Published on 23rd May 2016 by Becky Mosley

It is quite possibly the most protracted merger in online casino history, as matters surrounding Ladbrokes and Gala Coral seemed to have been dragging on forever. Saying that, it seems that the light at the end of the tunnel can now finally be seen, as the Competition and Market Authority (CMA) has given the merger the green light. However, with the green light has come a selection of terms and conditions that may reduce the power of this new “superbrand”.

Market To Remain Competetive

While the CMA in its professional investigation didn’t find any issues with the financials of the deal, they did raise concerns with regards to the “competition” impact it may have on the industry. As a result, the country’s competition authority has made the recommendation, which in all likelihood is set to be enforced, that 350 and 400 betting shops need to be sold for the market to remain competitive. Ladbrokes has 2,154 shops to its name, while Coral has 1,850 shops, which when together will make the brand the UK’s largest betting shop chain, overtaking William Hill in the process.

Looking For Buyers

Both Ladbrokes and Gala Coral commented before the announcement was officially made that they are currently looking for buyers for stores that are being classed as “excess”. On top of that both brands have stated that they will work closely with the CMA moving forward in order to meet the required criteria as a means to push through the merger.Pooling their power, it seems that the Gala Coral-Ladbrokes merger is set to become a reality, but such will come at a cost to the new “superbrand’s” high street presence.