Evoke is the gambling group behind William Hill, 888, and Mr Green. It reported a modest 1% rise in group revenue for the first quarter of the year. Weak performance in the UK and Ireland was offset by gains in international markets, particularly Romania. For the three months ending March 31, group revenue reached £437.2 million ($583.39 million), up from £431.2 million ($575.39 million) a year earlier.
The company cited incoming safer gambling regulations in the United Kingdom as a key factor in the subdued domestic performance. A reduction in betting stakes also contributed to the decline. Revenue from its UK, as well as Ireland business declined 1% year-on-year, with retail and online segments both affected.
Sports betting revenue across the group dropped 8%, driven by a 14% decline in stakes. Total stakes fell to £1.17 billion ($1.56 billion). Down to 1.7 million, the company also reported a significant 8% fall in average monthly active users.
Online sports betting fell 9% to £57 million or $76.06 million in the United Kingdom and Ireland. Meanwhile, gaming revenue rose 3% to £105.5 million or $140.78 million. Overall, the online segment in the region generated £162.5 million or $216.84 million.
With revenue down 6% to £123.1 million or $164.26 million, retail operations in the United Kingdom and Ireland also declined. In retail, sports betting dropped 9%, and gaming dipped 1% to £53.6 million or $1.52 million. Evoke attributed the results to reduced stakes and fewer promotional offers compared to 2024. The ongoing rollout of safer gambling measures also played a role.
CEO Per Widerström expressed optimism for the remainder of the year, in spite of the challenges. He said that while Q1 revenue was below their annual growth target, adjusted EBITDA is significantly higher year-on-year.
Widerström stated that the results reflect the group’s significantly more efficient operating model. He also emphasized their clear focus on creating value through sustainable, profitable growth. The CEO added that with year-to-date figures up an estimate of 4%, revenue growth has accelerated in April.
