ESG Summary

Transparency			ProgressPlay Group scores a 2 for moderate transparency. While the company provides some details about its operations and achievements, key aspects such as governance practices and company values lack clarity.
ESG Strategy			The company receives a score of 2 for its undisclosed ESG strategy. The absence of a formal strategy raises concerns about its commitment to sustainability and social impact.
Sanctions			ProgressPlay’s score is 2, reflecting past regulatory breaches and fines. Strengthening compliance measures is crucial to avoid future controversies.
3rd Party Rating			ProgressPlay receives score of 4 and has a positive public rating on Glassdoor, indicating favorable employee experiences. However, specific ESG-related ratings are not readily available.

Company Overview

About the Company

ProgressPlay, founded in 2012 and based in St. Julians, Malta, is a leading provider of high-quality turnkey solutions for online casinos and sportsbooks. The company offers standalone licensee, full white label, and customizable turnkey solutions tailored to meet the needs of its clients. Led by CEO Itai Lowenstein, COO Amnon Cohen, and CFO Efrat Kovalio, ProgressPlay aims to deliver cutting-edge gaming platforms that can be fully tailored to fit all customers’ needs. Their services include Operations, CRM, Gambling licenses, Platform, Player Management, Payment Processing, and Customer Care services, designed to maximize the success of clients’ brands.

ProgressPlay’s Real Money gaming platform is accessible on all devices, allowing players to access high-quality casino and sports content from anywhere with an internet connection. The company places a strong emphasis on security and privacy, holding licenses from the UK Gambling Commission, Malta Gaming Authority, and the Ireland National Excise Licence Office. This commitment to regulatory compliance ensures players can enjoy a safe and reliable gaming experience. With over a decade of experience in the industry, ProgressPlay continues to be a trusted partner for online gaming operators seeking innovative and reliable solutions for their businesses.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Financial Performance Indicators:

• Total Revenue: No data available at this time.
• Net Income: No data available at this time.

As of the current information available, specific financial data such as total revenue and net income for ProgressPlay is not disclosed publicly. This may be due to the company’s status as a privately held entity, where financial details are not required to be reported publicly.

ESG Overview

In this section, we explore the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices of Progress play. Understanding a company’s ESG commitments is crucial for investors, stakeholders, and the general public to assess its impact on the environment, society, and governance structures. We delve into Progress play’s initiatives, strategies, and performance in these key areas, shedding light on its sustainability efforts and social responsibility. For a comprehensive guide on ESG in the iGaming industry, you can visit Better World Casinos – Understanding ESG and iGaming.

Environmental Impact

ProgressPlay does not provide information regarding its environmental impact, such as emissions, carbon offsetting, or renewable energy use. Details on emissions scope, suppliers’ environmental practices, or other initiatives are also not available. Continued monitoring is advised to track any future developments in this area. For a deeper dive into understanding the importance of environmental sustainability in the iGaming industry, you can visit Better World Casinos – ESG and the Environment.

Findings:

• Emissions: No data available on emissions. ProgressPlay has not disclosed information on emissions scope, supplier practices, or specific initiatives related to reducing carbon footprint.
• Targets & Initiatives: There is no information on specific environmental targets or initiatives related to sustainability efforts.

Social Performance

Internal

• Glassdoor Rating: ProgressPlay’s management has received mixed reviews on Glassdoor, with employees citing issues such as micromanagement, lack of experience, and poor communication. Overall Glassdoor Rating: 3.1 out of 5 stars.

External

• ProgressPlay primarily serves online casino operators as a Business-to-Business (B2B) provider. While client trust and partnerships are indicated positively, there is a lack of information on philanthropic activities or explicit support for social causes.

Responsible Gambling Measures

• ProgressPlay has developed proprietary Responsible Gambling software, demonstrating its commitment to player well-being. The company has a dedicated multidisciplinary Responsible Gambling Team and a “Responsible Gaming Monitoring Committee.”

Community Engagement

• No specific details are available regarding ProgressPlay’s community engagement initiatives or programs.

