National Lottery operator changes for first time in 30 years

A total of £92bn in prizes has been awarded to players since Camelot began operating the lottery in 1994

The National Lottery operator has changed for the first time in 30 years.

Camelot has run the lottery from its base in Watford since the game's launch in 1994, but its licence ended on Wednesday.

A 10-year licence has been given to new operator Allwyn, which will continue to oversee the draw from the former Camelot offices in Tolpits Lane.

The company said it would "strengthen the bond between The National Lottery and consumers".

Justin King, chair of Allwyn UK said: "We are thrilled to become the new operator of The National Lottery.

"Over the next 10 years, our commitment is to increase returns to National Lottery-funded projects and build a legacy of change for good."

Andria Vidler, chief executive officer of Allwyn UK, said 2024 was a significant year for the lottery.

"We want the birthday year, and the decade that follows, to be full of more unmissable and unforgettable moments for more people in more ways," she said.

Allwyn will continue to operate from the former Camelot offices in Watford

Since beginning in 1994, the National Lottery has awarded £92bn to players, creating over 7,000 millionaires and multi-millionaires.

In 2019 Camelot Group faced competing bids to continue operating the lottery.

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International operator Allwyn Entertainment, owned by Czech oil and gas tycoon Karel Komarek, was awarded the franchise in 2022.

Later that year the European group acquired Camelot UK Lotteries for an undisclosed amount.

Camelot continued to operate The National Lottery until the end of its licence.

Allwyn has already announced a 50% increase in the number of team members to support retailers

Stuart Andrew, minister for sport, gambling and civil society, said the lottery would "continue to have a positive impact on the lives of millions".

He said: "Allwyn's new licence will see The National Lottery fund even more important initiatives through its commitment to raising millions more pounds for good causes."

The new operator said it would "build on the success of the last three decades" to continue to fund projects, award prize money and support retailers.