A recent report from the Auditor General highlighted OLG’s advancements in implementing strategies to maintain its competitiveness
The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) is stepping up its game to hold its ground in the competitive Ontario iGaming scene, following advice from the Auditor General’s 2022 review. This action comes as the corporation feels the heat from private companies since the province opened up its online gambling market in April 2022.
OLG Implements 32% of AG’s Suggestions, Boosts iGaming Options
The Auditor General’s 2024 report, which came out last week, shed light on OLG’s progress in adopting strategies to stay competitive. Out of the 53 recommendations in the initial review, OLG has put 32% into action and is now working on 38%. These recommendations urged OLG to bring in a wider range of iGaming products, grow its real-time gaming options, and boost its operational effectiveness, as reported by Covers.
A big part of OLG’s plan is to keep players interested by putting out new games often. From February to April 2024, OLG launched 80 new games which is about six each week. OLG has also started offering live casino games, working with Evolution AB and using a shared studio near Vancouver. These games include blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, which are streamed along with games from lottery companies in British Columbia and Quebec.
The report also mentioned OLG is thinking about joining the Canadian Poker Network. This national project could improve OLG’s poker games by allowing players to join a bigger group across many provinces. News about this are expected in spring 2025.
Ontario Lottery Balances Competition and Public Revenue
OLG spokesperson Tony Bitonti stressed that the open market has led to new ideas and better operations. He also highlighted OLG’s dedication to put the Auditor General’s recommendations into action while adjusting to a competitive scene.
OLG’s problems come from the quick rise of private operators. The province now gives licenses to 51 operators running 83 websites, which together brought in $18.4 billion in bets during the first quarter of 2024. Casino games, including slots and live table games, made up 84% of all bets.
Even with rivals around, OLG plays a key role in Ontario’s economy. It gives 45% of its online gaming money as profit to the province, while private companies give 5.7%. The corporation’s work to update its games and get users more involved shows how important it is as a public group that provides a lot of money for regional projects.
While some recommendations from the Auditor General were deemed no longer applicable, like sharing slot payout information with the public, OLG has promised to be open and responsible in how it works. Looking forward, the corporation wants to use new technology and team up with others to stay ahead and boost its place in Ontario’s gaming scene.