Responsible Marketing

• ProgressPlay’s approach to responsible marketing practices is not explicitly outlined in available information.

ProgressPlay’s environmental performance lacks detailed information regarding its practices such as carbon offsetting, renewable energy use, and emissions scope. The absence of such data makes it challenging to assess the company’s environmental impact comprehensively. To improve transparency and accountability, ProgressPlay could consider providing more detailed reports on its emissions, initiatives to reduce carbon footprint, and any targets set for environmental sustainability. As new information becomes available, continued monitoring of ProgressPlay’s environmental practices is recommended for a more thorough understanding of its environmental impact and efforts towards sustainability. For insights into ProgressPlay’s social initiatives and responsible gaming practices, you can visit Better World Casinos – ESG and Social Responsibility.

Governance and Compliance

For any organization, governance forms the backbone of its operations, shaping its transparency, integrity, and regulatory compliance. It encompasses the structures and processes through which companies are directed and controlled. To delve deeper into the governance practices within the iGaming industry, visit Better World Casinos – ESG and Governance.

Sanctions, Controversies, and Concerns

ProgressPlay faced regulatory scrutiny and fines from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) in May 2022 for significant violations of licensing conditions related to anti-money laundering (AML) measures and social responsibility. The UKGC imposed a fine of £175,718 on ProgressPlay Limited for breaches of specific license conditions and social responsibility codes following an investigation. The investigation, initiated under Section 116 of the Gambling Act 2005, found that ProgressPlay failed to comply with several key regulations:

• Prevention of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing: ProgressPlay breached Paragraphs 2 and 3 of Licence Condition 12.1.1, which require operators to comply with AML regulations.
• Compliance with Foreign Jurisdiction Regulations: The company also failed to adhere to Licence Condition 12.1.2, which mandates compliance with the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds Regulations 2017 for operators based in foreign jurisdictions.
• Customer Interaction and Social Responsibility: ProgressPlay violated Paragraphs 1(a), (b), and (c) and 2 of Social Responsibility Code Provision 3.4.1, which directs licensees to interact with customers to minimize gambling-related harms. They did not consider Ordinary Code Provision 3.4.2, which outlines best practices such as keeping records of customer interactions.

The Commission’s decision to fine ProgressPlay also considered factors such as repeated breaches due to the absence of internal controls and procedures. However, mitigating factors included ProgressPlay’s cooperation with the investigation and transparency in acknowledging the extent of the breaches. The regulatory settlement included:

• A payment of £175,718 in lieu of a financial penalty and divestment, directed towards the National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms.
• Agreement to the publication of a statement of facts related to the case.
• Payment of £12,466.35 towards the UKGC’s costs of investigating the matter.

This significant regulatory action underscores the importance of stringent compliance with AML and social responsibility regulations within the online gaming industry. It also highlights the UKGC’s commitment to enforcing these standards to protect consumers and reduce gambling-related harms.

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

ProgressPlay Group contributes to several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aligning its operations with broader global sustainability objectives:

	Through responsible gambling practices and support systems, ProgressPlay promotes the well-being of its customers.
	The company, as a major player in the gaming solutions market, contributes to decent work and economic growth within the industry.

Awards and Ratings

EGR Awards Shortlisting

ProgressPlay has been shortlisted for multiple categories at the highly prestigious EGR B2B Awards for the second consecutive year. The EGR B2B Awards 2023 recognizes outstanding service providers in the online gaming industry across various disciplines. The company’s ambitious total rebuild of its technology stack, with a focus on Responsible Gambling automation and tools, has garnered attention from EGR judges. The new iGaming platform, launched at ICE2023 in London, provides operators with powerful tools for optimizing online casino performance, earning ProgressPlay a spot on the shortlist.

