Evoke-owned 888 to re-enter Dutch market with ComeOn Group

Evoke has agreed a new strategic partnership with ComeOn Group that will enable its 888 brand to return to the Dutch online gambling market.

Under the arrangement, ComeOn Group will operate the 888 brand in the Netherlands. The Dutch-facing 888.nl website will run under a local licence, offering both online casino and sports betting to players.

Casino content will include a wide range of slots, exclusive games and live casino tables. In addition, the online sportsbook will offer betting options across a range of sports.

“888 is an incredibly strong global brand,” Evoke Director of Corporate Development Davide Marchisio said. “Partnering with a world-class operator gives us the opportunity to provide the amazing 888 experience to our Dutch fans.

“We are excited about launching 888 to Dutch customers and further expanding in regulated markets with a high-impact, low-capital partnership aligned to Evoke’s strategy.”

ComeOn Group CEO Juergen Reutter added: “Evoke is one of the biggest betting and gaming companies in our industry. We are honoured to be entrusted with the operation of 888.

“Our proprietary technology, strong market expertise and commitment to responsible gaming will ensure that Dutch players enjoy a best-in-class experience with the 888 brand.”

888 returns to Dutch market after four-year absence

The link-up with ComeOn Group will see 888 return to the Netherlands after almost four years away.

In October 2021, 888 announced it would begin blocking Dutch players. This coincided with the launch of the country’s regulated online market, which officially opened on 1 October 2021.

888 had been active in the Netherlands for several years before regulation. When it stepped back from the market, 888 said Dutch operations accounted for approximately 3% of overall revenue.

Incidentally, further changes to regulation in the Netherlands have led to other operators also exiting the market. LiveScore Bet, which was among the first 10 entrants to the iGaming market, confirmed its departure in November 2024. Flutter Entertainment’s Tombola has also withdrawn. 

Among the changes that have caused disruption to the market were rises in tax. As of 1 January this year, tax on gross gaming revenue increased from 30.5% to 34.2%. Next year, the rate will rise again, to 37.8%.

Evoke expects revenue rise in Q2

Confirmation of the new deal comes after Evoke published a trading update, in which it said it anticipates reporting a 5% year-on-year rise in revenue during Q2.

The operator’s online business was its primary growth area, with revenue rising 6%. Evoke also referenced a positive performance by its retail sector, which returned to growth during the quarter.

As for H1, group revenue is forecast to be 3% higher year-on-year.