UK bingo company has the largest market share in Spain and Italy

A UK-based online bingo company has been confirmed as having the largest market share in Spain and Italy. Tombola – which was established 50 years ago – only entered the European market two years ago. It has become one of the most recognisable bingo operators in the UK, and now creates and develops all of its online games. The company employs over 200 people in Sunderland at its Wylam Wharf base. Managing director of Tombola International PLC, Leon Thomas, said: “The online gaming and entertainment market is well established in the UK and Tombola has been ranked number one in a market including more than 300 competitors for several years.” “By comparison the market in mainland Europe is relatively new and we have climbed to the top spot in two more countries from a standing start in a very short time.” “In terms of market share Tombola also boasts more than 40% of the online market in Spain, which is more than double our nearest rival. Our Spanish office in Madrid now employs more than 20 local people from regions all over Spain who are supported by more Spanish colleagues in our UK head office. “The market in Spain is slightly different to Italy as half of the companies operating there are subsidiaries of UK operators that have expanded and export their product like Tombola. The Italian market has been operating longer and is very different as it is predominantly made up of large and long established Italian corporations. “The Italian market had been operating for several years before Tombola entered so we’re thrilled to have reached the top spot in less than two years. Tombola now attracts nearly half of the online players in Italy and almost 27% of total revenue.” The firm is continuing to grow. In the year ending April 30 2013, Tombola’s turnover increased by 22 per cent from £32.7 million to £9.9 million. At the same time, operating profit grew from £7.4 million to £8.9 million.