Recognition for White-Label Solutions

ProgressPlay was acknowledged as one of the world’s most competitive ‘White-Label Partners’ by EGR judges last year. The new technology stack, launched at ICE2023, has attracted the judges’ attention again this year. The platform offers an AI-driven UI/UX, a platform and game aggregator, value-added services, and Licensee services. These upgrades were recognized by EGR B2B Awards judges, placing ProgressPlay among the shortlisted companies.

Innovative AI Technology at SiGMA Europe

ProgressPlay is set to unveil its cutting-edge AI technology at SiGMA Europe, a significant milestone in its global marketing efforts. This proprietary software is poised to revolutionize how the company approaches responsible gambling, enhancing stakeholder engagement and driving growth. The AI-driven solutions enable real-time player interaction and assessment against predefined criteria, earning ProgressPlay recognition as an EGR awards shortlisted company.

Harnessing AI for Responsible Gambling

Revolutionary Approach

ProgressPlay’s AI-driven solutions are redefining responsible gambling practices in the industry. The company’s adoption of AI technology allows for real-time player recognition and evaluation against specific criteria. This sophisticated system enhances player management and improves overall player experience significantly.

Enhanced Player Experience

Through AI algorithms, ProgressPlay delivers a personalized and tailored gaming experience to users. The system considers player behaviors and preferences, offering customized recommendations and incentives. This personalized approach boosts player engagement and satisfaction.

Real-Time Recognition and Assessment

The AI platform enables ProgressPlay to recognize players in real-time and assess their behavior against responsible gambling standards. By scoring players on factors like spending patterns and frequency of play, the company can proactively intervene when necessary. This proactive approach ensures a safe and responsible gaming environment while providing support to at-risk players.

Recognition in Industry Awards

Prestigious Shortlisting

ProgressPlay’s innovative AI-driven approach to responsible gambling has earned it a spot on the shortlist for the prestigious EGR awards. This recognition highlights the impact of ProgressPlay’s AI solutions on player management and the broader gaming landscape.

As ProgressPlay prepares to showcase its AI advancements at SiGMA Europe, its commitment to responsible gambling and player satisfaction remains paramount. The company’s AI-powered technology is driving positive changes in player management and engagement, setting a new standard for innovation in the iGaming industry.

Conclusion

Overall Summary and Verdict

ProgressPlay Group, a prominent player in the iGaming industry, demonstrates commendable commitment to sustainability, responsible gaming, and transparency. The company’s innovative AI-driven approach to responsible gambling is noteworthy, and its contributions to decent work and economic growth are recognized. However, there are areas where ProgressPlay could enhance its sustainability efforts, particularly in terms of transparency regarding its ESG strategy and environmental practices. The company’s recent regulatory breaches and fines highlight the importance of improving compliance and governance measures.

• Transparency: ProgressPlay Group scores a 2 for moderate transparency. While the company provides some details about its operations and achievements, key aspects such as governance practices and company values lack clarity.
• ESG Strategy: The company receives a score of 2 for its undisclosed ESG strategy. The absence of a formal strategy raises concerns about its commitment to sustainability and social impact.
• Sanctions and Controversies: ProgressPlay’s score is 2, reflecting past regulatory breaches and fines. Strengthening compliance measures is crucial to avoid future controversies.
• Public Ratings: ProgressPlay receives score of 4 and has a positive public rating on Glassdoor, indicating favorable employee experiences. However, specific ESG-related ratings are not readily available.

Verdict & BWC Sustainability Scorecard

Final Score: 2.5 / 5 (Acceptable – we think you deserve better)

Strengths:

• Transparency: Provides some information about services and licenses.
• Public Reputation: Positive Glassdoor ratings reflect a favorable perception among employees.

Areas for Improvement:

• ESG Strategy: Developing and sharing an ESG strategy.
• Sanctions and Compliance: Strengthening regulatory compliance measures.
• Public Reputation: Enhancing public ratings and receiving more awards could further improve this score.

ProgressPlay Group is on the path toward sustainable and responsible gaming practices. Continued efforts in compliance, transparency enhancement, and developing a formal ESG strategy will be essential for ProgressPlay to solidify its position as a leader in the industry.