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Allywn UK has just completed the largest technology upgrade in the global lottery industry after successfully transitioning its National Lottery operations to Scientific Games’ Momentum ecosystem.
This significant change involved integrating over 30 new systems and replacing the outdated gaming system from 2009. With Momentum now supporting operations at 43,500 retail locations across the UK, this upgrade is a crucial step in modernizing the National Lottery, which was one of Allwyn’s core missions when it won the lottery contract in 2024.
Upgrades Began in August
As part of this transformation, Allwyn has converted all retailer terminals to the new software, setting the stage for a full rollout of Scientific Games’ WAVE terminals that was scheduled for August.
The WAVE upgrade took place from August 2 to 4, during which the National Lottery systems temporarily shut down to facilitate the transition. Scientific Games executed the switch overnight, allowing nearly all retailers to resume ticket sales shortly after.
Following the upgrade, Allwyn and Scientific Games collaborated to provide additional technical support to remaining retailers, ensuring a smooth transition for everyone involved.
Powered by Scientific Games’ central lottery gaming system, the Momentum ecosystem includes various value-added products, such as the Gem suite of enterprise applications, Salesforce tools, and claims and licensing solutions.
Momentum also supports lottery operations in regions across North America, Europe, and Oceania, further demonstrating its capabilities on a global scale.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver the National Lottery that the UK deserves,” Allwyn CEO Andria Vidler said of the shift.
“We’ve made unprecedented and much-needed changes. These are moving us closer to achieving our vision for the National Lottery, restoring its magic and significantly increasing its positive impact on lives across the UK.”
Multiple Changes Planned for Future
The recent tech upgrade is only the beginning of Allwyn’s ambitious plans for the National Lottery. Alongside this enhancement, the company is set to revamp the lottery’s digital offerings, with new features and improvements expected to roll out soon.
To support these initiatives, Scientific Games has pledged its assistance. Earlier in 2024, as Allwyn took over the lottery, the supplier established a new logistics facility in Warrington, UK, designed to better serve National Lottery retailers.
“We continue to be impressed with the smooth execution of this large-scale, collaborative project with Allwyn UK,” Scientific Games CEO Patrick McHugh said.
“A network of more than 43,000 terminals was switched from the legacy system to the new Scientific Games systems, with retailers nationally selling two hours ahead of the planned cut-over schedule.
“Our global technology teams are inspired as we have a number of systems conversions actively under way.”
Allwyn’s Vidler added: “These major upgrades will allow us to deliver on our promise to bring new, exciting games; a better player experience; and our commitment to double returns to good causes by the end of the 10-year licence.
“We’re very grateful to our players, our retailers and our partners, stakeholders and colleagues for their ongoing support. We look forward to working with Scientific Games to deliver the further upgrades to the National Lottery’s digital channels.”
Allywn Delays Might Still Face Regulatory Action
Despite Allwyn’s ongoing commitment to upgrades, the company could face penalties due to delays in this process. The Gambling Commission in Great Britain is reportedly considering regulatory action, citing concerns that Allwyn has not fulfilled certain promises made during its successful bid for the fourth National Lottery licence.
One notable promise includes reducing ticket prices for National Lottery draws from £2 to £1, a change that has yet to be put into effect. Allwyn had assured this adjustment would happen before securing the licence, but the delay has raised red flags.
In a statement issued to iGB in July, Allwyn acknowledged the setback, stating, “Due to the delay to the technical cutover, we have missed a contractual milestone in the Enabling Agreement.
“We continue to work together with the Gambling Commission on the impact of this missed milestone under the terms of the Enabling Agreement. The Gambling Commission is still investigating what, if any, enforcement action might be taken against Allwyn in relation to the missed milestone.”
Source: iGB
