Issue N10, 2010
March 10, 2010
Ladbrokes Signs on Boyzone Singer to Serve as Ambassador
Ladbrokes Poker, one of the leading online poker rooms in the industry, has announced that it has added a famous name to represent the site. The famous Irish Boyzone group singer, Shane Lynch, has been signed on for a year to act as Ladbrokes Poker’s ambassador and to spread the word that poker is a game that anybody can enjoy.
“Shane is the perfect ambassador for Ladbrokespoker.com – he’s a great guy and totally down to earth,” enthused Kate McLennan, the Head of Ladbrokes Poker. “We want to show that poker is for everyone. We’re not like other sites that spend huge amounts on poker professionals that their players will never be able to relate to. Ladbrokespoker.com is the site that’s friendly, accessible, where all ages and abilities come together. Poker takes a moment to learn and a lifetime to master. With Shane, we want to show that anyone can give it a go and have fun.”
Lynch has been linked to Ladbrokes in the past as the gambling group has also backed his love of the motorsport known as Drifting.
“I’d always been a bit intimidated by the poker scene; I’d seen it on TV and found the whole thing a bit baffling,” said Lynch. “But having spent time with the Ladbrokes players at a few events last year, I’ve seen that you don’t need to be an expert to give it a go. I’m really looking forward to getting into this poker journey, learning more and having some great fun along the way.”
Online Gambling Counters US Land Casino Growth
Research has shown that US land casinos have reported yet another loss in revenue. This has been put down to two main factors – tough economic conditions and the growth of online gambling which is seen as serious competition for these casinos across the states. Statistics show that in the 12 states where gambling is legal, gaming revenues dropped by 5.7% in 2009 – to a total of $30.7 billion.
But while the recession definitely has something to do with gamblers not having the funds to spend as they did in previous years, analysts believe that the rise in popularity of online gambling definitely has something to do with it.
“This shift has been gradual, which suggests that this is not a result of the recession,” said Billy Hulkower, an analyst for the Mintel group that studied the statistics. “Casinos may be losing audience to the increasingly compelling entertainment offerings in the home; such as HDTV (high definition TV), high-end video game systems and the Internet, including Internet gambling.”
Harrah’s Launches New Bingo Site in UK
In an attempt to make further inroads in the lucrative UK bingo market, Harrah’s Interactive Entertainment has launched a brand new online bingo room with a Las Vegas flavor. The site will be accessible to UK players only and will feature great games and prizes. Players will be able to enjoy bingo games and casino games at Caesar’s Bingo and stand in line to win prizes such as trips to Vegas and prestigious English casinos.
The site will launch on the Gamesys platform which should bring a high standard of gaming to bingo fans.
The Chief Executive Officer of Gamesys, Noel Hayden commented on the deal and said: “Harrahs and Gamesys has to be a dream relationship. Caesars is one of the most prestigious and famous brands in Las Vegas and Gamesys is well known for its innovative technology and games. We're understandably extremely happy to be launching one of the UK's most exciting bingo sites.”
The Chief Executive Officer of Harrah’s Interactive, ex Party Gaming boss Mitch Garber said: “We're thrilled to bring one of the worlds' most renowned gaming brands to UK residents with Caesars Bingo Online," said Mitch Garber. “Caesars Bingo.com will bring players the fun and excitement found in our casinos in addition to offering exclusive Caesars Palace Las Vegas prize packages.”
Rival Releases New Slot Game
Rival Gaming, well know for its regular release of slot games, has announced the launch of a brand new title to its quality arsenal. Candy Cottage will definitely be a big hit in the industry for a number of reasons. Firstly, the game has mouth watering graphics such as chocolates, candy and picnic food. In addition, the theme of the traditional Hansel and Gretel tale will appeal to players across all age groups. The features of this five reel, 20 pay line game, however, are second to none and the game boasts a free spins bonus round where 10 free spins can be won. The graphics and animations are outstanding and players will love the extra touches that have gone into creating a game that is as entertaining as it is rewarding.