Evoke Reports Stable Half-Year Revenue Despite Higher Gaming Duties

Betting and gaming company evoke has reported flat revenue alongside a drop in profits for the first half of 2026, with higher gaming duties impacting overall financial performance.

Group revenue reached £887.5m, remaining essentially static compared to the £887.8m recorded in the same period last year. However, on a like-for-like basis—which excludes the impact of closing approximately 270 retail shops—revenue grew by two per cent.

Operational Performance and UK Growth

Adjusted EBITDA fell by 10 per cent year-on-year to £150.2m, though the result aligned with market expectations. The company stated that the figure reflected improved underlying profitability, which was ultimately offset by a £46m increase in gaming duties, primarily within the UK market.

Online revenue across the UK and Ireland rose by four per cent, supported by a seven per cent increase in gaming revenue driven by strong performance at William Hill. Following the end of the reporting period, evoke also secured a new partnership deal with Gaming Corps in July.

Leadership Response and Strategic Takeover

The first half demonstrated the resilience of the business in a significantly more challenging operating environment following substantial increases in gaming duties introduced across some of our core markets, most notably in the UK,

said Per Widerström, chief executive of evoke.

We responded decisively, focusing on the areas within our control. As a result of the significant operational improvements we have implemented across the business in recent years, coupled with the successful mitigation of a meaningful proportion of the increased duty costs, we have been able to maintain operational momentum, deliver like-for-like revenue growth and protect profitability and cash generation.

Addressing the company's broader corporate outlook following a board strategic review, Widerström added:

In June we announced the recommended acquisition of evoke by Bally's Intralot. The board unanimously concluded that the transaction represents the most attractive and deliverable outcome for shareholders, while providing a stronger long-term capital structure for the business.

Until completion, our priorities remain unchanged. We continue to focus on serving our customers, supporting our colleagues, maintaining disciplined execution and delivering strong cash generation.

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3. Evoke in £225 Million Takeover Talks with Bally’s Intralot