In January, Sweden’s Cherryföretagen (Cherry) launched one of biggest daily draws through Eurolotto.com and marketed it to much of Europe. It was also marketed in Norway and broadcasted throughout the Norwegian country through Viasat 4. It seems now that Norway has had a change of heart as Norwegian authorities have now ordered Cherry to cease marketing and offering its EuroLotto.com product to Norwegian citizens.
EuroLotto.com is marketed through EoroSlots Ltd. and is a European lottery offered in 23 different languages. The Lottery license is issued by the Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LGA) of Malta and the daily draw is physically monitored by the LGA on Malta.
In a press release, Cherry’s CEO Gunnar Lind addressed the issue:
“We believe that The Norwegian Gaming and Foundation Authority’s claims are inaccurate, both because they are addressing Cherryföretagen AB the claim, and also and according to Cherryföretagens view, the claims are contrary to EC (EEA) -legislation, which is superior to Norwegian law. EuroSlots Ltd., a subsidiary of Cherryföretagen AB, conducts licensed lottery in Europe out of Malta, for the whole European market. Cherryföretagen AB will evaluate The Norwegian Gaming and Foundation Authority’s claim, but will most likely appeal the decision.” says Gunnar Lind, Cherryföretagen AB CEO.
It will be interesting to see how the EC will weigh in on this dispute. Perhaps the real victims in this dispute are the members of the Norwegian Special Olympics which was supposed to be receiving a portion of the profits from the Eurolotto.com daily draw.
