Microgaming Launches Italian Poker Network

Isle of Man provider joins the dedicated Italian online poker market Online gambling software provider Microgaming has announced the launch of its new poker network dedicated to the Italian online gaming market. Having gained AAMS approval and completed a thorough beta testing period successfully, the network is now fully live, offering Italian players access to Microgaming's world class poker tournament games. The software company has worked in close collaboration with local Italian parties to ensure that its back-office systems and support services have been appropriately customised to cater for the Italian market. The speed at which Microgaming can integrate its software product with operator systems is further testament to the company's technological agility. This, together with Microgaming's commitment to ensuring they are fully compliant with all Italian regulatory standards, has proved an appealing prospect for operators. Ladbrokes is the first operator to join the new network. Negotiations are underway with a number of other operators too, who are keen to partner with Microgaming as a means of entering or solidifying their position in the rapidly growing Italian market. Mattia Nicelli, CEO, Ladbrokes Italia, said this week: “Microgaming has a proven track record in online poker, as it hosts the most established poker network. Our decision to join its Italian Network is a strategic move that we believe will be of great benefit to our players. "Drawing on its wealth of global and local expertise, together with its technological prowess, Microgaming has adapted its services in a way that caters to our specific needs, as we compete in the competitive Italian market. We are confident that this partnership will prove mutually beneficial and that Microgaming's new venture targeting the Italian market will emulate the success it has experienced around the world.” Roger Raatgever, CEO, Microgaming, commemted: “The launch of Microgaming's Italian Poker Network is another example of Microgaming bringing the highest global standards to local markets. We have worked tirelessly to ensure that the new poker network is fit for purpose to meet the needs of the Italian player-base, as well as the Italian regulatory standards. "The initial offering of poker tournament games to the network's player community represents a solid foundation upon which to build, and Microgaming is currently working within regulatory parameters to develop the poker games portfolio further. “With the Italian market set to become increasingly open and competitive in the months to come, we are confident that we have the right resources and alliances to support our operators and help them to succeed. Italy is an important region for the future of gaming in Europe, as it has set the standard for other countries wishing to introduce gaming regulations; it is a crucial gateway for further EU expansion. "We remain committed to the Italian market and are keen to play our part in helping our licensees take full advantage of the opportunities that lie therein, and beyond.”