Ladbrokes losing fight to enter Norwegian gaming market

Ladbrokes plc is a globally renowned leader in the worldwide land based and online bingo, betting and gaming marketplace, taking more than £14billion in stakes every year.

With its wide-ranging assortment of gambling and eGaming facilities, its prime technology and more than 15,000 expert employees it is currently seeking out development opportunities across Europe.

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Ladbrokes submitted an application for a Norwegian gambling licence back in 2004, but the application was unfortunately not permitted.

The company went on to launch a lawsuit against Norway, declaring that the country was in violation of European Commission regulations and the European Free Trade Association legislation.

The high court in Oslo have now revealed the outcome of the legal battle which confirms that gambling laws in Norway have been found to be operating within European legislation, and as such has reinforced its decision to prohibit Ladbrokes from operating inside Norwegian borders.

The announcement is said to have cost Ladbrokes around 130,000 Euros in legal costs.

A spokesperson for Ladbrokes confirmed their disappointment at the verdict and revealed they would be evaluating the decision before taking any further action, quoting:-

"We will continue to challenge state owned monopolies, which in our view are detrimental to gamblers and to society."

17th October 2008