"This year is one of fantastic growth for Patagonia Entertainment"

Patagonia confirmed AGS' acquisition in May. How would you describe the integration of both companies? When is the completion of the entire process due?

Patagonia Entertainment was already a minority shareholder in AutoGameSYS and as one of the leading technology developers, we constantly evaluate the industry and competitors in the space. This year is one of fantastic growth for the business and with that, our iGaming presence has followed suit. It all meant that operators from across the globe were getting in touch to find out more about our iGaming solution. These conversations often came back to the question of whether there was room to offer a true omni-channel offering.

These requests kept coming and we came to the decision that it was the right move for the business to acquire AutoGameSYS. Due diligence was carried out and it was the AutoGameSYS route that made most sense.

Acquiring AutoGameSYS met all key performance indicators and the commercial details as it was a flexible platform capable of adapting to a wide range of markets and requirements. The AutoGameSYS platform was developed by a top technology team to create a solution which gives operators the tools required to enhance their business.

Today, the iGaming industry has a huge selection of solutions, which means the decision to partner with a technology platform provider greatly rests on the ability to work together to grow each other’s business. Cost shouldn’t be the only element to consider. It’s about coupling similar interests to perform in line with your customers’ operational ambitions. In this regard, we see operators as Business partners, not clients.

Acquisition deals always involve multiple processes which can take a bit of time once the agreement has been signed. These mostly revolve around the legalities and these take a while to ensure everything is in order.

Commercially and technically everything is ready and we’re already working with clients, who are interested in utilizing our platform for land-based and online operations.

After this transaction, Patagonia unveiled its brand new image. What was the reason for this change?

Patagonia Entertainment’s philosophy centers on innovation. Acquiring AutoGameSYS put the finishing touches on our strategy mission and gave us the push to refresh our brand image.

We wanted our brand to reflect the recent development of our business to show the position of strength we’re now in thanks to the acquisition. Our service is now truly omni-channel and our logo wanted to capture this. Patagonia’s essence hasn’t changed, so we only needed to renew certain elements of the imagery. These will be reflected across our entire company and incorporated into the new website, which is launching soon. Watch this space!

Are you going to keep the AGS brand?

No, we will be bringing everything under the Patagonia Entertainment to make it clear of our omni-channel solution.

Patagonia acquired AGS gaming platform in an EUR 20 M transaction. What other investments have you got planned?

Our efforts are now focused on innovating, innovating and…. innovating. The exigencies of the iGaming market are changing every day and the industry is wanting more constantly.

One area of focus is on the certification process for regulated markets. We recently went through Colombia’s certification process with our partnership Wplay.co and we welcome further regulation to help our growth through the right channels.

Another area we’re investing in is traveling the world to attend the major iGaming events. These are perfect to meet new and existing clients face-to-face in a worldwide industry which can make it tricky.

Patagonia will also be investing considerable resource into launching in territories in areas which include Asia, Africa and Europe.

Are you seeking any new incorporation to or change in the company staff?

Growth and expansion rely on recruitment to ensure we make the most of the opportunities. Our team has been growing constantly and will continue to do so as we expand the business. There are current designs to open a European office to help service our endeavors there.

Patagonia signed a content agreement with Wplay.co in April. Now with AGS, you are able to close deals as technological partners as well. Are you in talks to establish a new business alliance in Colombia?

We are very happy to have our first licensed operator in Colombia as a partner, we are soon going live with our games on their platform. Today, we are in open conversations with a number of operators in the market who are keen to learn more about how are service can help them grow.

Latam is thriving as an iGaming market and many of the countries operating here are considering the benefits of regulation following on from Colombia. Regulation enables businesses to understand what is required to launch iGaming services and ensure all is done efficiently. The best conditions arise from knowing where everyone stands by ensuring the framework exists. At Patagonia Entertainment, we are completely supportive of regulators and regulations.

There are two new events in the Latin American online gambling scenario: the "International Sports Betting and Online Gaming Forum" by Peru Gaming Show organizers; and GOL Expo Peru by FADJA organizers. Are you going to exhibit in any of them? The company has an ongoing agreement with DoradoBet, how do you assess this market? Is there any room for growth in Peru with the regulation of online gambling?

We are heading to IGB Live this week in Amsterdam and will be in attendance between July 17 to July 20. There are ongoing conversations about visiting GOL Expo Peru and the International Sports Betting Forum, but we are not able to confirm just yet.

We do have an agreement with operator DoradoBet which is well known in Peru and in the Latam market, we’re proud to call them a partner.

Some of our company just came back from attending the Peru Gaming Show where the main topic of discussion centered on the “New Peruvian Regulation” process. Findings include Peru having two type of license, one for sports and another for casinos. Other points to arise were that there will be no set-up fees, 12% tax and laboratory certification will be required to legally launch

We at Patagonia Entertainment are always interested and happy to work alongside regulators to meet requirements. It’s all about adapting and respecting the important requirements defined by the regulators and Peru is no exception.

We are ready to partner with operators interested in the Peruvian market. A key characteristic of our platform is flexibility which enables us to work with a wide range of operators and markets. We adapt to any specifications and requirements from both the operator and the regulator.

Peru represents huge growth opportunities and we’re excited by the region’s regulations plans.