Coral, a prominent name in the UK's betting and gaming industry, is currently owned by Entain plc.
Coral has a long-standing history, originally established in 1926. Over the years, it has evolved significantly, including a pivotal merger and subsequent acquisition that led to its current ownership.
The Evolution of Coral's Ownership
Coral's journey to its current ownership structure involves a key merger and an acquisition by a major international gaming group.
From Independent Operator to Group Member
- Early Years: Coral began its operations in 1926, building its brand as a standalone betting provider.
- Formation of Ladbrokes Coral Group: In November 2016, Coral merged with Ladbrokes, another historical betting company established in 1886. This strategic move created the Ladbrokes Coral Group, a significant entity in the UK's gambling market. This merger aimed to consolidate their market position and enhance their collective product offerings.
- Acquisition by Entain: The Ladbrokes Coral Group, including Coral, was acquired in March 2018 by Entain, which was formerly known as GVC Holdings. This acquisition placed Coral under the umbrella of one of the world's largest sports betting and gaming groups.
About Entain
Entain plc is a multinational sports betting and gaming group. It operates a diverse portfolio of established brands across online and retail channels. As the parent company, Entain oversees Coral's operations, integrating it into its broader network of gaming services.
Coral's Product Offerings
Under Entain's ownership, Coral continues to offer a comprehensive suite of gaming products to its customers. These offerings cater to a wide range of preferences, solidifying its position in the competitive market.
- Sports Betting: A core offering, allowing customers to bet on various sports events globally.
- Online Casino: Features a wide array of casino games, including slots, table games, and live dealer experiences.
- Online Poker: Provides a platform for poker enthusiasts to engage in various poker formats and tournaments.
- Online Bingo: Offers a variety of bingo games, attracting a broad audience interested in this popular pastime.
Key Ownership Milestones
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Coral Founded | 1926 | Establishment of the independent Coral brand. |
| Ladbrokes Founded | 1886 | Establishment of the independent Ladbrokes brand. |
| Ladbrokes Coral Merger | November 2016 | Coral merges with Ladbrokes to form Ladbrokes Coral Group. |
| Acquisition by Entain | March 2018 | Ladbrokes Coral Group (including Coral) acquired by Entain (formerly GVC Holdings). |
This progression highlights Coral's journey from an independent bookmaker to a key brand within a global gaming conglomerate, demonstrating the dynamic nature of the industry.
