BetFred Explores 600 IPO Maneuver
BetFred, established in 1967 by brothers Fred and Peter Done, has become one of the most well known bookmaking companies in all of Great Britain. On the heels of the UK's ban on advertising from any gambling operation based in Dutch Antilles, which includes BetFred, the company is now exploring the possibility of an IPO (Initial Public Offering).rn
rnBetFred recently employed the expertise of NM Rothschild to look into the maneuver and advise the company as to a £600-million flotation of shares. Though several buyers and equity firms may show interest in a potential buyout of the company, sources close to Fred Done have revealed his intentions are geared more towards IPO rather than an outright sale of the business.rn
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rnBetFred is currently the 4th leading bookmaker in the UK, behind Ladbrokes, William Hill and Coral. Driven by co-founder Fred Done, the company has developed a commanding portfolio of 670 land-based shops, along with an online sportsbook, online casino, online bingo and online poker room. BetFred averages the establishment of 75 new shops per year.rn
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rnAccording to reports, the intentions behind a possible IPO would be to assist the company in it's rapid expansion, hoping to establish more than 1,000 shops within the next 4 to 5 years. BetFred reportedly turns a profit in excess of 1.5 billion/year and employs more than 5,000 workers.rn
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rnJust last week, the DCMS revealed the 'white list' of jurisdictions that will be permitted to advertise gambling in the UK. BetFred's base of operations, Dutch Antilles, was not among them.rn
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