BoscaSports’ UK acquisition signals confidence in retail and racing betting

(AsiaGameHub) –   Betting technology company BoscaSports has broadened its UK capabilities through an acquisition, finalizing terms to acquire video streaming firm 2DB.

The Irish firm is specifically focusing on the retail betting sector, noting that the transaction will further solidify its position as a technology provider to licensed betting offices (LBOs).

The financial details of the acquisition, such as the purchase price, remain unconfirmed. Nevertheless, Allied Irish Bank (AIB) is backing the move with a loan facility.

BoscaSports claims the deal will double its workforce while enhancing its retail and online capabilities. The Irish Times, however, reported that the merged entity is expected to generate €4m (£3.4m) in revenue.

“This acquisition is a transformative move for BoscaSports,” said Eugenee Mitchell, the firm’s Chief Executive Officer. 

“Combining our capabilities with 2DB’s integrated video streaming and data solutions greatly strengthens our technology infrastructure, our distribution network, and the value we can offer to racecourses, operators, and bettors globally.

“We take pride in being an Irish tech success story and are thankful for the support from AIB and RMG as we enter our next growth phase.”

Two sectors at a crossroads

BoscaSports already has a significant presence in the UK retail betting sector. Key partners of the company include Flutter Entertainment’s Paddy Power, the UK Tote Group, William Hill and Britbet.

The company is also a partner to numerous racecourses, with its retail displays used at 86 different tracks across the UK and Ireland. Prominent UK partner tracks include the iconic Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire.

“We’re thrilled to announce that 2DB has been acquired by BoyleSports,” said 2DB Managing Director, Steve Boffo. “This is an ideal cultural and strategic fit, and we’re prepared to immediately deliver for our team and customers.”

Yet, both British retail betting and horse racing find themselves in a unique and potentially fragile position in 2026.

Regarding the former, there have been steady decreases in UK retail betting participation and gross gaming yield over recent years as more individuals shift to online options.

For instance, UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) data shows a 2% drop in retail GGY in 2025. There are also ongoing rumors of shop closures, with Paddy Power, one of BoscaSports’ clients, confirming the closure of 257 UK and Irish shops last year.

Racing, on the other hand, has faced challenges with fan engagement and attendance for some time, along with the sport’s governing body. As the sport’s finances remain strained, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) continues to voice dissatisfaction with the government’s choice to maintain the Horseracing Betting Levy at 10%.

Nonetheless, retail betting and horse racing received some relief in last year’s government budget. Horse racing was completely excluded from the tax increases announced by Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer, while retail betting will be exempt from the rise in General Betting Duty from 15% to 25% next year.

There will certainly be ripple effects from the doubling of online gaming duty to 40%, which has already manifested in the cancellation of racing betting sponsorships, rumors of additional shop closures, and even sales – such as that of William Hill owner evoke.

Still, AIB’s support for BoscaSports’ acquisition of a UK betting tech brand might indicate that some analysts perceive a ray of hope for both the British and Irish retail betting market and horse racing sectors.

“At AIB, we are proud to back Ireland’s homegrown technology companies as they expand globally,” said Pat Horgan, AIB’s Head of Business Banking – Capital Markets.

“Their innovation fuels economic growth, creates high-value jobs, and reinforces Ireland’s status as a top global technology hub. 

“Bosca Technologies embodies this ambition, showing how cutting-edge innovation, strong strategic partnerships, and a global focus can achieve success on the international stage.”