Ladbrokes plc. The company’s operating profit from continuing operations was £151.3 million (US$286.3 million), up 12.3% from the previous year. Gross win increased by 12% with World Cup business contributing £17.5 million (US$33.1 million).

During the first half Ladbrokes signed and agreement with Italian betting company Pianeta Scommesse, establishing it as being a government accredited provider of betting shop services in Italy. Ladbrokes’ consultancy in China continues to expand and now includes advising on 250 betting shops in Beijing and 50 in Tianjin. In Viet Nam Ladbrokes is one of three shortlisted companies in the bid to operate the country’s sports lottery. It is also in a consortium with Intralot bidding for the Turkish national lottery, and in a Joint Venture with Cyberview to provide stand-alone sportsbetting facilities to casinos in Russia.

Christopher Bell, Group Chief Executive Officer, commented: “The first half of 2006, our first reporting period as a stand-alone entity, has seen record earnings for Ladbrokes, increasing 12.3% on last year. The results were driven by a good World Cup, further growth in eGaming, a larger Retail estate and improved results in Telephone Betting.” He added, “Moving forward we will continue to exploit our brand and ability to innovate across all channels to ensure our eGaming business continues its growth and our Retail estate is well placed for the growth opportunities resulting from the implementation of the Gambling Act in 2007, the full effects of which will impact in 2008.” (E-08.24.06)

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